These "Maps" Are So Terrible, It's Hilarious

This article appeared in pinkpossible.com and has been published here with permission.

We're all used to the classic world map we've seen in classes since we were kids. With Europe and Africa in the center and the clear divide between the East and West, the image has likely been so burned into our brains by our teachers. This may be why we've never considered how the world map might look from a different angle. Here are some funny "maps" that'll make the world a bit different and give you a chuckle.

The World From Antarctica

The Mercator Projection is the world map we're all used to. It allows us to view the world with the North considered "up" and the South considered "down." But the world doesn't have to be seen that way.

Have you ever considered that there technically is no "up" and "down" when you think of the globe? Looking at the world centered on Antarctica, everything here would technically be "up" as we know it. This is also a glimpse of the future where emperor penguins live up to their name.

They Were Doing Something Right Back Then

We often see heat maps or statistical maps online and in the news, showing the spread of specific statistics across an area. Whether it's about voting or what you call a carbonated beverage, it's sure to raise an eyebrow.

In this case, however, it's a bit less important. For those that haven't entirely caught onto the joke, there were never any fatalities related to texting and driving in the '60s since there were no cellphones with which to text. What you can do with statistics is amazing.

Some Comparisons Can Be Both Funny and Interesting

Between Europe and North and South America, it's sometimes easy to forget just how small the entirety of Europe can be. With such a comparatively large population crammed into a comparatively small place, sometimes an entire country can compare.

While it may be the longest country in the world, knowing just how long Chile is can sometimes be surprising. It's pretty impressive that most of the Baltic countries and some other parts of Europe can fit in the entirety of Chile, with some room to spare.

The Classic Accidental Swap

We've all seen someone accidentally swap Australia and Austria around. Many countries with similar names also get swapped around accidentally, like Slovenia and Slovakia or Taiwan and Thailand. So, this map goes out to those who continue to make that mistake.

Of course, Austria is nowhere near Australia; only one has kangaroos, while the other has schnitzels. Don't let the map further confuse you and make you think Austria is in northern Australia. At least both countries are known for their love of drinking.