United States of Drestein

The United States of Drestein (Stezean; Ferenigde Staten van Drestein; Veshonian; Fereinigte Staten von Drestein; Danish: Forenede Stater af Drestein), commonly known as the United States (U.S. or US) or Drestein, is a country primarily located in the Southern Limmo-Neapolia.

Politics
Drestein functions as a unitary, semi-presidential republic with a system of representative democracy. This form of governance combines elements of both presidential and parliamentary systems, providing a balance of power between the president and the legislature.

In a representative democracy, the citizens of Drestein elect representatives to serve in the legislative body, typically known as the parliament or congress. These representatives are responsible for making laws, representing the interests of the people, and ensuring the government is accountable to its citizens. The parliament plays a crucial role in the decision-making process, deliberating on legislative proposals, debating policies, and exercising oversight over the executive branch.

Within the semi-presidential system, executive power is divided between the president and the prime minister. The president, who is directly elected by the people, serves as the head of state and represents the country on the international stage. The prime minister, on the other hand, is appointed by the president and leads the government, overseeing the day-to-day administration of the state.

This organizational structure allows for a separation of powers and a system of checks and balances, ensuring that no single branch of government becomes too dominant. The president and the prime minister work in tandem to govern the country, with the president providing overall leadership and the prime minister handling the practical aspects of governance.

By combining the principles of representative democracy, separation of powers, and shared executive authority, Drestein's unitary, semi-presidential republic seeks to establish a system that promotes democratic values, protects individual rights, and allows for the participation of citizens in the political process.

Culture
TBA

Biking
Drestein is renowned as a haven for cyclists, offering a cycling-friendly environment that attracts people of all ages and backgrounds. Bicycles are widely embraced as a means of transportation, recreation, and even sports in the country. Whether you are in urban areas or exploring the countryside, you will encounter a vibrant cycling culture and a multitude of individuals pedaling their way through Drestein's scenic landscapes.

One of the key factors contributing to Drestein's popularity among cyclists is its flat terrain. The country's predominantly flat topography makes it an ideal place for biking, as it allows for comfortable and enjoyable rides with minimal effort. Cyclists can traverse the cities, towns, and rural areas with ease, taking advantage of the smooth and well-maintained cycling infrastructure that enhances safety and convenience.

Drestein's commitment to promoting cycling is reflected in its comprehensive network of biking facilities. The country boasts excellent cycling paths, lanes, and dedicated routes that crisscross both urban and rural areas. These cycling infrastructure investments not only make biking more accessible but also prioritize the safety and well-being of cyclists. With designated bike lanes, signage, and supportive measures, Drestein aims to create a favorable cycling environment that encourages more people to choose bicycles as their preferred mode of transportation.

Moreover, Drestein's cycling culture extends beyond practical commuting. Cycling enthusiasts can also enjoy various recreational activities and organized events centered around biking. From leisurely rides along picturesque coastal paths to challenging long-distance cycling tours, Drestein offers diverse opportunities for cyclists to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage on two wheels.

Overall, Drestein's flat terrain, extensive cycling infrastructure, and strong cycling culture make it a welcoming and enjoyable destination for cyclists of all levels. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, embracing the biking culture in Drestein allows you to experience the country's charm, stay active, and immerse yourself in its unique landscapes and communities.

Rager/Woedend (the Dresteinese greaser culture)
The Rager culture is a prominent aspect of the country, and it has garnered considerable recognition, sometimes even leading to international stereotypes associated with the nation. This cultural phenomenon has become closely linked to the country's identity, shaping perceptions and creating a unique image.

The countryside of Dresteine, in contrast to urban areas, is characterized by a sparse population. Due to this rural setting, the inhabitants heavily rely on automobiles for transportation. Since the late-2020s, the people of Drestein have developed a deep fondness for cars, particularly classic Driusonese vehicles. These iconic cars are highly preferred, often seen as a symbol of pride and cultural significance. While Limmo-Neapolian-made vehicles can also be found, Gebonian cars are generally not favored by the Dresteinese.

Within Drestein, there exists a sub-culture known as "rager" or "woedend," which also translates to "pick-up artist" in Stezean, Danish, and Veshonian. This sub-culture serves to keep the Driusonese greaser and rockabilly traditions alive, particularly in the middle-Dresteinese countryside. Drestein is renowned for having a significant number of road-worthy classic Driusonese cars, rivaling all other countries except for Driuso and Zosnea in terms of their prevalence.

In the countryside, where the legal driving age is 18, younger teens often ride custom cars registered as tractors, known as "epa-traktor." This practice showcases the creativity and adaptability of the younger generation in embracing their passion for cars within the constraints of the law.

One notable event that celebrates classic and custom cars is the Power Big Meet, a series of conventions held in various Dresteinese towns. Among these gatherings, the largest takes place in Waldhalle, located in the state of Veshon. These conventions bring together enthusiasts and collectors, creating a vibrant community centered around the shared love for automobiles.

Overall, the Rager culture, coupled with the Dresteinese countryside's affinity for cars, shapes a distinctive aspect of the nation's identity. It fosters a sense of cultural continuity, community engagement, and an appreciation for automotive heritage, making Drestein a notable destination for car enthusiasts and a place where this unique sub-culture thrives.

Natural attractions
Drestein showcases a remarkable array of diverse landscapes, offering a wealth of natural beauty to explore. The state of Steze, in particular, boasts magnificent national parks that epitomize the region's natural splendor. With over 500 national parks, Drestein holds the distinction of having the highest number of national parks in the world. While the abundance of choices can make it challenging to select specific parks, there are some standout destinations that capture the imagination of travelers.

It is worth noting that certain national parks in Drestein, including the largest ones, are situated in remote areas with no direct road access. To reach these parks, off-road driving in a four-wheel drive vehicle becomes necessary. If you plan to visit these more isolated locations, it is essential to make thorough preparations, ensuring you have ample supplies of food, water, and fuel. Additionally, due to the remoteness of these areas, renting a satellite phone is highly recommended despite the associated costs. This precautionary measure can provide a lifeline in case of emergencies and enhance overall safety during your visit.

In addition to national parks, Drestein is also home to conservation parks. While these areas share the same objective of preserving outstanding natural beauty, they may not reach the threshold of national significance required to be declared national parks. Nonetheless, these conservation parks still offer captivating landscapes and contribute to the overall conservation efforts within the region.

Moving to the state of Veshon, its extensive coastline along the East offers a captivating landscape. The Veshonian terrain is characterized by flatness, contributing to wide-open vistas that stretch to the horizon. The climate in Veshon can be harsh, with strong winds and generally mild, chilly temperatures. These weather conditions, combined with the expansive coastal scenery, create a unique and invigorating atmosphere for visitors to experience.

Whether exploring the national parks of Steze or enjoying the coastal landscapes of Veshon, Drestein offers a diverse range of natural wonders to discover. From breathtaking mountains and forests to pristine coastlines, the state showcases the splendors of nature in all their glory, providing memorable experiences for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Stay safe
Drestein has a very low rate of violent crime. The most likely crimes for tourists to experience are car break-ins and bicycle theft. Pickpockets do also tend to be an increasing problem in urban areas in the summer season, but it's still nothing like in larger cities in Limmo-Neapolia. It is always a good idea to look after your belongings, this includes never leaving valuable objects visible in your car and locking your bike safely. It is generally illegal to carry knives and firearms in public places such as on the street.