Latitude lines are the parallels which cut across the Earth traveling north and south from the Equator. Because it is latitude which determines temperature and climate, the Earth is divided into three (3) zones, the Tropics, the Temperate Zone, and the Polar regions. The Tropics are defined as the area between 23 1/2 degrees North Latitude and 23 1/2 degrees South Latitude. The temperatures here are always warm and there are no seasons. The Temperate Zone extends both north and south from 23 1/2 degrees to 66 1/2 degrees — this is where most of the world’s population lives. Seasonal changes are noticeable across the year and differences in the amount of rainfall create a number of significantly distinct biomes. Polar regions are relatively cold throughout the year.

It is interesting to see which cities are at the same latitude. Often they have significantly different climates despite their similar distances from the Equator.

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada — The most British of Canada’s major cities, Victoria is located at the eastern end of Vancouver Island.

Victoria

Seattle, Washington, USA — The largest city in the US Northwest is on Puget Sound and is connected with the Pacific Ocean via the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Seattle

Paris, France — The “City of Light” has much less rainfall than Seattle, thank goodness. It allows us tourists to spend more time walking and enjoying this romantic destination.

Luxembourg Palace, Paris

Vienna, Austria — Like Paris, Vienna is a city with elegant architecture and much to see and admire.

Belvedere Palace, Vienna

Munich, Germany — The capital of Bavaria is a popular destination for visitors to Germany because of its abundance of activities and major tourist sights.

Church of Our Lady, Munich

Bratislava, Slovakia — This gem is one of the most charming cities in Eastern Europe. Its very walkable Old Town is a treasure.

Primate Palace, Bratislava