Cartogram

This map is one that looks at housing prices around the world. As you can tell by looking at this cartogram there are major differences throughout the world. People in more developed countries expect more out of their home then those who are from poor areas. Because of this the prices of homes are much higher then places in Africa or South America. The only country in Africa that has much cost for houses is South Africa. With the prices of homes being down in these places there is also less that comes with a home. Most of these houses in poor countries would have electricity or running water in them. Many of them might be made up of aluminum or sticks and pieces of wood. In places such as the United States, Europe and Japan however there is much more wealth and therefore more money is spent on the houses. Almost all of the houses in these countries will have electricity and running water. They are also much bigger then the homes that are in poorer countries.

I think that looking at this map helps remind us that we do take many things for granted and that even now people are living in places that we might consider huts. We should appreciate more what we have and should look to help those around us who might not be as fortunate.

Comparing Population Pyramids

This first population pyramid is one of the country of Germany. Germany is an LDC and is therefore not growing very much. One interesting point about this pyramid is the fact that there are alot less men then women in the 70-85 range. While this might seem strange at first, a little knowledge of history reminds us that many German men were killed in World War II. Also when looking at this pyramid you will notice that there is a large percentage of the population from 30 to 50. Some of the reason for this is because of immigrants from the Arab and African world that has come for economic oppurtunity. Because of all these factors the population pyramid of Germany is much different then the next one which is of Botswana.

This pyramid of Botswana shows that it has not developed much at all so far. Like traditional pyramids of LDC's it is in true pyramid form. The reason for this is because the family size is much bigger in a country like this then a developed one. Also since medical treatment is not as readily available the life expectancy is not as high as in more developed countries.

Probably the most interesting place that I have been to is going to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. Me and my family went out this area several years ago during the summer. Being able to see the mountains and all the natural wildlife was just amazing to see. Yellowstone had a large variety of natural landscape and has some amazing places to visit. Being able to see the hot springs in was pretty incredible. Another highlight was being able to see the different geysers that Yellowstone is known for. To be honest Old Faithful was a bit of a disappointment, however being able to see all the other geysers more then made up for it. On this trip I was able to see some animals that I had never seen before including; buffalo, elk, and moose. Seeing the Yellowstone canyon and its waterfalls was pretty amazing and scary to drive along also. Probably the most amazing part of the trip for me was being able to see the Grand Teton Mountains. It was just so amazing for me to be able to see what God had created and how beautiful it was. I have wanted to go back there sometime and enjoy the natural beauty that is out in that area.