Over 9 million people call Tajikistan home, with Tajiks forming the majority ethnic group. The country’s history stretches back thousands of years, marked by influences from various empires including the Achaemenids, Samanids, and the Timurids. Islam is the dominant religion, shaping Tajik culture and traditions.

Despite its mountainous terrain, Tajikistan is a developing nation with an economy largely focused on agriculture, particularly cotton production. Tourism is a growing sector, with visitors drawn to the country’s stunning mountain scenery, historical sites like the ancient city of Penjikent, and traditional crafts like carpet weaving.

What’s the public’s verdict? Share your thoughts and discuss below!

Over 9 million people call Hungary home, with Hungarians forming the largest ethnic group. The country’s long history stretches back centuries, marked by Roman rule, the rise and fall of the powerful Magyar Empire, and periods of Habsburg dominance. Today, Hungary is a parliamentary republic with a vibrant cultural scene and a strong sense of national identity.

The capital, Budapest, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning architecture, including the Buda Castle District and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Beyond the capital, Hungary offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring the shores of Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, to visiting the historical town of Eger, renowned for its thermal baths and wine production.

What’s the public’s verdict? Share your thoughts and discuss below!

Occupying the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates. Established in 1971, the UAE boasts a modern cityscape alongside a rich cultural heritage. Bordering Oman and Saudi Arabia, the UAE’s strategic location on the Persian Gulf has long made it a center for trade.

The country’s landscape is a fascinating mix of desert plains, rugged mountains, and long coastlines. Abu Dhabi, the capital, is a center for government and finance, while Dubai, the most populous city, is known for its luxurious hotels, iconic skyscrapers, and status as a shopping and entertainment hub.

The UAE’s population of over 9 million people reflects its cosmopolitan nature, with a large expatriate community alongside Emirati citizens. Islam is the dominant religion, and Emirati culture blends tradition with a modern outlook. The UAE has emerged as a major player in the region, attracting visitors for its futuristic architecture, vibrant culture, and diverse experiences.

What’s the public’s verdict? Share your thoughts and discuss below!

Occupying the eastern flank of the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe, Sweden, formally the Kingdom of Sweden, is a nation renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Sharing the peninsula with Norway to the west and bordering Finland to the east, Sweden boasts a population of over 10 million.

The country’s landscape is a tapestry of archipelagos with thousands of islands, vast coniferous forests, and glaciated mountains in the north. Dotting the coastline are major cities like the capital, Stockholm, built on 14 islands and known for its medieval Gamla Stan (Old Town) and impressive royal palaces. Further south lies Gothenburg, the nation’s commercial hub, and Malmö, a center for international trade.

Sweden is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a long history of social welfare programs and a commitment to innovation. It’s a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or a glimpse into a society known for its emphasis on equality and sustainability.

What’s the public’s verdict? Share your thoughts and discuss below!

A transcontinental nation nestled between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Azerbaijan, officially the Republic of Azerbaijan, boasts a unique geographic location. Bordered by the Caspian Sea to the east and the Caucasus Mountains – a natural barrier between Europe and Asia – Azerbaijan is a land of diverse landscapes.

Over 10 million people call Azerbaijan home, with the largest population centers concentrated in the far eastern regions, particularly the capital city of Baku. Azerbaijanis form the majority ethnic group, though the country is home to over 80 ethnicities. Rich in history, Azerbaijan has been influenced by various empires and cultures throughout the centuries.

Baku, a captivating blend of medieval and modern architecture, is a must-see for visitors. Here, one can explore the walled Inner City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which houses the magnificent 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the iconic Maiden Tower, a centuries-old stone landmark. Beyond the capital, Azerbaijan offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring mud volcanoes and snow-capped peaks to delving into ancient traditions and a thriving contemporary culture.

What’s the public’s verdict? Share your thoughts and discuss below!

Occupying the western tip of the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, Portugal is a nation with a long and storied past. Bordered by Spain to the east and north, and bathed by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south, Portugal boasts a coastline of over 1,700 kilometers.

The country boasts a population of over 10 million people and a rich cultural heritage, influenced by various historical periods. From Celtic roots to Roman rule, the Moorish presence, and the Age of Exploration that established a vast colonial empire, Portugal offers a fascinating tapestry for visitors.

Today, Portugal is a modern European democracy known for its stunning natural beauty, charming towns and cities, and a vibrant cultural scene.

What’s the public’s verdict? Share your thoughts and discuss below!