People mistake nationalism for love of place. Nationalism is dedication to an ideology, a righteousness, a patriotism that declares one nation better than others. Loving a place has nothing to do with hierarchy or competition.
What determines place? Community perhaps, nature, a sense of belonging, commitment to the people who live with you and by you, commitment to be a good steward to the earth that supports you. I think of the astonishing poem by David Whyte. I have this particular verse painted on my kitchen wall.