Rumia

Rumia is a country in Galea, that has participated in NSC continuously since 55th edition.

Geography
Rumia is located in central Galea, a region in northwest of Norigin, known for vast woodlands, low urbanization and low year round temperatures. The country stretches from the Udralicis Bay in the west to the INK desert in the east. Most of it is a heavily forested lowland plain, from the sea to the Ilex Lake, which separates it from the dry eastern end of the country. To the southwest, a mountain range forms a natural border.

Cities are found mostly on the coast, but other than that, the population is evenly spread across the country. Small, isolated settlements dot the landscape of inland areas.

Climate
Rumia has a temperate oceanic climate in the west and central regions, with mild temperatures and precipitation throughout the year. The eastern region has a more continental climate, with hotter summers and colder winters, and lower precipitation levels.

Volcanic activity under the surface of Ilex Lake moderates the overall climate of Rumia, making it warmer and its winters significantly milder than the harsh conditions found in northern Galea.

Western Region

 * January average temperature: 8°C (46°F)
 * July average temperature: 19°C (66°F)
 * Annual precipitation: 1300 mm (51 in)

Central Region

 * January average temperature: 5°C (41°F)
 * July average temperature: 17°C (63°F)
 * Annual precipitation: 1500 mm (59 in)

Eastern Region

 * January average temperature: -2°C (28°F)
 * July average temperature: 26°C (79°F)
 * Annual precipitation: 300 mm (12 in)

History
First traces of human residence in Rumia date two centuries after settlement of northern Galea. However, it is speculated that maritime colonizers of today's Vylkuzeme, Blackmere and Trollheimr had set their foot on the coast of today's Rumia on their way north. First permanent settlers are believed to be pirates, who'd set up colonies along the coast - the bay was outside the sea trade routes, but close enough to reach them quickly. It remained mostly a pirate haven for centuries. Eventually they started to colonize lands along the coast, clearing forests and setting up farmlands.

Further colonization of the heavily forested inland was prompted by increased demand on lumber. By year 1000 bNSC (before NSC), the frontier was at west coast of Ilex Lake.

INK Desert remained uninhabited on Rumia's side (eastern and central parts of it were under control of a Papendink state of the same name) until a gold rush of year 180 bNSC. The gold supply, although sizeable, was drained over a few years by large numbers of hopeful miners. They left behind numerous ghost towns and mining machinery. Today desert's shrinking population lives mostly on scavenging.

During 54th edition of NSC, a rum producer company Rhum Barbancourt launched an initiative to join Nation Song Contest. Despite the fact there has never been country-wide political authority in Rumia, the application went smoothly. The broadcaster registered symbols commonly found in local traditions, including the yellow waves flag that is now easily recognizable around the world. One edition later, Rumia made their first appearance in NSC.

Culture
Rumia's culture values freedom and self-expression above all else. The people of Rumia embrace individualism and creativity, with the country's national dress, music, and dance all showcasing this spirit.

The national dress of Rumia is a mix of medieval and modern styles. Men often wear leather jackets and pants, with tall boots and a wide-brimmed hat. Women wear long pants with intricate embroidery, paired with tunic and tall boots. Both genders wear long scarves that they wrap around their heads or drape around their necks.

Rumian music is a mix of traditional folk songs and modern alternative rock. Traditional folk music features the use of the lute, drum, and fiddle. Dancing is also an important part of Rumian culture, with lively and energetic dances often performed during public gatherings.

Politics
Rumia has a unique political system that blends elements of anarchy and direct democracy. The country has no centralized government or authority, and decisions are made through a system of public gatherings known as the "Folkraad". The Folkraad serves as a platform for citizens to propose and vote on laws, regulations, and policies.

The Folkraad takes place in a large circular arena called the "Thingvellir", where all citizens can gather to participate in the decision-making process. The Folkraad is led by a rotating group of individuals who are chosen by popular vote to serve as moderators.

Economy
Rumia is a capitalist nation with a free market economy. The primary industries in Rumia include fishing, forestry, and mining. The coastal regions are known for their rich fishing grounds, with many small fishing villages dotting the coastline. The lush forests in the west and center of the country are home to a thriving timber industry, with many small sawmills and woodworking shops operating in the area. The mines in the east produce a variety of minerals, including coal, iron, and precious metals. The country has also invested in renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power.

Tourism is also an important part of the economy, with many visitors coming to see the natural beauty of the country. The western coast is particularly popular, with its sandy beaches and rugged cliffs. The forests are also a major draw, with hiking and camping being popular activities. The lake of fire in the center of the country has become something of a tourist attraction, with many visitors coming to see the unique natural phenomenon.

Education and healthcare
Rumia has few universities and no college system. Instead, education is primarily provided through apprenticeships and vocational training programs. The country places a strong emphasis on practical skills and innovation, and encourages individuals to pursue their passions through self-directed learning.

Healthcare and social welfare are also provided by private entities, with no central authority managing these sectors. While the country lacks universal healthcare or welfare, the private sector has stepped in to provide these services, ensuring that the people of Rumia have access to essential healthcare and social welfare programs.

Kameń
Kameń is Rumia's largest city, the capital and the first place most visitors see. It's located at the coast, where it serves as a major port and trading hub. If you're sailing there and from the distance you see something that looks like a giant pile of brushwood, it means you're close. Although Kameń's name comes from an old word for stone, the entire city is made of wood. Built in a typical Rumian fashion, it is a chaotic maze of tall wooden houses, narrow streets and thousands of footbridges that extend far above the street level. Many businesses are located along those footbridges, which greatly confuses newcomers. Maps prove useless when you stand directly under your destination but to get there you still need to get through a labyrinth of staircases and bridges. Kameń is also home to countless pubs and the most famous ones favor locations at the top floors, where, apart from excellent local drink, they offer scenic views on the city and its surroundings.

West Galean Forests
The forest is Rumia's heartland and covers most of the area from the sea to the Ilex lake It is home to majority of country's population and is a basis of its economy. It's an ancient mixed broadleaf/conifer forest, most recognizable by giant trees dating thousands of years. Nowadays, after centuries of human settlement, those iconic giant trees stand next to areas of younger trees, used extensively in Rumia's large lumber industry.

INK Desert
On the eastern edge of Rumia and extending further southeast, lies the infamous INK Desert. It's a mostly flat, rocky desert that was briefly populated en masse during a gold rush two centuries ago. Remaining inhabitants live in half-deserted shantytowns or travel in nomadic groups. Although the desert may seem empty at first glance, it offers distinct culture and entertainment. Deadly car races are a treat for adrenaline junkies. Battle royale fights are invariably popular and most places organize small fights at least once a week. The largest annual events can involve dozens of fighters, span over several days and many kilometers of battle area. Every year hosts invent new challenges for the combatants and incorporate elements from various shows, such as The Amazing Race.

Rockself.com Festival
Rockself.com is a popular music festival that takes place roughly every ten editions. At culmination of the event, main stage is taken by 9 recent NSC participants. Televoting from 12 friendly nations then decides which of them will represent Rumia again in upcoming edition.