Friendly Irish

Ireland is the world's friendliest country, according to a survey drawn up by the Lonely Planet travel guide group.

Ireland beat the US and Malawi as the friendliest travel destination in Lonely Planet's 2008 Bluelist.

Irish people have "a deliciously dark sense of humour" and "a welcoming attitude towards strangers," Lonely Planet said.

"The famous ability of the Irish to find craic or fun times with convivial company, in boom or bust times means you're always in for a treat," the survey added.