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.

It is interesting to look at world cities from the perspective of their latitude. It is expected that cities at or near the same latitude will have a similar climate but the results are somewhat surprising when one looks at the world this way. This series will list cities worldwide which are found along the same line of latitude. Keep in mind that the distance between two lines of latitude is approximately 69 miles. Some of the cities in the series are several degrees apart but are still considered the same approximate latitude. For those cities which I have visited, I have included a photo and a short description.

Honolulu, HI, USA — One of the world’s most delightful cities, Honolulu is the gateway into the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.

Waikiki Beach & Diamond Head

Cancun, Mexico — This popular travel destination on the northern Yucatan coast features incredible beaches and access to several intriguing Mayan sites.

Cancun’s Beaches

Mexico City, Mexico — Mexico’s cultural center and one of the largest cities in the world sprawls across the center of the country.

Metropolitan Cathedral

Chiang Mai, Thailand — Thailand’s second largest city is the cultural center of the northern part of the country.

Wat Phra Singh

Mumbai, India — India’s most daunting and bustling city is a maze of traffic and noise.

Hanoi, Vietnam — Vietnam’s capital city is an interesting destination, especially for returning war veterans.