A postcard from each corner of the World
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation, and it is Africa’s largest economy and a cultural powerhouse. Historically, it was home to great civilizations such as the Nok (around 1000 BC), the Oyo and Benin Empires, and the powerful Sokoto Caliphate. Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960 and has since become known for its ethnic diversity (there are over 250 ethnic groups). Fun facts: Nigeria has over 500 spoken languages, and is the birthplace of Afrobeat music!
Montagne d’Ambre National Park, located in northern Madagascar near Joffreville, is a lush, mountainous sanctuary known for its biodiversity and cool, misty climate. Established in 1958, the park spans over 18,000 hectares of volcanic highlands, dense rainforest, crater lakes, and waterfalls. It’s a haven for endemic species, including the crowned lemur, Amber Mountain rock thrush, and a variety of chameleons and frogs.
Kuwait is a small but wealthy country that has a history dating back to the 17th century when it was a small trading village. The country gained prominence in the 1930s with the discovery of oil, transforming it into one of the world’s richest nations. The country endured a traumatic period during the Gulf War (1990-1991) when it was invaded by Iraq. Today, Kuwait is known for its modern skyscrapers, luxurious lifestyle, and cultural heritage. Interesting fact: the country has no natural rivers or lakes!
Jan Mayen Meteo Station is a Norwegian meteorological and research facility located on the remote volcanic Arctic island of Jan Mayen. It supports Arctic climate monitoring, aviation forecasts, and volcanic observations, especially of the nearby Beerenberg volcano—the world’s northernmost active volcano. Jan Mayen has had no permanent population, only rotating station crews, and it is mostly off-limits to tourists due to its fragile environment and strategic purpose.
French Guiana, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is an overseas department of France, making it part of the European Union! The region is covered largely by Amazon rainforest (over 90% of its land!) and is rich in biodiversity. It hosts over 190 species of mammals, including jaguars, sloths, howler monkeys, and capybaras. Birdlife is abundant, with toucans, harpy eagles, and over 700 species recorded. Reptiles like caimans, anacondas, and iguanas thrive in its rivers and wetlands.
The Saho are a Cushitic ethnic group primarily residing in Eritrea, with a significant population in the country’s Debub (Southern) Region. Historically, the Saho were known as pastoral nomads, with the name “Saho” itself meaning “animal caretaker.” They were cattle herders who controlled crucial caravan routes in the 19th century, fiercely resisting attempts by highland rulers to dominate their territory. Today, many have become sedentary farmers, while still retaining their cultural identity.
I received this postcard pre-stamped inside an envelope.
Equatorial Guinea is located on the west coast of Central Africa and is the only African country where Spanish is an official language. The country consists of a mainland region (Río Muni) and several islands, including Bioko Island, where the capital Malabo is located. Equatorial Guinea is rich in oil reserves – oil exports account for over 90% of its GDP. Interesting fact: Equatorial Guinea has one of the highest literacy rates in Africa.
On this postcard: Playa de Palea, also known as Playa Arena Blanca – a beach located near Luba on Bioko Island.
Not be be confused with Dominican Republic, Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean”, is an island nation in the Caribbean. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, and – fun fact! – it was named by him after the day of the week he sighted it — Sunday (“Dominica” in Latin). Dominica changed hands between the French and British before gaining independence in 1978. The country is most famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and its commitment to eco-tourism.
The Republic of the Congo, often called Congo-Brazzaville, is located in central Africa. It was part of French Equatorial Africa, and gained independence from France in 1960. The capital, Brazzaville, lies on the Congo River opposite Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (which is a different country). It’s main economic driver is oil. It is rich in rainforests and biodiversity, which includes a UNESCO-recognized area home to forest elephants and gorillas.
Dumont d’Urville is a French scientific research station in Antarctica, located on Île des Pétrels, in the Pointe Géologie Archipelago. It falls under the administration of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF). Established in 1956, it was named after Jules Dumont d’Urville, a French explorer who charted the area in 1840. The base operates year-round, serving as a hub for various scientific programs, . It also acts as a logistical point for convoys to the inland Franco-Italian Concordia Station. The station is known for its harsh climate, but also for its abundant wildlife, particularly the large colonies of Adélie penguins and emperor penguins that breed nearby.
