In the most western point of Western Europe lies a nation that has influenced the world in a way few others ever have. This nation started the Age of Discovery, and then sent history’s best explorers across the world to map it all out. This nation has the 6th most widely spoken language in the world. Today this storied nation has survived city shattering earthquakes, greedy kings, and many selfish autocrats; but has made itself into one of the world’s most advanced and safe countries on earth. This is Portugal.

In the Caucasus mountains is a nation that has weathered the storm of this region’s tumultuous history. This nation has seen many different cultures, empires, and more come in and out of this land. Today the nation is deeply divided because of its clashes with its neighbor: Armenia. On top of this the nation is facing international pressure over border disputes and because of the democracy becoming very corrupt over the last few years. This is Azerbaijan.

In the borders of these dual nations has been the most significant events in human history. Regardless of religious belief it cannot be denied how influential the events in these nations have been for the rest of the world. With recorded history going back at least 12000 years this nation is unparalleled in how deep its history goes. On top of all the ancient stories and legends of this area, it is still extremely influential to this day. As I type this the conflict between these two nations has drawn attention from countries around the world. This is Israel and Palestine. 

This nation has handled the wild history of Europe from all directions. There have been endless wars, royal marriages, and alliances within this nation. This country acted as the gateway to Europe for ages and fought in many wars to defend its borders. Today this absolutely stunning country is adjusting to a post Soviet world with a lot of change in the past 30 years. This is Hungary.

Today we go south of the Yucatan Peninsula to a nation that has seen any and all of the major problems, wars and challenges in Central America. This nation used the sport of soccer to fight a war against its neighbor El Salvador. Culture in this nation has been influenced by Europe, America, and its neighbors; however, the culture of the indigenous people still remains strong today. This nation is struggling to find its place in the democratic world but with its newest president there is a lot of hope in the hearts of the people. This is Honduras.

In the low bowels of Central Asia, lies a nation that has endured every era its history has provided no matter how strong or scarce it was. Perhaps the nation with the most oddly drawn borders in the world, while also holding some odd records; this nation is odd in every sense of the term. With a mix of Persian, Middle Eastern and Russian influence our focus of today is one that is often forgotten. This is Tajikistan.

Don’t call it a comeback. This small nation in the middle east went from a bunch of undeveloped emirates to a united nation of technology and marvel. Home to the tallest building in human history, the only 7 star hotel on earth, and some of earth’s largest oil reserves. This nation has interacted with some of the world's most ancient empires like the Umayyad and Abbasids. This is one of the most unique nations on the planet and it is starting to get a lot of attention. These are the United Arab Emirates. 

In Eastern Europe, is a storied slavic nation that has struggled to be recognized for its own story. With a name that clearly draws connection to its great neighbor, this country has seen all of the same wars and struggles as Russia. This country has seen most of its independent history under the same government regime. However, that hasn’t stopped it from advancing its culture and standing in the region. This is Belarus.

In the very heart of Europe lies a nation that has long pumped life into the continent. One of the most long reigning dynasties in world history held power in this land: The Habsburgs. This nation has contributed to every single major European event for the last thousand years. This nation was the first to declare war in World War I. In the modern age this storied nation has developed into a place of peace, glamor and excellence. This is Austria.

This city is the gambling capital of the world, home to the world series of poker and so much more. This city is a bright, glowing, gem of American Ingenuity. Literally it is the brightest spot on earth. With a short history but quality packed one this city is absolutely one of a kind. The entertainment capital of the world, Sin City itself, This is Las Vegas.