With the presidential election coming up this November, it appears that the race is a close one between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. Given Clinton's history as a career politician and seedy relationships with Wall Street and energy companies, our former First Lady is nobody's perfect candidate - that being said, not voting for her is allowing Trump to take office, a much more dangerous result. This disturbing possibility has caused a number of Americans, including myself, to contemplate their escape plan for the worst case scenario. Thankfully, there are a number of countries we can relocate to in the event that Trump does become our next president.
Costa Rica
Famous among tourists for its beaches and rainforests, this Central American country is one of the most stable and prosperous Latin American nations. Strongly influenced by America, Costa Rica is a democratic republic with a president and constitution; additionally, despite the official language being Spanish, American influence has resulted in an abundance of English-speaking Costa Ricans. Costa Rica is remarkably progressive, offering free college and enforcing a ban on recreational hunting and zoos. With policies reflecting dedicated environmental effort, Costa Rica is considered to be one of the greenest countries in the world.
Canada
Amidst expanses of forestry, tundra, and mountains, Canada has an abundance of both rural and urban areas and a variety of climates. With a strong emphasis on multicultural equality and inclusiveness, Canadian government leans towards a representative democracy and uses a progressive tax system. Health care is publicly funded, poverty is actively combatted, and gun control is strict, resulting in lower crime rates. Highly developed, Canada is home to excellent medical, technological, and astronomical programs and industries.
Germany
With a high standard of living, low unemployment rates, booming markets, and a low level of economic corruption, Germany is the second most popular human migration destination. With a parliamentary republic dominated by Democratic parties, Germany offers universal health care, free college, and protection for the environment. The seventh most visited country in the world has been home to many artists, writers, and philosophers, providing a major international creative scene in its capital city, Berlin.
New Zealand
A developed island nation near Australia, New Zealand has distinctly impressive biodiversity and a high national income. With a parliamentary democratic constitutional monarchy, it is ranked first in government transparency and lack of corruption. Similarly, it is the fourth most peaceful country and dedicates itself to helping impoverished countries. This fascinating nation is at the forefront of renewable energies, especially in regards to hydroelectric and geothermal power.
Sweden
With a democratic political system dominated by the left-wing, Sweden maintains peace and neutrality in foreign affairs, accepts refugees, and participates in a number of humanitarian efforts. Like Germany, Sweden is a member of the European Union, and offers tax-funded education; it is known to be one of the best nations for raising children. Sweden has a competitive mixed economy, dominated by agriculture thanks to its mild climate.