About New Zealand

Population: 4,475,000
Capital City: Wellington
National Language(s): English
Currency: New Zealand Dollar
Calling Code: +64

New Zealand is a country comprised of two adjacent islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of mainland Australia. The country’s territory also encompasses some smaller nearby islands including Stewart Island, sometimes known by its original name Rakiura. The wider ‘Realm of New Zealand’ includes neighbouring South Pacific islands such as the Cook Islands and Tokelau, though some of the constituents are self governing. They are united through an arrangement in which the reigning monarch of New Zealand is head of state of all constituent countries. Formerly part of the British Empire, the monarch of New Zealand is in turn shared with the Commonwealth of Nations – an organization uniting many countries of the old Empire. New Zealand’s incumbent Queen is Elizabeth II.

Although the Queen is the recognised Head of State, in practice this is a largely ceremonial role. In effect the Queen appoints a Governor General to dissolve parliament prior to elections. The Governor also chairs a committee of elected ministers. All legislative powers are placed in the hands of a democratically elected parliament. Therefore New Zealand’s political system is essentially identical to that of the UK.

It is believed that New Zealand was first reached by Dutch ships in 1642. The Maori inhabitants of the island attacked the crew however, killing four members, and Maori New Zealanders retain their reputation for ferocity to this day. It wasn’t until James Cook’s voyage in 1769 that New Zealand was further explored. In 1840, British sovereignty was declared and in 1841 the land was recognised as a colony independent of New South Wales in Australia (with which it was previously grouped).

Through the 20th century New Zealand became increasingly independent and its population grew dramatically with the influx of European settlers. Around 80% of the country’s population today are of European descent (primarily British and Irish).

New Zealand fairs exceptionally well in international rankings, coming first in both the Global Peace Index and Corruption Perceptions Index. It is a prosperous country with high quality education and living standards.

The Maori population of New Zealand developed their distinctive culture over centuries before European settlement. The widely accepted viewpoint is that the Polynesian settlers arrived by canoe at some point in the 13th century.

One defining characteristic of New Zealand’s culture is its dramatic, sheer and diverse landscape. This untouched natural beauty made it the perfect backdrop for filming of the Lord of the Rings movies, and also the upcoming Hobbit movie. Mount Cook on the South Island is over 12,000 feet tall and is surrounded by a wilderness of forest and national park land.

New Zealand’s earliest known inhabitants are some of the most recent of any country in the world. This in part facilitated the evolution of highly unique and undisturbed flora and fauna. Whilst many species are now extinct (including the world’s largest bird of prey, the Haast’s eagle and the moa), New Zealand is home to dozens of endemic species.

New Zealanders are colloquially known as ‘Kiwis’ – a nickname derived from the flightless bird that inhabits the island.

New Zealand’s culture is heavily influenced by its colonial past and the British background of much of the population. Today the country has a distinctive yet western identity with music, art and food similar to that of Australia and the UK. The European influence has been merged with aspects of the Maori culture to weave a rich and unique national identity. Maori perform karakia (a type of prayer) and kapa haka (involving both song and dance).

Sport plays a big role in New Zealand and the country fields various competitive teams on the international stage. The rugby union team (the All Blacks) are arguably the strongest side in the world and are well known for their rendition of the haka before the start of matches. Cricket is also very popular in New Zealand with a successful national team dating back to 1832. New Zealand’s national soccer team (the All Whites) competed in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Safety and Special Considerations

Violent crime is rare but pickpocketing and thefts may target tourists. Keep your valuables in a safe place and remain weary leaving belongings in an unattended vehicle or hotel room.

If you plan to partake in extreme sports on your trip make sure you have comprehensive medical insurance that covers against sports accidents. Keep check of weather conditions and only use reputable companies.

It is illegal to carry many foods into New Zealand (including meat and dairy). Importing drugs is punishable by lengthy prison sentences.

New Zealand is in the most part highly tolerant of same sex relationships.

Entry Requirements

British citizens can enter New Zealand for up to 6 months without a visa assuming they do not intend to work during their stay. If you plan to enter employment you must acquire a visa for permission. US citizens are eligible to stay for 3 months but must also acquire a visa in order to work.

Respective embassies are located in London and Washington DC. Ensure your passport has a minimum of one month validity beyond the date of your departure.

Must See

Check out our recent New Zealand case study under ‘Tips and Features’ for an introduction to some of the country’s most breathtaking, must-visit locations!

Aerial view of the stunning New Zealand landscape

Credit: Steve Taylor

About Australia

Population: 22,900,000
Capital City: Canberra
National Language(s): English
Currency: Australian Dollar
Calling Code: +61

Australia is a sprawling country covering nearly 3,000,000 sq miles. Situated in the Southern Hemisphere Australia is classified in the region of Oceania which encompasses dozens of small islands distributed across the tropical Pacific Ocean. Depending on the definition, Oceania is sometimes considered to extend north and west to include the Southeast Asian nations of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.

To the southeast lies New Zealand – a country whose culture and history is inextricably entwined with that of Australia itself, whilst due east is a series of individual territories including the Solomon Islands, Fiji and New Caledonia surrounded by the vast, blue Pacific!

The major city of Brisbane on Australia’s east coast sits over 11,500km of sheer blue from Los Angeles on the opposite side of the ocean. Northern Australia’s latitude is shared with nations in the hemisphere including Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Brazil and Chile, all of which have land sitting on the 20th parallel south!

Australia’s modern history dates back to 1606 when Dutch ships sighted the mainland at the area now known as Cape York Peninsula in the northernmost tip of the country. The Dutch travelled the northern and western coastlines and referred to the land as ‘New Holland’ though never made settlement. The British explorer and navigator James Cook sailed the east coast much later in 1770 where ultimately the Crown Colony of New South Wales would be formed by Great Britain.

The first fleet of ships embarked in May 1787 with approximately half those on board British convicts. By 1828 Britain had also claimed Western Australia whilst the European population grew. In 1901 the Commonwealth of Australia was born and further autonomy was gained in 1942 when a range of constitutional ties with the UK were ended. Today the country is highly prosperous and ranks highly for measures including quality of life, healthcare, education and freedom.

It is also worth note that before European settlement the indigenous peoples (Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders) had inhabited the land for an estimated 45,000 years! These natives are believed to have migrated from the Southeast Asian countries.

Australia’s culture is highly westernized but at the same time retains unique and distinctive characteristics. The country’s history, environment and aboriginal roots have all played a role in shaping today’s national identity.

Most Australians are descended from European settlers and immigration through the 20th century was particularly rapid with total population increasing five fold over that timeframe. The indigenous Australian population today is believed to represent around 2.3% of the total.

Around two thirds of Australians identify themselves as Christians, whilst non-Christian religions account for just 6% of the population.

Dating back to the first European settlement, Australia’s art has been strongly entwined with the country’s beautiful and vivid landscape. Early practitioners included Albert Namatjira and Arthur Boyd.

Australia has an active tradition of music, ballet and theatre and many of its performing arts companies receive public funding supported by the government. There is a symphony orchestra in each major city, the iconic national opera house, and the company Opera Australia brought to prominence by Dame Joan Sutherland. Popular genres in the country include classical, jazz, and pop.

Australian literature has also been influenced by themes such as the landscape and the nation’s colonial past. In 1973, Patrick White won the Nobel Prize for Literature, and to this day remains the only Australian to have collected the award.

Sport is heavily enshrined in the Australian culture, and the country fields many highly successful international teams and athletes. Particular strengths include cricket, hockey, rugby (union and league), cycling and swimming. Aussie rules football and soccer are also popular.

Safety and Special Considerations

A common sense approach should be applied to safety through precautions such as keeping personal belongings in a safe place. Also, take care when withdrawing cash and walking in popular tourist spots to avoid opportunistic burglary.

Parts of Australia are exceptionally remote so if travelling the outback you should do so with an experienced local guide and be sure to inform the authorities, hostel and friends of your plans.

There are dozens of dangerous animal species in Australia including sharks, crocodiles, snakes and spiders. See the government’s Wet Tropics website for the pertinent information.

Australia operates a no tolerance policy on the possession of drugs.

Tropical cyclones do occur, typically between November and April in northern and western regions. Monitoring local weather reports is sensible.

Entry Requirements

US and EU citizens must obtain a visa before entering Australia. It is advisable to obtain an eVisitor visa direct through the Department of Immigration & Citizenship.

Alternatively, a visa can be obtained through the Electronic Travel Authority.

Must See

Australia’s natural, unspoiled beauty and warm climate make it a magnet for tourists, particularly those from other English speaking countries. The Great Barrier Reef is one compelling draw – and little wonder, this is the biggest series of reefs anywhere in the world. Covering some 130,000 sq miles, off the northeast coast of Australia, a remarkable structure of 3,000 individual reefs is composed of billions of living organisms! The description sounds almost unbelievable but the reef is arguably the world’s greatest ecological wonder.

The reef is home to dozens of diverse yet beautiful species including various kinds of whales, dolphins and turtles. A staggering 1,500 confirmed varieties of fish live on the reef, whilst over 200 species of bird visit and nest. Scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef is something everyone should do in a lifetime!

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most striking, vast and beautiful pieces of design and architecture in modern history. Observing it from the outside alone is a treat but it shouldn’t be forgotten that it also stages the highest calibre of the performing arts! Drop in to enjoy an opera, theatre production or ballet and saviour one of the finest UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the planet.

Other noteworthy feats of architecture in Sydney include the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Tower and the ANZ Stadium.

If you’re looking to delve deep into Australia’s Aboriginal roots you simply must take a tour of Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Central Australia. Revered by the native tribes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a striking example of Australia’s natural beauty. Access costs 25 AUD, for which you’ll receive a 3 day pass to soak up the surrounding nature and history. Whilst in this region be sure to check out Kings Canyon too!

UNESCO World Heritage Site – The Royal Exhibition Building

Credit: Brian

About Turkey

Population: 77,800,000
Capital City: Ankara
Official Language(s): Turkish and Kurdish
Currency: Turkish Lira
Calling Code: +90

The geographical terrain of Turkey would appeal to any tourist for contrary to the projection of its landscape as dry and dusty it is endowed with large lush agricultural valleys, rambling rivers, magnificent hills and plains laden with brightly lit flowers. It has a coastline close to 8500 kms making it one of the most attractive beach tourist destinations. It lays equi-distance between east and west of the world, for which reason it is called as a country that lies at the heart of east /west divide of the world. Its borders are adjacent to Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Iran and Iraq and are covered by Black sea, the Mediterranean and The Aegean. The Black Sea Mountains are situated in the north and the Tarus Mountains surround the south from where Tigris and Euphrates rivers rise. The biblical mountain known as the Noah’s Ark has an astounding height of 5137 meters. Asia Minor constituting 97% of the country forms a long and wide peninsula comprising 1650km (1025 miles) from east to the west and 650 km (400 miles) from North to the South.

Historians start with the invasion of Turks into Anatolia dating back to 11C and keeping this as the beginning point it is synonymous with the culture and civilisation of nomadic Turks. It was followed by the rise of the Ottoman Turks, who asserted their supremacy by the end of 13C and reached its peak by the end of 16C from then onwards it declined. A multitude of factors as corruption, nepotism and the misrule of Sultans pulled down the Ottoman Empire. In the early 1900 the Young Turks finally dethroned Abdulhamit but although his replacement in Mehmet was only name sake, yet the country during their era (1908-18) saw a rapid development in agriculture, industry and other sectors. There was a change in the religious mind-set and the attitude towards women. It became secular and women were emancipated. Modern Turkey emerged after 1923 but was characterized by several coups. Two names who always would dominate the history of Turkey are Alexander the Great and Kemal Ataturk. The former was the greatest military leader the world has ever known, and the later one was the foremost reformer of modern Turkey.

Naturally, one would find the influence Anatolian civilisation in Turkey’s culture. Folk music is part and parcel of such a culture but what is more unique about it is that people create their own music, which is not written, but passed from one to another. Each region follows its own tradition in the type of costumes, use of instruments and the method of dancing. Each occasion is characterized a form of dancing suiting it. It is different for weddings, harvest or welcoming the guest. Horon, Kasik Oyunu and Kilic are the famously known ones which you should ask witness and participate.

Safety and Special Considerations

For visiting coastal resorts in the summer, light and casual clothing would suffice. If you would be in Black Sea Coasts, also, carrying a rain coat would become handy. For staying in inland Turkey and higher altitudes, prior to the onset of winter you would have to carry sweaters but after the onset you need woolen clothing and coat. If you are going to be in a coastal region or Istanbul during the winter, you would have to pack yourself with lighter warm clothes but do not forget to take a rain coat.

During a visit to religion palaces as a mosque, it is imperative for the women to take and wear a head scarf. Archeological and historical sites you would look smarter with sunglasses and hats, especially if you are there during the summer.

Otherwise, street crime is less but totally not devoid of it. Tourist should take care of their personal belongings and valuable as pick pocketing or deceptive money luring activities are common. Accepting food from a stranger could land you into the risk of getting mugged. Coastal areas seem to be more vulnerable to these crimes.

Entry Requirements

It varies from country to a country but for whomever a visa is needed to enter Turkey it is necessary to file the application in person and at least 30 days in advance from the date you intend entering the country. Passports should have a minimum validity of 90 days when the Visa application is made.

Must See

In general, Turkey is a destination you can visit and enjoy in any part of the year. Since each one may have a particular area of interest the following tips would be helpful. Destinations to be visited could be chosen from Istanbul, Mammaries, Antalya, Ankara, Izmir, and Cappadocia.

Lovers of beach would find April to June and September to October the best periods in a year for during these months the shores of Aegean and Mediterranean are ideal for sunbathing. Though the sun may be shining bright yet the heat would not cause discomfort. Those who like sightseeing roughly the same months would suit them for during this period Central Anatolia is a lot cooler. Easter Anatolia’s weather would be conducive in May, June, September and early October.

In case you are planning to visit during the rest of months, be ready for doing your sightseeing under heavy rains.

Whatever may be the time of your visit, you would not have a dull moment for there are a variety of activities, as Blue Voyage, Hot Springs and Spas, Yachting, Rafting, etc. that would keep you engaged and absorbed.

A view over historic Turkey

Credit: Greenwich

About Albania

Population: 3,164,000
Capital City: Tirana
Official Language(s): Albanian
Currency: Albanian Lek
Calling Code: +355

Albania is a Balkan country located in South Eastern Europe. A former Communist state since 1992 it has moved towards its current democratic political system and free market economy. Albania’s beautiful shoreline merges the boundaries of both the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. With a land area of around 11,000 sq miles, the country neighbours Montenegro to the north, Kosovo to the northeast, Macedonia to the east and Greece to the south. Just across the Adriatic Sea lies Italy – only 150km apart, it is possible to take a ferry from Brindisi, Italy to Vlore in a journey taking approximately 4.5 hours across the Strait of Otranto.

Today, Albania is an emerging democratic country with membership of NATO and the United Nations. In 2009 the country made formal its candidacy for European Union membership and in November of that year the European Commission began to assess Albania’s preparation for negotiations to take place.

Known inhabitation of the land that makes up today’s Albania dates back millennia to the Illyrian people. Ancient relics of the country’s long history exist today, including the remains of Butrint, an ancient Greek settlement and UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Albania.

Albania gained its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912 after centuries of Turkish control. After the Second World War Albania was politically aligned with the Soviet Union and became a strict Communist state lasting right up until the 1990s.

Coastal Albania has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The climate inland is affected by the more mountainous terrain and is therefore typically cooler in the winter. The average temperature difference between North and South is as much as 5 degrees Celsius across the year.

Culture

A large majority of the population is ethnically Albanian. Small minorities include pockets of Greeks, Serbs and Bulgarians. There is very little data regarding the religion of Albanians and respective estimates suggest differing percentages of Muslims, Christians and atheists. However, the country is generally regarded to be predominantly Muslim.

Irrespective of their religious affiliation, Albanians are often considered to place a high importance on hospitality, generosity and loyalty. Folk music is especially popular within the country and often follows themes of patriotism and history.

The Albanian language is classified as Indo-European.

Safety and Special Considerations

The political climate in the wider Balkans region remains tense but the area is largely peaceful. The disputed territory of Kosovo is primarily Albanian but the border in the northeast should be avoided due to poor roads and infrastructure. Unexploded mines likely still exist in this region.

The rest of the country is generally safe public security is good. Organised crime and violence are a problem in some parts of Tirana and so caution should be exercised at all times. Overall, however, security is excellent in the capital city and Albanians are hospitable to visitors.

Albania’s roads (particularly in rural regions) are in a bad state of repair and large quantities of motorists have an aggressive style of driving. Care should be taken at all times to drive safely and avoid hostility.

Entry Requirements

Those from America and the EU do not require a visa to enter Albania. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days in any given 180 day period you must apply for a Residency Permit at a police station.

A passport with a minimum of six months validity is required for entry and exit.

Must See

• Saranda in the south has beautiful clear waters and white, sandy beaches.
• Durres on the Adriatic coastline has lovely architecture and beaches.
• Tirana is a large, bustling, westernized city. It is home to many cultural and architectural sights, as well as great restaurants and clubs.
• The city of Kruje is worth a visit if only to look around the Skanderbeg Museum and castle.
• If you enjoy climbing and mountainous regions, Korca is the place for you.

Church in Pogradec, Albania

Credit: Michael Sujka

About the Ashmore and Cartier Islands

The Ashmore and Cartier Islands collectively make up a territory administered by Australia. Ashmore Reef is comprised of three tiny islets, with Cartier Island lying approximately 50km southeast. Though the total area of the territory is a fraction short of 200 sq kilometres, the land is exceptionally low lying and so (along with the nearby Hibernia Reef) is only fully visible during low tide.

The islands lie in the Indian Ocean around 325km from Australia’s Kimberley Coast in the northwest of the country. The nearest neighbour is in fact Indonesia, whose Lesser Sunda Islands are situated around 140 km north. On the international stage the territory is grouped with Australia and defence responsibility lies with their English speaking neighbours! Whilst uninhabited the islands are visited at regular intervals by the Australian Navy.

Indonesia’s stance is that Ashmore reef is part of the East Nusa Tenggara province. Their name for the reef is Pulau Pasir.

The Australian government gives permission for Indonesian fishermen to access the region and the plethora of species under the deep waters! This in itself provides one of the few opportunities for travellers to soak up the natural beauty to be found in the islands. From the southernmost islands of Indonesia it may be possible to grab a ride from a local fisherman and spend a day out at sea nearby. There is no guarantee, however, and you’ll probably have to negotiate a price!

The route to Australia via Ashmore has in recent times been popular with asylum seekers attempting to enter Australia. Whilst this practice has been curbed in recent years by legislation the Australian Navy does have a periodic presence in the area. In 2009 a vessel travelling from Indonesia to Australia exploded killing 5 and injuring a further 44.

The Australian Nature Conservation Agency can issue permits for access but you’ll need a legitimate reason for your trip.

The Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve was founded in 1983 as a means of protecting the diverse and beautiful flora present across the territory. Of particular note are untainted marine habitats, coral reef flats and deep blue lagoons. A staggering estimated 100,000 birds nest and feed on the islands. Other species include Green and Loggerhead turtles.

For further information on accessing the islands, check our guide to Australia.

About Armenia

Population: 3,450,000
Capital City: Yerevan
Official Language(s): Armenian
Currency: Armenian Dram
Calling Code: +374

Armenia boasts the distinction of being the first nation to follow Christianity officially (dating back to the beginning of the 4th century). This landlocked state sits on the boundary between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, sharing major borders with Turkey in the west, Georgia in the North, Azerbaijan in the east and Iran to the south.

Today Armenia is a democratic nation with fully fledged membership of the United Nations, the World Trade Organization and the Council of Europe amongst others. In addition it holds a respectable ranking of 31st in the WSJ Economic Freedom Index. This comes despite the turmoil of the 20th century, in which the Armenian people suffered first persecution and then Soviet control. Independence was restored in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union and today conditions in the country are steadily improving with a successful move to a full market economy.

Tensions remain over the unrecognized state of Nagorno-Karabakh officially considered to be a part of Azerbaijan. Conflict erupted in the late 80s and early 90s as Armenians backed a movement for independence supported in the region. A cease-fire has, however, been observed since 1994. Relations with Turkey are also strained but Armenia maintains close ties with both Russia and Iran.

Armenia has a long and colourful ancient history. The Hittite Empire flourished in the region around 1300 BC followed by Hayasa-Azzi, the Nairi and the Kingdom of Urartu. Later in the 7th century BC the Kingdom of Armenia was formally created.

Armenia has a very mountainous terrain with the peak sitting over 13,000 feet above sea level. Whilst summers are warm and dry, high snowfall in the winter months makes Armenia attractive to skiers.

Ethnic Armenians make up the vast majority of the population, most all of whom follow Christianity. Whilst the population of Armenia itself is around 3.5 million there is a sizeable diaspora worldwide (believed to be around 8 million). Around 2 million reside in Russia, over 1 million in the United States and approximately 600,000 in France.

The Armenian language is a distinctive Indo European language, but over three quarters of Armenians also speak Russian whilst English is becoming increasingly commonplace.

Warm hospitality is prized in Armenia, and dining customs stem from ancient traditions. Elaborate presentation is prized whilst courses tend to be well seasoned and tasteful but not spicy! Alcohol is served during meals, with red wine being particularly popular. It is considered polite to treat guests with great warmth and so on entrance to an Armenian household it is commonplace to be offered food and drink.

Genres of music popular in Armenia include local folk tracks, which often feature a distinctive instrument popular in the Caucasus region called a ‘duduk’. Christian and pop music also has a wide audience. Popular Armenian performers over the decades include Adiss Harmandian, Sirusho and System of a Down. Pop star Cher (Cherilyn Sarkisian) is of Armenian heritage too!

Armenia has produced great chess players over the years including Tigran Petrosian – a former world champion. Widely practiced sports include wrestling, weightlifting and football. World famous sportsmen of Armenian origin include Youri Djokaeff and Armen Nazarian.

Safety and Special Considerations

Due to the aforementioned dispute over the state of Nagorno-Karabakh the border with Azerbaijan should be avoided if at all possible. In particular the areas of Tavush and Gegharkunic are potentially unsafe with reports of ongoing but nonetheless sporadic conflict.

Violent crime is fairly low but precautions should be taken to avoid petty thefts and pickpocketing. Keep your valuables in a safe place and remain aware of your surroundings.

Armenia’s roads are by and large in a poor state of repair. You should be cautious when driving and be on alert for reckless and dangerous motorists.

Non-scheduled or non-international flights should be avoided if possible. There is some evidence that Eastern airline companies operating in Armenia aren’t meeting international safety standards.

Entry Requirements

US and EU citizens must obtain a visa before entering Armenia. It is possible to obtain one on arrival in the country. Applications can also be submitted online.

You should ensure your passport holds a minimum validity of 6 months beyond the date of your planned exit.

Must See

The monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin are recognised UNESCO World Heritage sites. Both steeped in centuries of history they are truly worth a visit if only to soak up Armenia’s long and colourful past. Tourism is largely rooted in the country’s host of wonderful historical landmarks and natural wonders. Highlights include Lake Sevan, the springs of Arzni and the rugged mountains and cliffs in the south.

Mount Ararat (now technically situated in Turkey) is a hugely recognished symbol of Armenia and is visible from the Southwest region.

Yerevan (the capital city) is without doubt the focal point of this nation. Packed full of history and culture there are dozens of museums, theatres and beautifully constructed buildings to enjoy. The Matenadaran houses over 16,000 ancient manuscripts detailing fascinating works from philosophers including Aristotle. The National Art Gallery has a fabulous collection too and should be squeezed into a visit at all costs!

Republic Square, Yerevan, Armenia

About Angola

Population: 18,600,000
Capital City: Luanda
Official Language(s): Portuguese
Currency: Angolan Kwanza
Calling Code: +244

Today, Angola is undergoing a process of gradually rebuilding itself after being ravaged by a 27-year civil war. The People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), led by Jose Eduardo Dos Santos is one of Angola’s major political parties, and is responsible for independence after centuries of Portuguese rule.

The Portuguese regime was overthrown in late 1975 but a bitter civil war soon ensued between the MPLA and another of Angola’s political parties – the UNITA.

The earliest known inhabitants of the territory now recognised as Angola were the Khoisans. These hunter-gatherers were gradually replaced by Bantu tribes migrating from the north who possessed a much more sophisticated understanding of craftsmanship and farming.

In 1575 Portugal founded a Portuguese colony at Luanda, which became a focal point for the slave trade. The Portuguese gradually took control of the coastal strip throughout the 16th century through a series of accords and wars.

Much later, in 1951, Portugal classified Angola as one of its overseas territories around the same time strong movements for independence emerged from the Angolan people themselves.

The most well known Angolan folk song is Kumbaya (Come by here, my Lord). However, its origin in Angola is disputed by those linguists who consider it to have originated in Gullah, a Creole language used today by many African Americans living in the south-eastern states of the USA.

Angolan pop music is known as ‘Kizomba’, and has produced several international stars.

Portuguese rule has inevitably had a marked effect on Angola’s culture, and today Portuguese remains the sole official language whilst Catholicism is the dominant religion.

Safety and Special Considerations

The provinces of Cabinda and North Lunda as well as South Lunda should be avoided.

You should only venture away from Angola’s major cities if accompanied by an experienced local travel guide due to dangers of domestic travel.

Crime in Luanda is a significant problem so all possible precautions should be taken. Do not carry around valuables or walk around past dark.

Unexploded mines still exist away from urban areas and the standard of infrastructure is generally poor.

Same sex relationships are illegal.

Entry Requirements

US and EU citizens must obtain a visa before entering Angola. The process can take several weeks so should be initiated well in advance of your trip.

Angolan embassies are located in Washington and London respectively. There is a fine of 150USD per day if you remain after the expiration of your visa.

A valid certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination is required otherwise you will be inoculated on entrance to the country.

Must See

Angola boasts much natural beauty, particularly along its striking coastline. The nation is full of culture, color and spectacular landscapes.

Popular national parks include Cameia and Iona. Here you can soak up nature over vast plains and woodlands – home to a staggering assortment of wildlife including beautiful aquatic birds.

Luanda, the Angolan capital

About Afghanistan

Population: 29,363,000
Capital City: Kabul
Official Language(s): Pashto and Dari (Persian)
Currency: Afghan Afghani
Calling Code: +93

Afghanistan is located in Southern Asia but over time has been variously categorized with both the Central Asian and Middle Eastern states (depending on the definition!). Southern Asia is generally regarded to encompass Iran to the west across through Pakistan and India to Burma in the east.

Afghanistan shares a major 2,400 kilometre border with Pakistan in the east and south, whilst to the West lies Iran. Borders also exist with Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and indeed China at the far north-eastern tip.

In many ways the ambiguity in classifying Afghanistan within its region is testament to its history and diverse cultural and ethnic makeup. It has long been considered a prominent crossway between east and west – partially due to the fact it straddles Asia and the Middle East and was therefore a focal point of most trade routes. Much human migration has passed through Afghanistan over centuries too.

The state of Afghanistan that exists today was originally established in 1747 though various civilisations have inhabited the land throughout history. Human occupation is believed to date back 50,000 years.

Afghanistan’s recent history has been marked by conflict. Following the 9/11 attacks on New York, US and British forces began targeting al-Qaeda and Taliban strongholds within the country. In November 2001 the incumbent Taliban government was removed prompting al-Qaeda to move east toward the Pakistan border.

Hamid Karzai has been President since December 2001 but the country remains politically fragile due to deep rooted disagreements between rival factions. As of late 2010 the war is ongoing. Barack Obama has stated he wants to begin withdrawing troops in July 2011 (though an American presence will presumably remain for many years to come), whilst British Prime Minister David Cameron hopes to withdraw all British forces by 2015.

Afghanistan is comprised of several ethnic groups – the two largest of which are the Pashtun and Tajik peoples. In excess of 99% of the population is Muslim, of which approximately 85% are Sunnis.

Persian poetry is a staple of Afghan culture. It plays a major role not only in the arts, but it is deeply enshrined in education and the wider way of life. Amongst Afghanistan’s national sports is ‘Buzkashi’ – a game with parallels to polo involving a goat carcass instead of a ball.

The prevailing Afghan way of life places a high importance on personal honor and loyalty. Afghanistan’s development has been stifled partially by perpetual ‘clan’ feuding and disputes (many of which are ultimately resolved through fighting).

For 30 years Afghanistan has experienced a near constant state of civil war with bitter divisions present in society. Social, political and military turbulence is likely to remain for many years.

Safety and Special Considerations

Afghanistan is currently out of bounds to even the most adventurous travellers due to the ongoing NATO led invasion.

Entry Requirements

Afghanistan is inaccessible to travellers.

Must See

Many of Afghanistan’s great landmarks bear the scars of war – two beautiful statues of Buddha located in the Province of Bamiyan were torn down by the Taliban, for example.

Beautiful, preserved sites do remain, however, in the cities of Herat and Balkh, for example. The stunning Minaret of Jam in Ghor province is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The historic blue mosque in Mazar-e Sharif Afghanistan

About El Salvador

Population: 6,137,500
Capital City: San Salvador
Official Language(s): Spanish
Currency: US dollar
Calling Code: +503

The country of El Salvador is located in Central America.

Background Information and Culture in El Salvador

A former Spanish colony, this Central American countries inhabitants on the whole speak Spanish, although a small section speaks Nahuat. Famous El Salvadorians include Jesuit priests & professors Ignacio Ellacuria, Ignacio Martin-Baro & Segundo Montes.

Writers Francisco Gavidia, Salarrue, Claudia Lars, Alfredo Espino, Pedro Geoffroy, Manlio Argueta, & poet Roque Dalton are among the significant artists to come from El Salvador. Noted 20th century personages include the late filmmaker Baltasar Polio, artist Fernando Llort, & caricaturist Tono Salazar.

Must See Highlights in El Salvador

Some of the must see highlights of El Salvador include -

Amazing jungles and rainforests.

About Ecuador

Capital City: Quito
Official Language(s): Spanish
Population: 13,228,000
Currency: US dollar
Calling code: +593

The country of Ecuador is located in the north section of the South American continent.

Background Information and Culture in Ecuador

Another former Spanish colony, Ecuador is an independent country, with most of it being above 3000 metres (9000 feet). With access to the Amazon, Andes and the amazing Galapaos islands, Ecuador offers many diverse opportunities for the tourist.

For the main part, the people of Ecuador are a mixed race of the original Ameri-Indians and the Spanish settlers, although more isolated cultural groups still do exist in the mountains and the Amazon.

Food wise, on the streets potatoes (an important part of the diet) and roast pig are popular, as are juices. The more traditional cuy, which is guinea pig, can still be found on the menu in the highland villages. Ceviche, which is a seafood based meal is popular at weekends, and is allegedly a great hangover cure! Caldo’s, which are really filling soups, are another Ecuadorian meal not to be missed.

Ecuador is a football crazy country, with great pride being taken in the national team, although they rarely perform well on the international stage. Cycling is also a popular sport, with many people taking to the roads at the weekends.

Lying off the coast of Ecuador are the Galapagos Islands, an island hugely rich in bio-diversity, and a main destination for tourists coming to the country.

Must See Highlights in Ecuador

Some of the must see highlights of Ecuador include -

The Galapagos Islands.

The Equator.

Visit Inca ruins.