I’m all about supporting and going to under-appreciated and unheard of countries. In 2009, I had a goal to visit a few of the smallest countries in the world by size, but decided instead that I would try something new and different: Look at the bottom of FIFA rankings.
FIFA is the world’s governing body for soccer, or football for 95% of the world. And with over 200 countries and territories included, there’s bound to be a few places that are closer than you’d expect that are non-tourist traps.
The Americas: Not surprisingly, The Americas have a decent amount of places that are in ranked below #175 – most of them being in the Caribbean. Tied for #177 with Nepal, the British Virgin Islands makes up for their standings with sailing, white-sand beaches and off-shore banking. Curiously, it’s a British Territory that has the US Dollar as it’s official currency. Their neighbor, the US Virgin Islands at #195, is part of the same archipelago and a short flight away. In a little quirk – this US Territory drives on the left-hand side of the road. If you wanted a bit more adventure, there’s the Dominican Republic at #179.
Some of you will say “But wait Nick – I’ve heard of and been to these places!” What about the tiny nation of Dominica? At #191, they have a lot to offer, including half of the volcanoes in the Caribbean, the world’s second largest boiling lake and enough eco-tourism to satiate the most seasoned adventurer. Or even Montserrat, tied at #201 with fellow Caribbean state of Anguilla? Montserrat is dubbed the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, and has done its best to recover from the devastating eruption of Soufrière Hills volcano which destroyed half of the island, including its capital. Anguilla is another tropical paradise – white sand beaches, sun and amazing food – which sounds awfully tempting on this frigid Chicago day.
And if all else fails, there’s always Aruba at #193.
Also on the list are the Central American countries of Belize (#176) and Nicaragua (#185). Belize holds a special appeal for those wanting adventure without being adventurous – an English speaking paradise with enough water-based activities to keep you occupied. It’s also next door to Guatemala and close proximity to multiple US gateways. Nicaragua has always interested me – tourism has grown at a rapid rate and has transformed the country. It’s truly off the beaten track, and I want to go down there and take photos of the wildlife.
Next up: The South Pacific. Forget about soccer – we’ve got deserted paradises to visit.
