COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD:

• Background Notes Current information and maps, provided by the U.S. Dept. of State.
• Maps and Flags.com
• GlobalTrek Scholastic's site for kids; learn about kids from around the world.
• Mr. Dowling's Electronic Passport Be careful of the pop-up ad windows on this site; "X" out of them, do not click on them.
• Library of Congress Country Studies This site is for lesser-known countries; it does not cover France, England, or some African nations. Use the Search button in the middle of the page, or scroll down to the list of countries.
• CIA World Factbook Select a Country from the drop-down menu. Also has great maps!
• LonelyPlanet Destinations The travel guide publisher provides photos and information about most countries
• BBC Country Profiles This British news site provides history, politics and economic background of many countries.
• World Climate Type in a city name and get average temperature, rainfall, latitude and longitude, etc.