Guest Author - Yvonne Russell

When I came across the CIA World Factbook Website, I though I'd stumbled onto something top secret.

On closer inspection, the CIA World Factbook Website, is an almanac style collection of facts about the world’s countries. It gives an “in a nutshell approach” for each country. And yes, the information is from the official CIA Website. It is useful for travel at home or abroad.

Let the Kids Join In
Why not show the kids too? Point out where you're going, or where you've been. There is a flags of the world page. A further feature is a printable flag and map shown for every country. Maps of various countries and regions are included. It also has other Reference maps. One of particular interest shows time zones around the world.

The information is presented under main headings. These are further subdivided. Broad heading include background, business, geography, people and economy. Others are communications, transport, military and transnational information. The data is updated biannually.

Great Trivial Pursuit Questions
The CIA World Factbook Website would appeal to those who want a brief overview of a country. It would also appeal to those who are interested in facts and figures. It is fun just to have that sense of clandestinely peeking into the CIA files. It’s interesting also, to see the sort of information the CIA deems important enough to gather. Some of these facts would make great trivial pursuit questions!

Background Information
In these uncertain times, business travel to some countries comes with an increased risk. Use the CIA World Factbook Website in conjunction with Travel Advisories. It gives a quick “snapshot” of a specific country or region. It does not deal with tourist sites or travel advice. It is strictly background information. The CIA World Factbook Website is definitely worth a look for any travelers who like to get the sense of a country or region, before they go.

New Job?
Of course, if Business Travel is really getting you down, the CIA Factbook Website, may not be what you need. If that is the case, then you can always click through to the main CIA site and apply for a new job.

*CIA WORLD FACTBOOK LINK* is on the top right of this page under Related Links*