Hidden Nations: 7 Countries That Exist - but Barely Make It on the World Map

 

Now talk about countries; when you think of those, what are the first few that come to mind? But around the world are nations so small, isolated or ignored that hardly anyone knows they were ever there. These "hidden nations" might not be on every world map, but they each have their own unique culture and story waiting to be unfolded.

Here are seven countries that live in the shadows:

Tuvalu

Tuvalu: Tuvalu is a very small nation located in the Pacific Ocean and one of the least applied countries worldwide. It is home to low-lying atolls amongst aquamarine waters and a population of just over 10,000. Tuvalu is particularly interesting - and frightening for obvious reasons - because of its exposure to rising sea levels. 

Relatively few nations will be in a skeptical position to interim this era, before the twentieth century within that influence they could possibly blench out. Having said that, they still have their own unique Polynesian culture and a slower-paced lifestyle.

Nauru

Ranking as the second smallest country on Earth by area, Nauru does not even have an official capital city. Nauru was once among the richest nations per capita on Earth  -  thanks to phosphate mining. But when those resources ran dry and it turned instead into an economic pariah with few sponging tourists, its sinking economy made many of its islands vulnerable to rising sea levels. The stark landscape created by the mining is a far cry from what most peoples' minds conjure when they think of an island nation up in tropical imagery.

San Marino

San Marino is a landlocked country and completely surrounded by Italy, but it’s one of the oldest republics in the world dating back to 301 A.D. The tiny region, known for its medieval architecture and hilltop views (and a very strong sense of independence!) Exploring its cobblestone streets is like walking through a living museum. However, it is also little-known compared to its more prestigious neighbour and so makes the perfect off-the-beaten path destination in Europe.

Comoros

Comoros is an archipelago situated between Madagascar and Mozambique, well known for its culture and natural beauty. The city is a melting pot of African, Arab and French cultures. Although, it got reserved away from most tourism radar due to the tumult's political instability and thinned travelated infrastructure. It is one of the places those who go to are greeted by beaches, rocks and colorful traditions.

Kiribati

Kiribati covers 33 atolls and reef islands, making it one of the most geographically dispersed countries in the world. It extends into each of the four hemispheres  -  which is no small feat. Life is centered on the ocean here, where fishing and traditional practices are ingrained part of their lives. Kiribati, just like Tuvalu is also a victim of rising sea levels and therefore an important frontline country in the fight against global climate change.

Lesotho

Lesotho is unique because it has the highest average altitude in the world (only completely above 1,000 meters), but more importantly, it lies entirely within South Africa. Also referred to as the "Kingdom in the Sky", Lesotho is characterized by rugged mountain scenery, Basotho culture and a laid-back atmosphere. Despite its pristine beauty, it barely sees any international people.

Andorra

Andorra is a small landlocked microstate between France and Spain in the Pyrenees mountains and one of the wealthiest countries per capita. Synonymous with ski resorts, duty free shops, it draws millions of people a year without most being able to find it on a map. With elements of Catalan culture, modern landscapes that compete in timelessness with the medieval legacy and an efficient transport system it makes a perfect old & new blend.

Why These Countries Matter

These countries may be small or inconsequential but nevertheless test our understanding of the world. They remind us that global diversity is not restricted to major cities or dominant economies but flourishes in remote islands, mountainous kingdoms and centuries-old microstates.

Why are many of these clandestine countries more exposed than those bigger nations? They are often the first to be battered by climate change, punched in the face by economic constriction and sidelined politically. But they have also survived with astonishing resilience, maintaining their cultures and ways of life against the global tide.

Where to go on your next trip with MICEcafe Journey?

Maybe, just maybe - if we could see the world through different lenses. Tuvalu, Nauru and Lesotho are not countries we think about all the time but their views matter every bit as much.

So the next time you look at a world map, pay attention. You may just find a country you have never heard of–living in peace, culturally rich and ripe for exploring.