Country Introductions

Country Introductions

Algeria

The People's Democratic Republic of Algeria lies on the Mediterranean in Northwest Africa. Algeria is the largest country in the Mediterranean. The Algerian Sahara region extends south from the Saharan Atlas for 1,500 kilometers and is one of the popular destinations in Algeria. Algiers, nicknamed “Algiers the White” due to the lustrous white structures one sees from the sea, is the location of one of its more important districts, the Casbah. Casbah, comes from the word qasba meaning citadel, it rises to about 400 feet above the sea. In the late 19th century, “Casbah” made its way into the English Lexicon from the French language.

Argentina

The Argentine Republic, located in the Southern part of South America, is the second largest country in the South American region. Covered in diverse landscapes from the northern tropical climates to the cold southern tundras. A portion of the Iguaçu Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, can be found in the north-eastern part of the country. Buenos Aires (Fair Winds or Good Air) is the capital and largest city of Argentina. Buenos Aires, a politically autonomous city, has under the Capital Federal law recognized legal civil partnerships, giving rise to the one of the largest homosexual populations in South America.

Armenia

The Republic of Armenia, situated in Southwestern Asia, is widely considered to be the first christian country. Constant reminders of this fact is evidenced by the numerous monasteries found all across this beautiful country. The very hospitable people of this landlocked nation live in highland continental conditions with hot summers and cold winters. In the capital and largest city Yerevan, among the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the globe, one can see much of the city bearing a color theme, pink. In the Soviet years of reconstruction using pink stones for building brought upon the name “Pink City”.

Australia

The Commonwealth of Australia, the world's smallest continent, sits in the middle of two great oceans, the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean. It is renowned all over the world for its many natural wonders, one of a kind mix of flora and fauna and modern population centers in the eastern and southeastern coasts. Canberra, the capital and largest inland city of Australia, is an entirely purpose-built city. It was designed by Walter Burley Griffin, who won the international design competition held by Australia back in 1911. Canberra’s name comes from the Aboriginal word Kamberra meaning ‘meeting place’.

Austria

The Republic of Austria, a country smaller than the US state of Maine is a country with 75% mountainous terrain and only 25% low lying regions. It shares a title with Switzerland as the winter sports capital of Europe. A distinction from of its neighbor Switzerland having grand ski resorts, Austria's resorts pride themselves for being more cozy locations to do winter sports activity. Vienna (German: Wien), the capital and largest city of Austria, ranked first among over 100 countries studied for the quality of life of its population. It is also a city designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Azerbaijan

The Republic of Azerbaijan, largely populated by about 93.4% Muslims, is a mountainous country located in Southwestern Asia. Azerbaijani or Azeri is spoken by about 90.3% of the inhabitants with Russian at 3%, Armenian at 2% and others. Azerbaijan's climate has eight of the eleven Earth climate patterns listed in the Köppen climate classification but is simply classed as dry, semiarid steppe. Baku, the capital and the largest city of Azerbaijan, is the home of the largest port in all of Azerbaijan and in the Caucasus region. Baku is the birthplace of the famous chess champion Garry Kasparov.

Belarus

The Republic of Belarus, a country covered with over a third by forest, is located in Eastern Europe, east of Poland. Belarusian and Russian are the two official languages the reason being due to the large Belarusian population of about 81.2% and the Russian ethnic group of about 11.4%. Minsk, the capital and largest city in Belarus, is the major cultural centre of Belarus, with 11 theatres, 16 museums, 20 cinemas and 139 libraries. A Soviet astronomer by the name of Nikolai Stepanovich Chernykh had named a minor planet after the city, 3012 Minsk, discovered in 1979.

Belgium

The Kingdom of Belgium, the seat of both the European Union and NATO, is a country located in western Europe. Belgium has been a long time participant in the international community and is a member of the three Benelux (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg) countries. This constitutional monarchy is like a hub in western Europe with the City of Brussels in close proximity to most of western Europe's capitals to about 1,000 km. There are three official languages, Dutch, French and German. The climate is temperate, with mild winters and cool summers.

Brazil

The Federative Republic of Brazil, the only Portuguese-speaking nation in the Americas, is located in Eastern South America. Brazil being the largest country in South America and having a Portuguese national identity, sets

it apart from the other Spanish-speaking nations in the region. One aspect of the national culture that is world famous is their reverence and fervor for the sport of soccer. Evidenced by Brazil being the host nation of the 2014 FIFA World Cup along with Brasília, the capital city, being one of the host cities of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The climate is mostly tropical but temperate in south.

Bulgaria

The Republic of Bulgaria, a key strategic location to land routes from Europe to the Middle East and Asia, is located in the Balkan region in southeastern Europe on the Black Sea. The official language is Bulgarian, spoken by about 84.5% of the population. The language is quite difficult so at least remember da is yes and ne is no. Keep in mind as well that Bulgarians nod for no and shake their heads for yes. Sofia, the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, is home to the Boyana Church, a UNESCO world heritage site, located in the fringes of the city in the Boyana area.

Canada

Canada, a country occupying most of northern North America, is the second largest country in the world and the largest in North America. Canada, comes from a St. Lawrence Iroquoian word “kanata” that means "village" or "settlement". Canucks have 4 cultural influences British, French, American and the “First Nations” people along with the immigrant populations giving them their own unique multicultural blend. English and French are the two official languages. Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is bilingual with most of the city speaking both English and French. The city was picked by Queen Victoria's to be the capital of the country in 1857.

Chile

The Republic of Chile, holding strategic sea lanes between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, is located in southern South America sandwiched between the mountains of the Andes and the Pacific Ocean. The Chilean official language is Spanish but other languages include Mapudungun, Quechua, Rapa Nui, German and English. Santiago is Chile's capital and largest city. It is one of the few locations in the world where one can, because of proximity, gain access to both winter sports and summer activities in the same day, via the Andes and the long coastline on the South Pacific Ocean.

China

The People's Republic of China, the country with the world's largest population, is located in Eastern Asia. The Chinese use Standard Mandarin as the official language which is based on the Putonghua dialect. Because of its vastness and location, the climate is extremely diverse ranging from tropical in the south to subarctic in the north. The capital Beijing is only second in terms of size but it is the seat of Chinese culture, politics and education. The city is a magnificent blend of the old and the new, from the old Forbidden City to the new stadiums of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games.

Colombia

The Republic of Colombia, located in northwestern South America, is the only South American country with coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and North Pacific Ocean. This South American nation was named after Christopher Columbus and even though he never visited any part of the territory now held by Columbia, on his 4th voyage, he set foot on what was then Colombian land, “Panama”. Columbians enjoy a tropical climate along the coast and eastern plains and cooler temperatures in the highlands. The capital city of Columbia is Bogotá, a busy mix of the old and the new with many modern buildings mixed in with the old structures.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, a Central European nation with a temperate climate, is the country in Europe where one can find a strategically located traditional military corridor called the Moravian Gate. The inhabitants of the Czech Republic or Czechia are called Czechs or Czechians and they speak the official language Czech. In the heart of Prague, the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, lies its beautiful historic center listed among the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Prague was nicknamed "city of a hundred spires" back in the early 19th century but nowadays, the city may have over 500.

Denmark

Denmark, a country located in the Scandinavian region in Northern Europe, is a one of the three members of the Kingdom of Denmark along with the Faroe Islands and Greenland. Denmark has long exercised its authority over the Danish straits, a strategic location in relation to the Baltic Sea. This constitutional monarchy's reigning monarch is her Majesty Queen Margrethe Alexandrine Þórhildur Ingrid. Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II resides in Copenhagen, the capital and largest city of Denmark, at the Amalienborg Royal Palace. The city has been classed as one of the most livable and environment friendly cities in Northern Europe.

Ecuador

The Republic of Ecuador, located in Northwestern South America, is the country where one can find the highest active volcano in the world, Cotopaxi in the Andes. Ecuadorians enjoy a tropical climate along coast with cooler temperatures inland at higher elevations and tropical conditions in the Amazonian jungle lowlands. San Francisco de Quito or simply Quito, a World Heritage Site declared by UNESCO in the 70s, is the capital city of Ecuador. Ecuador is one of the 12 countries that lie on the equator and in the central square of Quito one can find “the middle of the world” or the general whereabouts of the equatorial line.

Egypt

The Arab Republic of Egypt, with supreme authority over the Sinai Peninsula and the Suez Canal, is located in north-eastern Africa. The Egyptian desert climate with hot, dry summers and moderate winters may be a factor in the preservation of some of the world's most famous monuments such as the pyramid of Giza and the Great Sphinx. The Giza Pyramids are in the capital city of Egypt, Cairo. Cairo, nicknamed "Madeenet el alf Midhana," or "the city of a thousand minarets", is the largest city in Egypt, Africa and the Arab World. Ibn Tulun is the oldest mosque in Cairo, its minaret is often described to be simple yet beautiful.

Estonia

The Republic of Estonia, a member of the European Union since 2004, is a northern European country in the northernmost region of the Baltic who broke away peacefully from the Soviet Union in 1991. The Estonian climate is temperate with warm summers and severe winters. The Estonian language is closely related and resembles that of the Finnish language. On the coast of northern Estonia, just south of Helsinki on the Gulf of Finland, lies its capital and largest city Tallinn. Tallinn is a modern city showcasing the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site Toompea.

Finland

The Republic of Finland, member of the European Union since 1995, is a Nordic country in Northern Europe. The Finns or the Finnish people have 2 official languages Finnish and Swedish. Finland was once a part of Sweden and to this day 5.6% are Swede by ethnicity, a part of the reason for the second official language. Helsinki, nicknamed the "Daughter of the Baltic", is the northernmost capital on the European continent and the largest city in Finland. One of the Unesco World Heritage sites in Helsinki is the Fortress of Suomenlinna also known as the "Gibraltar of the North".

France

The French Republic, a country in western Europe, is the largest country in terms of geographic size in the European Union. It was given the nickname “the hexagon” due to its territorial shape. France, a founding member of the European Union and the United Nations, has always been a major player in the world. Paris, nicknamed "La Ville-Lumière" or in english "The City of Light”, is the capital and largest city of France. The Eiffel Tower, a monument renowned worldwide, was designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. It sits on the Champs de Mars in Paris.

Georgia

Georgia, a mountainous country in the Caucasus region in Southwestern Asia, is currently a member of the United Nations and wants to become a member of NATO and the European Union. There are 2 major languages used in Georgia, Georgian and Russian. The climate is warm and pleasant with a Mediterranean-like quality on Black Sea coast. Tbilisi, the capital and the largest city of Georgia, is a multicultural mix of various ethnic groups consisting of about 83.8% Georgian, 6.5% Azeri, 5.7% Armenian, 1.5% Russian and the remaining 2.5% belong to other ethnic groups.

Germany

The Federal Republic of Germany is the largest central European nation and the largest exporter in the world as well. One of the world famous exports of Germans are automobiles, known for their precision engineering and manufacturing. A testament perhaps to their love of cars, they built the Autobahn, a road designed for high-speed traffic flow. Over 5,000 km of roads crisscross Berlin, the capital and largest city of Germany, however the city has one of the lowest car ownership ratios, about 3 out of 10. This fact may be due to the widespread bike lane system and the high bike ownership ratio, about 7 out of 10.

Greece

The Hellenic Republic, regarded to be the birthplace of western civilization, is located in southeastern Europe on the Balkan peninsula. The Greek language is spoken by about 99% of the population and has been in use for over 4000 years. The climate is temperate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Athens, the capital and largest city in Greece, hosted the Olympics twice, 1896 and 2004. The oldest square in the city is the Omonoia square, a tourist haven of sorts, jam packed with hotels, restaurants and a focal point for massive public celebrations.

Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, with more than 200 islands, is located in Eastern Asia. Formerly occupied by the United Kingdom, Hong Kong was given to China with certain conditions. China will not impose the socialist economic policies of the mainland, Hong Kong will experience a high degree of autonomy but not on matters of defense/foreign relations and this goes on for 50 years from 1997. Hong Kong is certainly a concrete jungle in its populous centers but nature is also not so far away. The most magnificent view of the concrete jungle skyline of Hong Kong may be from Kowloon.

Hungary

The Republic of Hungary, a central European nation northwest of Romania, joined the European Union in 2004 and holds important strategic areas between the western part of Europe, the Balkans and the Mediterranean. The climate is temperate with cold, cloudy, humid winters and warm summers. Budapest, the capital of the nation, is a diverse destination in central Europe. It offers many different things for the many different people that visit, whether for nature, art, culture or just its bustling nightlife, one could surely find a number of ways to enjoy this charming city.

India

The Republic of India is located in Southern Asia between Burma and Pakistan. Bordered by the Arabian sea and the Bay of Bengal in the Indian subcontinent, it dominates the region because of its size. India, ranked number one with the highest population in the democratic world, is also considered to be the second in terms of worldwide population. The climate is tropical monsoon in the southern region and temperate in northern part. New Delhi, the capital city of India, was designed by a legendary British architect named Edwin Landseer Lutyens with wide boulevards and a touch of nature to boot.

Ireland

The Republic of Ireland, a major part comprising of about five-sixths of the island of Ireland, lies in western Europe to the west of Great Britain in the North Atlantic Ocean. The climate of the island is temperate maritime modified by the North Atlantic Current. It has mild winters, cool summers, humid and is overcast about half the time. Dublin, the country's capital and largest city, was ranked by the GaWC as part of the top 25 “global cities” in the world. The Dublin region is flocked by a quarter of Ireland's population with many living in its suburbs. The city center is quaint and because it is small, one can choose to walk.

Israel

The State of Israel, located between Egypt and Lebanon, is a Middle Eastern country bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It is said to be the only Jewish nation in the world with 76.4% of its population of about 7,233,701 belonging to the Jewish ethnic group. It has a temperate climate with hot and dry conditions in the southern and eastern desert areas. Jerusalem, the country's capital and largest city, The only city in the Middle east regarded as a “Holy City” by three major religions namely; Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Among the oldest cities in the globe, one is surrounded by the remnants of the past.

Italy

The Italian Republic, a southern European country, is located in the Italian Peninsula or Apennine Peninsula. It is easily recognizable on a map because it is shaped like a boot. Its borders extend into the central Mediterranean Sea, to the northeast of Tunisia. The climate is largely Mediterranean but Alpine in the far north and it is hot and dry in south. Rome, one of the oldest cities in the world, is the capital and largest city in Italy. Nicknamed “the eternal city, it continues on as a crossroads in southern Europe. Rome is also the birthplace of the Catholic church, evidenced by the presence of the Vatican.

Japan

Japan, with a strategic location in northeast Asia, is an eastern Asian island chain nation located between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan to the east of the Korean Peninsula. Japan, often referred to as “the land of the rising sun”, is an archipelago composed of 6,852 islands. The climate is tropical in south and cool temperate in north. Tokyo, the capital and largest city in Japan, is considered to be one of the most livable cities in the world. A city of both tradition and modernization, with many visions of the foregone eras and the futuristic modern world intertwined.

Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the cradle of Islam and the location of Islam's two holiest shrines in Mecca and Medina. This Arab nation lies in the Middle East dominating the Arab Peninsula. Saudi Arabia's long coastlines on the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea enables it to have an edge on shipping via the Persian Gulf and the Suez Canal. The climate is harsh with dry desert conditions and great temperature extremes. This garden in the desert called Riyadh is the capital and largest city in the kingdom. It is a very conservative city and courtesy for the rules set steers one away from trouble and inconvenience.

Kuwait

The State of Kuwait, a Middle Eastern country bordering the Persian Gulf, holds a strategic area at head of Persian Gulf. In the League of Arab States or the Arab League, it is considered to be the most developed among its members. Because of its enormous oil reserves and huge exports of petroleum, it has grown to be one of the richest nations in the world. The country has a dry desert climate with intensely hot summers and short, cool winters. The capital and the largest city in the country of Kuwait is named Kuwait as well. This country's wealth can be easily seen in the numerous skyscrapers in the city of Kuwait.

Latvia

The Republic of Latvia is an eastern European nation bordering the Baltic Sea that lies between Estonia and Lithuania. The origins of Latvia come from the Latgalians one of four eastern Baltic tribes, forming the ethnic core of the Latvians. The country broke away from the former Soviet Union and transformed itself as a country with one of the highest economic growth rates in eastern Europe. The country has a maritime climate with wet moderate winters. In the country's capital and largest city, Riga, the city center was cited by UNESCO as a world heritage site for having exceptional architecture.

Lithuania

The Republic of Lithuania is located in eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and lies between Latvia and Russia. The first of the former Soviet republics to declare its independence, it restructured its economy and integrated itself into western European institutions like NATO and the EU and is now one of the growing economies in the European Union. Vilnius, the capital and largest city of Lithuania, was named by the European Union as the European Capital of Culture. A title of honor it will hold for a period of a year together with Linz.

Luxembourg

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a grand duchy since 1815, is located in western Europe, sandwiched by France and Germany. The only Grand Duchy in the world, Luxembourg, was one of the founders of the European Economic Community, a precursor to the European Union. The country has a modified continental climate with mild winters and cool summers. Luxembourg's capital and largest city bears the same name, though in English it is officially Luxembourg City. Luxembourg is one of the wealthiest cities in the world having evolved into a banking center.

Malaysia

Malaysia, located in southeastern Asia, is a peninsula bordering Thailand and the northern part of the island of Borneo. The country holds a strategic area along the Strait of Malacca and the southern South China Sea. The economy was transformed and has been recognized as an industrialized nation in Asia. The climate is tropical with several monsoons annually. Kuala Lumpur, often referred to as KL by many travelers, is home to the Petronas Twin Towers. These magnificent structures once held the record for the tallest buildings made but has been surpassed, though tall twins in architecture is certainly a feat in itself.

Malta

The Republic of Malta, a southern European nation and a member of the European Union, lies in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily. It became a freight transshipment point, a financial center, and a tourist destination, since the mid 80's. It adopted the Euro currency in 2008. Its Mediterranean climate has mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Valletta, named after Jean Parisot de la Valette, a man who defeated the invading Ottomans in 1523. The grand architecture is a one of a kind sight to see. It was honored by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1980.

Mexico

The United Mexican States is found in Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. It lies between Belize and the United States with borders to the North Pacific Ocean. It holds a strategic site on the southern border of the United States. It is believed to be the corn cradle of world, one of the globe's major grain crops. The climate varies from tropical to desert conditions. The country's capital and largest city, Mexico city, attained the title of being a global city in 2008. Its economy rivals the major economies of the world and has proven itself to be a powerful player in global economics.

Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is a western European sovereign city-state with borders to the Mediterranean Sea on the southern coast of France. Almost all of the areas of this second-smallest state in the world is urban. It is a major tourist destination well known for its many casinos, scenery, tourist facilities and many other recreational centers. The Mediterranean climate comes with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Monaco city though not the largest city in the city-state, is the old city and capital of this small state. It is also known as the rock of Monaco. It is also the site of the palace.

Morocco

The Kingdom of Morocco, a northern African nation with borders in the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea lies between Algeria and the western Sahara. It has authority over a strategic location along Strait of Gibraltar. The reigning monarch is King Mohammed VI. The climate is Mediterranean though becomes more extreme in the interior. The capital city Rabat is home to many industries and because of this is also the place of large commuter towns. The city also has a unique spin on public transportation with its blue colored petit taxis.

Netherlands

The Kingdom of the Netherlands, a western European nation, has borders to the North Sea and bordered on opposite sides by Belgium and Germany. Its location at the openings of three major European rivers, the Rhine, the Maas or Meuse, and the Schelde give it a strategic edge in the region. It is an industrialized nation and it is also big in the agricultural industry. The climate is a temperate marine with cool summers and mild winters. Amsterdam, the capital and the largest city in the Netherlands, has over a hundred kilometers of canals. It is often referred to as the Venice of the north.

New Zealand

New Zealand is an island country of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean to the southeast of Australia with two main islands the north and the south. The majority of the people in New Zealand are ethnically European and the local Maori people are a minority. The one of a kind blend of cultures and the isolation of the country may be a factor in the country's progressive views on the human aspects of life. The region has a temperate climate with sharp regional contrasts. Wellington, named in honor of Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington, is singled out as the southernmost national capital in the world.

Norway

The Kingdom of Norway can be found in northern Europe bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The nation holds a strategic location adjacent to sea lanes and air routes in the North Atlantic. The climate is temperate along coast, gets colder in the interior with increased precipitation and colder summers, it is notably rainy all year-round on west coast. It is one of the wealthiest nations due to its oil and gas deposits, it has one of the most extensive welfare systems in the world. Oslo, the capital and the largest city in Norway, is considered to be one of if not the most expensive cities in the globe.

Panama

The Republic of Panama, a Central American country has borders with both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean. Holds a strategic land bridge connecting North and South America and controls the Panama Canal linking the North Atlantic Ocean via the Caribbean Sea with the North Pacific Ocean. It has a tropical maritime climate with hot, humid, cloudy conditions. Panama, a city with the same name as the country, is the capital and largest city. It has a modern feel to it with a dense skyline. It has been chosen by the retirement community as one of the best places to live in.

Peru

The Republic of Peru, a western South American nation with borders to the South Pacific Ocean, lies between Chile and Ecuador. It shares control of Lago Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, with Bolivia. The climate varies from tropical in east to dry desert in west and temperate to frigid in the Andes. The country's capital and largest city is Lima, “the city of kings” as it was called back in the Spanish era. About a third of the entire population of the country reside in the Lima region. It is home to the Historic Center of Peru and it has been cited by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.

Philippines

The Republic of the Philippines is located in Southeastern Asia. It is an archipelago made up of 7,107 islands. It lies between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea. Its close proximity in relation to many of Southeast Asia's main water bodies like the South China Sea, Philippine Sea, Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and Luzon Strait gives it an advantage over other nations in the region. The country has a tropical marine climate and is regularly visited by monsoons. The City of Manila or simply Manila is home to one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Manila Bay, where views of the sunset are breathtaking.

Poland

The Republic of Poland, a member of NATO since 1999 and the European Union since 2004, is located in Central Europe to the east of Germany. Poland's evolution to a democratic, market-oriented country is almost realized and is actively engaged with Euro-Atlantic affairs, a turn of events largely influenced by the economic “shock therapy” back in the early 90's. Warsaw, the capital and largest Polish city, was given the name “phoenix city” because right after it was flattened in WWII the Poles valiantly resurrected the city from the ashes. The Historic Center of Warsaw has been a World Heritage site since 1980.

Portugal

The Portuguese Republic is a southwestern European nation bordering the North Atlantic Ocean to the west of Spain. Portugal is a founding member of NATO and joined the EU in 1986. The western sea approaches to the Strait of Gibraltar are advantageously occupied by the Azores and the Madeira Islands. It has a maritime temperate climate with cool, rainy conditions in the north and warmer, drier conditions in the south. The capital and largest city in Portugal is Lisbon. It is home to one of the most powerful economies of the Lisbon region, boasting of a GDP over a third of the entire nation.

Qatar

The State of Qatar is a Middle Eastern peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia holding a strategic location in the central Persian Gulf in close proximity to major petroleum deposits. Because of the country's oil and natural gas revenues, the nation was able to rank in the top 5 of the countries with the highest GDPs per capita. The arid to mild climate has pleasant winters but very hot, humid summers. Its capital and largest city is Doha. It is in this region where an overwhelming number of people are drawn together, a large majority being non-native residents and the Qatari's themselves becoming the minority.

Romania

Romania is located in southeastern Europe with borders in the Black Sea lying between Bulgaria and Ukraine. It holds the most easily traversable route by land between the Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine. The country became a member NATO in 2004 and the EU in 2007. The climate is temperate with cold, cloudy winters frequented by snowy, foggy conditions and sunny summers with frequent showers and thunderstorms. Bucharest, the capital and largest city, was given the name “little Paris of the east”. It is also the wealthiest among the country's cities.

Russia

The Russian Federation lies in Northern Asia with borders to the Arctic Ocean in between the European continent and the North Pacific Ocean. It is the largest country in the world in terms of size but in terms of the major sea lanes of the world it is in a disadvantageous position. It may be the biggest in terms of area but unfortunately much of the country lacks good soils and climates for agriculture. Moscow, the capital and largest city in the federation, is the place where the largest number of billionaires can be found. It is a powerful economic center billed as one of the most expensive cities.

Singapore

The Republic of Singapore located in southeastern Asia, it sits between Malaysia and Indonesia. Singapore got its name from "Singa Pura" or "Lion City" sometime during the 11th century. It is a focal point for Southeast Asian sea routes and its prosperity relied mainly on the Singapore River where the famous Merlion stands at its gate. Today it is one of the most progressive southeast Asian nation with one of the busiest ports. The capital of the country is the City of Singapore, it has a skyline rivaling most major cities in the world. It melds nature and the human concrete jungle wonderfully and is one of the cleanest countries in the world.

Slovakia

The Slovak Republic, a central European nation south of Poland, was once part of Czechoslovakia although, the Slovaks and Czechs peacefully separated and had their own independent states. Slovakia became a member of both NATO and the EU in 2004.The temperate climate of the country has cool summers and cold, cloudy, humid winters. The country is dominated by rugged mountains with many scenic lakes and valleys. Bratislava, the capital and largest city in the nation, has many medieval towers, grand palaces and modern architecture. One of the most well known is the Bratislava Castle.

Slovenia

The Republic of Slovenia is in central Europe in the eastern Alps bordering the Adriatic Sea. It lies between Austria and Croatia. Although it is a small country, this eastern Alpine country controls some of Europe's major transit routes. Slovenia joined both NATO and the EU in the spring of 2004. The country has a Mediterranean climate on the coast and a continental climate in the plateaus and valleys to the east with mild to hot summers and cold winters. The country's capital and largest city is Ljubljana, where the Ljubljana Castle is located dominating the city center on top of a hill.

South Africa

The Republic of South Africa, with 10 other official names, is located in Southern Africa. It sits at the southern tip of the continent of Africa. The country has numerous ethnic groups, hence the 11 official names for the country and the 11 official languages used. The climate is semiarid and subtropical along east coast with lots of sunny days and cool nights. Unlike many nations South Africans have three capital cities, Pretoria, Bloemfontein and Cape Town. That said, Pretoria is recognized to be the de facto national capital formerly named Pretoria Philadelphia (‘Pretoria of brotherly love’).

Spain

The Kingdom of Spain, a southwestern European country, borders the Bay of Biscay in the Mediterranean Sea, the North Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees Mountains to the southwest of France. Strategicly located along the approaches of the Strait of Gibraltar. Spain also controls a number of territories in northern Morocco including the enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla. The country has a temperate climate with clear, hot summers in interior but more moderate and cloudy along coast. Madrid, the capital and largest city in the country, is a major financial powerhouse and home to 3 of the of the largest companies in the world.

Sweden

The Kingdom of Sweden is a northern European nation found between Finland and Norway. It has a strategic location along the Danish Straits that link the Baltic and North Seas. Sweden is an icon of neutrality, remaining neutral in world war I and world war II and in almost 2 centuries the Swedish people have managed to maintain this stance. The climate is temperate in the south and subarctic in the north with cold, cloudy winters and cool, partly cloudy summers. In the capital and largest city Stockholm, one can see Drottingholm Palace, home to the Swedish Monarch, King Carl XVI Gustaf.

Switzerland

Swiss Confederation, founded in 1291, has evolved to the Switzerland that we know now. It is located in central Europe, to east of France and to the north of Italy. It is also a symbol of neutrality having never engaged in the 2 world wars that have ensued. Reluctant of joining the UN, it finally became a member in 2002, remaining to its commitment of neutrality. The temperate climate in the nation varies with altitude with cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters and cool to warm, cloudy, humid summers having occasional showers. Bern or Berne is the capital of the nation with its city center cited as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Taiwan

The Republic of China, commonly known as Taiwan and also known under the name Formosa or “beautiful island, is country with its status still in a process of change. Today there are nations who recognize it and there are those who do not but due to the Peoples Republic of China it has, instead of gaining recognition it is slowly loosing ground. The Taiwanese though enjoy a Maritime subtropical climate. In the capital and largest city Taipei, where the Taipei 101 can be found, is one of the global cities of the world engaged in the technology and manufacturing sectors.

Thailand

The Kingdom of Thailand, located in southeastern Asia, has borders on the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. It was established in the mid-14th century and until 1939 it was referred to as Siam. It controls the only land route from Asia to Malaysia and Singapore. The economic growth of the nation is largely due to its export and tourism industry. Bangkok, where many industries are headquartered, is the capital and largest city. It has gained the title of global city, composed not only of native Thais but also other ethnic groups making it quite cosmopolitan as well.

Turkey

The Republic of Turkey lies in two continents, southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia. It holds a strategic location in the Turkish Straits linking the Black and Aegean Seas. It became a member of NATO in 1956 and is working on being a member of the EU. In the far eastern portion of the country lies Mount Ararat, the legendary landing place of Noah's ark. The climate is temperate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, though harsher in the interior. Ankara is the city's capital, where the seat of government is located and all foreign embassies are found.

Ukraine

Ukraine, bordering the Black Sea, is located in eastern Europe. The country holds a strategic position at the crossroads between Europe and Asia. It is the second-largest country in Europe. Though it is not one of the best economies in Europe it is gaining ground in the information technology sector. It has a temperate continental climate. Kiev, the capital and the largest city in the country, is considered to be the cultural center of Eastern Europe. It is the center of the eastern orthodox church and the site of Saint Sophia Cathedral cited by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

United States

The United States of America, a northern American country bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean with Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. Ranked 3rd in the world, both in terms of area and population. It has both the highest (Mt. McKinley) and the lowest point (Death Valley) in the continent. The climate is mostly temperate but tropical in Hawaii and Florida, arctic in Alaska, semiarid in the great plains west of the Mississippi River, and arid in the Great Basin of the southwest. Washington, D.C. is the capital of the USA as written under Article One of the United States Constitution.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, a Western European nation, the territory comprising the UK include the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland. The country lies near vital North Atlantic sea lanes and is only 35 km from France. They are linked together by a tunnel under the English Channel. It was the first ever country to become industrialized. London, the capital and largest city, is the country's financial core with several business institutions listed in the FTSE choosing to make London their home. The Tower of London and Palace of Westminster are just 2 of the World Heritage sites of the city.

Uruguay

The Oriental Republic of Uruguay is located in southern South America with borders on the South Atlantic Ocean. The country's terrain is mostly grassland, perfect for cattle. In league with the developed nations in the South American region, it is also one of the most progressive and forward thinking countries in the world. Evidenced by its almost non existent corruption, liberties on labor, same sex unions and one of the highest quality of life in the globe. Montevideo, the capital and largest city, was the host of the first FIFA world cup held in the year 1930.

Venezuela

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, one of three countries that emerged from Gran Colombia in 1830, is located in northern South America with borders on the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. Major sea and air routes linking North and South America are transited in the country. The world's highest waterfall is Angel Falls, it is in the Guiana Highlands. It has a tropical climate with hot, humid conditions but more moderate in highlands. Caracas, the capital and largest city, is the site of the Universidad Central de Venezuela a UNESCO monument.

Vietnam

The Socialist Republic of Vietnam, alongside China, Laos, and Cambodia, is located in southeastern Asia. The country extends to about 1,650 km from north to south and at the country's narrowest point it is only about 50 km across. It been largely agricultural but is steadily growing in the technology sector. The climate is tropical in the south and monsoonal in north with a hot, rainy season from May to September and a warm, dry season from October to March. The capital of the country is Hanoi, struggling but steadily moving forward by a stream of foreign trade.