The best countries for a first international trip?

Serbia (Recommended for independent travel): Chinese passport holders are visa-exempt. The locals are friendly, and the safety level is high. I walked around the streets at 2-3 a.m. and, aside from a drunk guy greeting me from across the street, there were no uncomfortable incidents. Public transportation is fairly complete. The cost of living is higher than in China but lower than in Western Europe. The pace of life is relaxed, and it's worth a visit.

Egypt (Not recommended for independent travel): Chinese passport holders can get a visa on arrival. The locals are generally friendly, and although serious crimes are rare, petty theft, scams, and deception are unavoidable. Tourists are often seen as easy targets. Public transportation is not well-developed. While the attractions are worth visiting and the cost of living is low, it’s advisable to hire a local guide or join a tour group. Visiting the pyramids is a must in one’s lifetime, and the Red Sea won't disappoint either.

Japan (Recommended for independent travel): Getting an electronic visa is easy. I traveled alone, and public transportation is extremely well-developed. I didn’t take a single taxi, relying on the subway in Tokyo and buses in Kyoto. The locals are friendly. The cost of living is higher than in China but not overly expensive. Japan is a place I would visit again and again—the experience is excellent.

Singapore (Recommended for independent travel): Applying for an electronic visa is straightforward. Singapore is small, and a 3-5 day visit is enough. The city center feels like Shanghai, and Universal Studios is not very big. Communication is easy, and safety is high. Public transportation is efficient.

United Kingdom (Recommended for independent travel): After living in the UK for five years, I’ve become a bit tired of it. Generally safe, but avoid South Asian neighborhoods at night and be cautious of pickpockets. Public transportation is well-developed, and taxis are convenient. London is definitely a place worth stopping by.

Portugal (Recommended for independent travel): I traveled solo, and the scenery is beautiful. I absolutely love Porto. The cost of living is relatively low, not much higher than in China. The locals are friendly, and safety is good. I felt safe walking around at night. Taxis are cheap and convenient. Definitely recommended!

Finland (Recommended for independent travel): As a Southerner, I almost froze to death going there in winter! It’s beautiful but very cold, with a high cost of living. The climate is harsh (for me), and there aren’t that many activities. A day out typically requires only half a day outdoors. However, dog sledding is absolutely worth it, and the ski resorts are great too. Recommended for these activities.

Norway (Recommended for independent travel): Cold! But stunningly beautiful! Whale watching is worth it. The cost of living is high, and the people, like many in Northern Europe, are somewhat distant but not unfriendly. Seeing the fjord landscapes I learned about in geography class with my own eyes made the trip worthwhile.

Italy (Recommended for independent travel): Beware of pickpockets, which applies to all of Western Europe. Rome, Venice, Florence…these places need no introduction. You must visit at least once in your lifetime. Highly recommended!

Germany (Recommended for independent travel): A bit boring? Generally safe, with a well-developed public transportation system. For me, nothing stood out much except for Neuschwanstein Castle. Worth a visit.

France (Recommended for independent travel): Shopping at Galeries Lafayette and Printemps will leave you satisfied. They even have a tax refund service for Chinese visitors. Seeing the Mona Lisa at the Louvre should also be on your bucket list.