SC4 Devotion Forum Archives

Berania.  Admit it, you have no idea that a country by that name even exists.  It's alright, you aren't alone.  An estimated 98% of the world's population have no idea that in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean lays the giant island-country of Berania, which is unusually strange considering the size of the place. No worries, however, all that is about to change.

You see, part of the reason Berania has been so...shall we say, insignificant, was that the royal family of the country decided, long ago, to shun all civilization and shut themselves from the world, letting nothing in, and if something (or person) was to find a way out, it was never allowed back.  Harsh as it might seem, it was deemed the only way by the rulers of Berania, the Hennaya family, to avoid the catastrophe that befell the island around 700-800 years ago.  That is when invaders from Europe came under the guise of friendship, and once let in, attempted to conquer and colonize the island.  Although the Beranians fought back their invaders and eventually won the "Battle of Liberty", as it is called, the Hennayas felt they could not trust the outside world, and thus came about the laws that forbade any from entering the island.

It's not like they were completely cut off from the world, though. Electricity, running water, medicine, etc. – they were all introduced to the island-country as they were invented.  Cars were imported, and even the internet found its way onto Berania's shores.  Realizing that it would be impossible to keep Berania closed off from the world any longer, the Hennaya family decided to open the countr y up, and its first round of business was to form a government.

In a democratic election, it was Anwar Berdasso who won the first ever presidential election, and he was quick to form a government that would lead Berania into the 21st century.  President Berdasso named Suqara, the country's largest settlement on its southern shores (Pop. 33,000), the capital and seat of all governmental entities.  I know what you are thinking; largest settlement with only 33,000 people?!  Although Berania's population is estimated to be somewhere in the 50 million range, they are scattered throughout the island in settlements that are much smaller than the capital.  Allow me to explain why: in Berania, each settlement is comprised of a family, at most two (although that isn't common), and the settlement usually takes the name of the family.  For example, in central Berania, the settlement of Jodar, which has around 2,000 people living in it, is populated by the Jodar family.  Marriage by the sons of the Jodars will usually be to one the daughters of one of the neighbouring settlements, Carassa or Untabiyyi, which are, you guessed it, populated by the Carassa and Untabiyyi families respectively.  The bride would then move with her new husband to his settlement, and would pay visits in hers every so often.
The only known exception is the city of Suqara.  Other than the royal Hennaya family, which in itself is very small, no family can claim to have the city as its own.  In reality, the city is comprised of immigrants from other settlements who moved there, mostly because it was the biggest trading post of the entire country, with the only seaport, if you want to call it that.  It is more like a pier, but it has served Berania for hundreds of years.

So now, with President Berdasso having taken the full blessing of the Hennayas to lead the country, Berania steps into the fold and is welcomed to the real world.  Its borders have opened up, trade has begun to flourish, and since Suqara is the only access point in the entire country, the city is expected to boom.  The job in front of the new government is massive, much like the size of the country, but Berania has one thing to its advantage: the abundance of untapped natural resources.  This includes oil, gold, diamonds, agricultural produce, uranium, zinc, copper, livestock and fish...the list goes on and on. 

I will leave you with a couple of pictures of Suqara: a night time shot of the center of the town, and a daytime shot which shows the new Berania Government HQ Building, constructed by the Hennayas before the election of President Berdasso, so that any upcoming government would have a central base to operate from.  Enjoy!

Nice starting point for your new MD. Suqara looks like a quaint little town and I look forward to see how you will develop it further.

Hi,

It's nice to see you back here, my friend. Your picture are incredible, as always !!
I'm looking foward to the next update,

Take care,

David

1) The National Progressive Conservatire Party (NPCP) and opposition leader Ismael Henry has launched a scathing verbal attack on the current administration, claiming that enough was being done for the country in general, saying, "Suqara is not the only place in Berania that needs the attention of the government, and unfortunately, the rest of the country has been given the blind eye by President Berdasso's administration."

He continued to state that basic infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, roads, and telecom networks have received minimal funds when it comes to the rest of the country, and challenged the government to make good on its promises of developing the entire country.


2) Ghassan Jasmine, the Health Minister of Berania, recently announced that the government is planning the construction of a brand new health facility on the outskirts of Suqara to help ease the pressure on the Himmtal Medical Clinic on Barren Road.  Doctors at the clinic have been complaining that it was becoming impossible, given their current facilities, to serve the public given the number of patients, which has increased nearly 400% the past 2 years.

The new hospital, tentatively called the Borsa General Hospital, is scheduled for completion 16 months after the ground-breaking, and will cost approximately $30 million.  It will be the biggest project undertaken in the history of Berania upon completion.

The Health Minster also announced the government's intention of constructing 26 medical facilities around the country to help make sure all of Berania's people have proper access to healthcare.

All health facilities in Berania are owned by the government.  It is currently illegal to operate private health practices or clinics, with the law stating that all health personnel are required to be employed by the government.  Healthcare is also not free in the country, although it does come at reduced costs, with several types of facilities open for potential patients to negotiate with the government.




3) President Berdasso was at the opening of the first official hotel in Berania, the Grand Hotel, which is 100% owned by the government of Berania.  Situated opposite of the Berania Government HQ Building, the five star hotel will cater to all diplomatic and VIP visitors to the country, as well as tourists who have a bit of money to spend.  There are 433 rooms, which include 16 suites, and 2 presidential suites for the super wealthy.  Other facilities include a rooftop pool covered by glass, a 24 hour state of the art gym, 3 restaurants, a casino, and the first nightclub to begin operation in the country.

The Grand Hotel also features a huge conference hall which will host the first ever Berania Trade Forum, with dignitaries from 26 different countries expected to attend.  Potential trade and investment opportunities will be discussed, with hopes that the Berdasso administration will be able to forge some permanent deals that will help stimulate the Beranian economy.

The Grant Hotel cost approximately $24 million upon completion.





The VCD is the biggest and oldest construction company in Berania and the main contractor of the government, having constructed and developed both the Berania Government HQ Building and the Grand Hotel.  It has also taken the contract for what will be the biggest project in Beranian history, the Borsa General Hospital.

The company was founded in 1988 by Sam Beard and 4 other employees, and some of the first projects Beard received were the construction of personal housing and land development.  Since then, VCD has grown into the elite construction company in the country, employing a total of 237 people.  Its main office is situated on Barren Road in Suqara.




The Henayya family rise to power is traced back to the early 14th century, when they led a campaign, at times bloody, the united most of Berania under one banner.  With help from Muslim explorers who arrived from Northern Africa, the Henayyas were able to accomplish their mission, proclaiming themselves as the royal family of Berania after it was all said and done.

When the Muslims arrived in Suqara, their religion was embraced by the Henayya family, which at the time were a small but influential family in Suqara and the surrounding area.  In the name of Islam, the Hennayas began spreading the religion, and most people willingly and happily converted.  Before Islam came to Berania, it was mostly a land filled with Pagan beliefs.  In the span of a few short years, word has spread of the religion and the Henayya family through Berania, but not all were happy with the situation.

The biggest battle fought was against the Killari family of the north, which had built its fortune capitalizing on certain pagan rituals, of which it was believed only they could perform.  The Killaris sabotaged and attacked a neighbouring village in hopes of scaring off the Henayya family, but it only served to further fuel them, and in response to the attack, they formed an army that attacked the village of Killari.  It is believed that over 2000 people died in that battle.

After most of the country had converted to Islam, the Henayya family was proclaimed as rulers of Berania, with their base in Suqara.  Although most of the population are Muslims today, Beranian society is very open and accepting, as witnessed by the availability of alcohol, as well as the presence of casinos and bars.

Wow, this is great. I love the detail in your writing. Your pics are quite nice too. The color enhancement gives a very nice effect. What is it you are changing regarding the color if I might ask?

Geoff

Hey !! Your back, I was seeing your last MD at the moment, its truly impressive.
As for these updates, they looks splendid, I like your way to built suburbs. I'm very amazed by the first night picture, it's awesome !
Looking forward to more !
Take care,
-Arthur. :thumbsup:

Wow, way to start with a bang! Your city looks amazing! My favorite image in the last update was the second one, it just looks so perfect... though the only part that isn't perfect that I just noticed is that the road has a double yellow line at intersections, but a white dotted line everywhere else. Otherwise, amazing job!  :thumbsup:

Wow! Its great to know some of you guys still remember me from my old MD, Qumma, and its equally nice to know that others are impressed! It honors me, honestly. Its great to have an MD back up.  The reason Qumma wasnt continued had everything to do with RL...its been a rough year and a half.  Im enjoying myself with this new one, and hopefully everyone will too. Thanks again.

oops!  thatre are trees plopped on your soccer field!  hehe

Very nice photos though

Really nice backstory and the pics are amazing  :thumbsup:

Looking forward to more.  ;)

Wow....

I still remember you!  I'm sure we all do.  You have een greatly missed, if not by everyone, at least by most and me especially!!  I am super happy to see you back again and you are off to a fantastic start.
I hope you are here for a while.
Robin  :thumbsup:

Great MD so far , i like the beaches :thumbsup:

wow, you really got excellent city building skills! Keep up the fantastic work!

Nice start!  You've got some neat looking lots tucked away in there! 

Wooowww, a resounding start of MD! I was impressed with the realism of the images!

Nedalezz, what a joy it is to see you  back at SC4D and playing the game once again! Hope things are going well for you.

Berania is beautiful – I really like the white houses with a touch of red among them. Your night shots have always been pure eye candy, and I see you're already placing some wonderful BATs in strategic places. Definitely looking forward to following your MD in the weeks and months to come.

Welcome back... :)
Joan

Fabulous work, my friend- it is so great to see you back.  I was really sad when Levante bit the dust- keep this up for a year or two and I'll get over it.  I'll be watching for B. Yunos.

Masterful residential pics, that's for sure.


David

That's great to see you back nedalezz!  :thumbsup:

Beatiful photos and a great story  &apls

Quote from: calibanX on June 21, 2009, 08:37:48 AM
(...) The color enhancement gives a very nice effect. What is it you are changing regarding the color if I might ask?

Geoff

I'd like to know it too  :)

Adam

moin nedalezz,

what a nice little city, it must be lovely to live in! can't wait to see the settlements around it ...

b_schlurf

Welcome back to the MDs! And a fine new one you have for us. I like the variety of interesting BATs you use in a very appealing way. Very nice start!

Wow, thanks for the great response! Its amazing to see that after such a long time, Jmouse, Schul, Dedgren, rooker1, and even the great Ennedi (!!) remember my MD :) Thanks for the amazing reception!


In the 18th century, it was not uncommon to have a wooden pier serve as the main port of a country, nor was it uncommon in the mid early to mid 20th century for a country's main airport to be no more than a dusty landing strip incapable of holding more than 2 airplanes at a time.

This is the beginning of the 21st century, however, yet we find Berania's main port in Suqara to be no more than that same wooden pier described above, and its main "international" airport no more than paved strip designed more for Cessna aircrafts than Boeing jetliners. 

We have heard the argument hundreds of times:  why spend money developing a new port and airport when the ones we have now meet our current demands comfortably?  My direct response to that argument is this famous saying: If you build it, they will come.  How are we supposed to attract international airlines to Berania if we cannot accommodate them?  How are we supposed to encourage trade when we don't have the facilities to handle cargo ships? 

The current administration announced late last year its plans on building a new seaport, but till now, we have seen nothing develop.  Even the location of the new seaport remains a mystery: just how serious they are about getting it done this presidential term is also questionable.  What is clear, however, is that Berania's potential as a trade center will go unfulfilled until we can get some adequate facilities to support our growing and future needs in that department.



Overall economic growth in the 1st Quarter of this year has been registered at 13.2%, easily exceeding the amount predicted, but foreign investment remains limited, something which must be improved if the country is to become economically strong.

Although WSthe percentage indicates solid improvement, it is not across the board.  Exports, although never a sizable amount, has decreased almost 65%, and with no manufacturing sector to speak of, it is unlikely that number will increase until the much talked about oil production facilities and refineries get off the ground.  Unfortunately, they haven't even passed the planning stages yet.

What is encouraging, however, is the amount of currency being spent.  With the Kaffa, Berania's local currency, pegged to the US dollar, the currency rate is current at K1 - $1, and is likely to remain that way unless the government decides to peg it to other currencies as well.  The amount of Kaffa (both plural and singular) being spent in the market by local consumers has played a major factor in the growth of Berania's economy.





The Berania National Bank (BNB), which is fully owned by the Beranian government, has announced its K22 million expansion plan set to be initiated later this year, hoping to further stimulate the growing economy of the country by reaching out to the rural areas of the country.

Already a heavy promotional campaign has been launched to help residents of rural villages and communities understand what the bank has to offer them, and also to get it out there that the BNB plans to open 26 new branches across the country.  Its HQ and current only operational branch is located on Hammat Road. 

Opposition leader and NPCP head Ismael Henry has accused the government of trying to control its citizens through this method of control, as he called it, and by increasing reliance on the central government for help.  He suggested privatizing the bank, which would prove, he said, the government was not attempting to quietly suppress the citizens of Berania.  The accusation was laughed off by Berania National Party (BNP) spokesperson Khalil Black, who responded by saying the banking sector in Berania was free and open, claiming private banks were more than welcome to operate in the country.  He continued by saying no one is under any obligation to work with the BNB, but it was the governments hope that the citizens of Berania would use it as a source of aid to help them develop their lives and businesses.





Some of the most exotic fish in the world can be found off the shores of Berania, leading to large variety of different types of seafood dishes in the local cuisine.  Fishing has been the main provider of food for coastal settlements, and is still the livelihood of several who reside by the sea till this day.

Although the government has talked about unionizing the fisherman in order to give them a voice, there hasn't been any progress on the issue given the lack of local enthusiasm in the coastal settlements.  The hope of the local government has been to help develop the fishing industry in order to capitalize on the rich variety of seafood which could be used for export, benefiting the local economy and the fishermen directly.

What could help speed up the issue and help the fishing industry grow is the construction of the planned fishermen's marina on the outskirts of the Omtarra (pop. 2,455) some 400 kilometers east of the capital city of Suqara.  The project has an estimated cost of K3 million, but the potential benefits far outweigh the costs.  It would also do wonders for the local economy of Omtarra and the 4 settlements that would be situated near the marina.

I love you're use of C.P. and W2W's. You've truly out done you're self.

The only word who came to my head when i see that is - Outstanding !  And I think it's the only word to describe your work my friend ! Seriously, i really love your use of Cp's houses, you made them looking more fabulous as the original with the sandstone sidewalk. Also, the beach is nice and it's a nice spot to the future fisherman marina. at last, the history you made with the picture and the update (Also in your last MD) is a great touch. You're a big source of inspirations for me. But the thing I love the most in that update was the night overview, it looks amazingly real !
Looking forward for sure.
Take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:

Interesting plans they have for investments. And the images are looking very good.

Your updates always impress. Your usual high quality work is a pleasure.... can't wait for more!

My friend, fantastic update!!! Great pictures, guy!!!  &apls &apls &apls

Once again, thanks for all the wonderful comments. I think its safe to say I speak for all MDers when I proclaim that the comments really make a world of difference for us!


While alot of criticism has been placed on Berania's first ever democratic, central government, it cannot be argued that President Berdasso's administation's investment in attempting to develop the rural areas of the country has begun to show results.  Healthcare has begun reaching even the tiniest settlements of Berania, and the Berania National Bank (BNB), which is 100% owned by the government, has already opened most of its 26 planned rural branches.

Case in point is the village of Jawlatta; with a population of barely 2,000, it has recently witnessed the opening of its own medical clinic and its own BNB branch, situated just across from the central village mosque.  Nestled away in the Goraffi Mountains, at an altitude of 1,250 meters, the area around Jawlatta sparkles with natural beauty, and although the town itself is considered low-middle class, its surroundings do not come any richer when its comes nature.  The village is tucked away in a small valley between two peaks, and now that development is underway to provide it with facilities, it is hard to see such a beautiful area not be capitalized on by the Tourism Ministry.

Aside from the obvious touristic draw, such an area, of which there is quite a few of in Berania, could potentialy be a gold mine when it comes to investment and real estate.  Perfect weather during the summer is followed by snow and wintery beauty in the colder seasons, while the colours that come out during spring could literally take one's breath away.  With more development, more emphasis on infrastructure, and proper marketing, such an area could be a haven for those wanting a beautiful summer house setting and for those just looking at investing in land and property.  While such prospects might not happen overnight, there is no reason to believe that they couldnt.





Before I leave you, here are a couple of shots from the capital of Suqara, which recently hit 50,000 people!

The first picture is a M-A-S-T-E-R-P-I-E-C-E ! Seriously, i really love that picture, you do an excellent job with these houses and their disposition. Also, the mix maxis trees and Cp's and jeroni's one is well done. The night shot make it more awesomeness ! And, the two others pictures are good too, I really love the beach you done with the tree fence. Also, nice work with the squared houses development !
Looking forward to more.
take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:

Wonderfull Update.
Your city is really splendid. I love the 3rd picture with the beach and the neighbours. The residentiel district is really splendid and very realistic, with a splendid use of bats of c.p, MattB325 and SG. I find the use of mosque is original in your city.

Vivien

Wonderful update, nedalezz, but that's no surprise! The city is growing fast and looking very good in the process. And the neighborhoods are delightful. I've never been brave enough to try out the cobblestone streets, but yours look great. Excellent choice of BATs, too.

Later...
Joan

Really you are very talented!!! Impressive!!!  &apls &apls &apls

I love cities which are on this site, and I can that this is my seconf favourite city!! It's just fantatstic, I love this sububurb's style, which is just beautiful, and like Art has said, it's just outstanding!! I fall of my chair when I see thoose pics &apls &apls

Guillaume :thumbsup:

   
The Honassa region, which is dominated by the Honassa Mountain Range, is without a doubt one of the most beautiful parts of the country.  Although Berania's population is estimated to be around 50-60 million, less than 2% of that call Honassa their home.  Found in the northwestern part of Berania, its magical beauty is surpassed only by its untouched serenity.  Honassa is nature at its finest.

There are 6 settlements in all of Honassa, with the rest of population living in what is classified as rural areas.  The largest of these settlements, Farayya, has a population of approximately 4000 residents, almost all of which make their living from agriculture of herding livestock, both of which respresent the how the local population lives.  The town of Farayya sits at the foot of Mt. Hasaniya, which towers over the town, reaching almost 5,000 meters in height.  It is also the tallest mountain in the entire mountain range, and the second highest in Berania.


Not much is known about the history of the area, but given the size of Farayya in comparison to the other settlements, it is believed that the Farayya family have been the dominant force for atleast a few centuries.  There are no recent reports of battles or wars, however, and much like the nature around them, it seems the local population has lived in relative peace.


A recent visit by a Swiss delegation to Berania to Honassa lead to enquiries about turning the town of Farayya into a possible location for a ski resort.  The issue was swiftly but politely declined by President Bardasso's administration, who instead stated that they would rather focus on developing the basic infrastructure of the country first.

 I will leave you with some pictures of the Honassa in all of its natural glory. Enjoy!

Through this introduction I think that your next update, about the region of Honassa, will be something amazing!

Interesting update Nedalezz, the history is nice and greatly done, it was a pure pleasure to read it. And it's sure that the Honassa Mountain Range looks amazingly fantastically extremely naturally beautiful !
Take care,
-Arthur. :thumbsup:

Beautiful pix and interesting history of the area. Hope your business trip is successful and you return home safely.

Looking forward to the next update of Berania...
Joan

certainly an amazing cj. super realistic shots, especially the night one, which I'm still trying to figure out. care to enlighten me? hehe

anyway. fantastic cj thus far.  &apls  &apls

As mentioned in the first mini-update on the region of Honassa, the town of Farayya is the largest settlement there and has recently been voted to be the seat of the region as well. The population of Farayya currently stands at around 4000 residents in and around the town, with most making a living off of the land, whether it be agriculture or herding livestock. 

In recent times, however, alot of wealthy families from other parts of Berania have started acquiring land and building summer homes in the town due to the remarkable beauty of the area.  This has also helped the local economy grow, and now with the town having its own Bank of Berania branch, as well as the biggest health clinic outside of Suqara, land prices in Farayya proper have doubled.  In fact, in a recent survey, it was stated that the cost of land in Farayya per square meter is among the most expensive in the entire country.

The climate in Farayya varies greatly between summer and winter.  During the summer months, the temperature averages between 25-28 degrees Celcius, but in the winter months, the average drops to around -10 degrees Celcius.  Snow begins falling from late November-early December, and doesnt melt usually until the month of April, much like the weather in New England in the USA.  Only a few hours from the town lay some of the most beautiful natural sights in Berania, something President Berdasso's administration has expressed interest in promoting, both to the local population and potential overseas tourist.

Although Berania is predominantly a Muslim country, the majority of Farayya's residents are Christians, which explains the Church in the center of town, opposite the new BNB building.  Although there is no factual evidence to back it up, the favored theory is that the ancestors of the Honassan families originated from Western Europe, mostly France and Spain several hundred years ago.  The language spoken in these parts is a dialect of Beranian, and although the written language is the same, the spoken language differs slightly from the mother Beranian tongue. 

As of right now, Farayya has little more than a mini-market to go along with the BNB branch as far as commerce goes, and the government is in no rush to expand on that. More than other areas, Honassa has alot of regulations set up to protect the natural setting of the area, with plenty of zoning and construction laws set up specifically for the area.

I will leave you with a couple of simple pictures of the town itself. Enjoy!

moin nedalezz,

another neat looking arrangement you showing here!  :thumbsup: ... well i guess one could call this a talent!  :P
just lovely!

b_schlurf

I like that mix of trees Nedalezz, you done a good job with the maxis one and the red. the general aspect of the city is great and the layout good too!
Take care,
-Arthur :thumbsup:

Whoa! Amazing mountains! As a mountain-loving freak myself, I would love to see that recreated in SC4!

I also like that small town! Very realistic! Not to mention colourful!  ;D

Hope all's going well on that business trip!

M

Your images are quite beautiful and your cities have a nice feel to them.  Looking forward to what's in store.  :thumbsup:

I just wanted to take the time out and saw SORRY for the lack of personal replies - As I have mentioned before, I am in the middle of a business trip :(

I wanted to specifically answer Dizflip - What about the night shot did you want to figure out :)

Joan, Art128, Thomas Neto, djvandrake, M4346, beutelschlurf, Sciurus, Earth Quake, Shulmanator, Kwekalaar, rooker, Enide, Simpson, CalibanX, Splime, evertonforever 1, Connor, Nexus4Jersey, feliwi, battlecat, dedgren...Thank you so much for taking the time and commenting. Much appreciated, all of you!

moin nedalezz,

don't you worry, sometimes we can live without a personal reply!  ;D
you just keep up your excellent Diary ...

b_schlurf

Yeah my friend!!! Another great update in your MD!!! Great!!!  &apls &apls &apls

Farayya looks like a peaceful community to live in. :thumbsup:

I'm incredibly impressed.

The beautiful composition of physical structures and nature is absolutely superb. You have a fantastic talent. Shall be following this very closely :)

&apls

Suqara – The Berania Interstate 101, more commonly known as I-101, was officially opened for traffic this morning in a ceremony attended by President Berdasso, who lead a motorcade through the double-lane road before turning back and heading to the Berania Government HQ Building.  I-101 will connect southern Berania to the northern part of the country upon completion, with a starting point in Suqara and ending just outside the town of Bushna on the northern Beranian coast. 

The government has already spent K26 million developing the Interstate road, but the overall cost of the project is not yet clear.  Inside of Suqara, I-101 is expected to be the center of development in the city, with the Borsa General Hospital almost completed, alongside the Mohammed Ali Mosque and Park, which President Berdasso called, "the new centrepiece of Suqara."

The price of land alongside the new road has more than quadrupled, with the price of a square meter hovering around the K1000 mark and expected to continue to rise.  About 4,000 square meters was recently acquired by the Days Inn hotel chain, and construction on their new, 250-room project is already underway.





Suqara – Undertaken just over 12 months ago, the Borsa General Hospital project has just about neared completion, and earlier estimates that it would cost approximately K130 million have proven exaggerated, with the real cost near K100 million.  The hospital will be the first building to begin operations on I-101 when it opens next month. The BGH is 100% owned by the government and it is expected to employ up to 1200 people.  It can hold a maximum of 8000 patients, although estimates suggest that the maximum expected occupancy given the local area's population will not exceed 50%.

The construction of the hospital has been marred with controversy, with the center of the issue being the law that states all private health clinics or practices as illegal.  According to Beranian law, all health clinics, hospitals, or practice facilities must be owned by the government, and that has caused a lot of problems with licensed doctors and health practitioners, who have claimed that the government was enforcing that law as to control their wages and salaries.

The Beranian Health Minister, Mr. Ghassan Jasmine, has denied such allegations, saying, "The reason that law exists is to protect the people.  No one wants an unqualified person responsible for their health, and we're making sure that the Beranian people will never have to worry about that.  The salaries being paid to doctors and all those involved is very fair, so the issue is not about the actual law, but perhaps about greed."

To counter the measures that have been taken by the government, the Private Healthcare Association of Berania (PHAB) was recently formed by disgruntled doctors and their kin, and have threatened to go on strike if the Berdasso administration did not agree to sit and talk to them about solving the current problems that they view as unjust.  There has been no response from the Health Ministry about the issue, and a spokesperson has even stated that the PHAB is nothing more than a group of unruly educated hooligans trying to upset the peace.




Suqara – Berania is a predominantly Muslim country, and Suqara, the capital city, is set to become the center of Islam in the nation thanks to the construction of the Mohammed Ali Mosque.  Designed by architect Hussein Al-Husseini, the government endorsed project has cost K43 million, with an additional K6 million spent on the park behind the Mosque itself, featuring a lake.
Situated on I-101, just north of the Borsa General Hospital and opposite the new Days Inn Hotel, the Mohammed Ali Mosque will be the largest and most expensive in the country, dwarfing the Imam Mosque in the town of Khodor in central Berania.  The Mosque is set to open to the general public alongside the Borsa General Hospital in around a month's time.





Suqara - With the influx of foreign nationals starting to call Suqara their home (most of which are diplomats or part of diplomatic missions/teams), a construction boom of sorts has taken place just off of the 101, with a 4 apartment buildings constructed near the Borsa General Hospital and the Mohammed Ali Mosque. Volta Real Estate is responsible for 3 of the buildings, but the most luxurious one, called Astoria, is the work of a newcomer: ICON Properties.

Founded only a year ago, the Astoria represents ICON Properties first big venture into the Beranian market, unlike Volta, who are the oldest and largest development and contracting company in the country.  The Astoria is 10 stories high, making the tallest residential building in all of Berania, and features a swimming pool deck on the rooftop. It has not released any of the apartments for sale as of yet, instead choosing to rent them out.  The building has a total of 36 apartments - 4 on the first 8 floors, and 2 on the last floors. The smaller apartments are approximately 200 sq. meters in size, and are renting out for an average of K1200 a month, while the bigger apartments on the last floors are 380 sq. meters in size, and are renting out for K2500 a month, easily the priciest in the city. Occupancy is currently at 100%, with most of the leasees foreign nationals.

The construction of the Astoria cost ICON Properties approximately K2.76 million, which includes the price of the land. The building sits on approximately 1500 sq. meters of land, which cost the real estate company K1.2 million, although estimates suggest if the land was to be sold today, it would not go for less than K2 million.





It remains to be seen how Berania has been positively affected Since Berdasso took the Presidential Office 2 years ago as the country's first ever democratically elected leader.  The immediate argument is to point out all the development that has taken place, and for the sake of a little organization, let us list the Berdasso administration most noted so-called accomplishments:

1)  Supporters of the of the Berania National Party (BNP) lead government are quick to point out the investment in healthcare that they have made since they took over. With 26 facilities open around the country, and the new K100 million Borsa General Hospital in Suqara slated for operation beginning next month, one cannot argue that there has been a good amount of progress when it comes to national healthcare.  But isn't it a right of Beranians to have access to basic healthcare?  Should we really be applauding the government for providing us with a basic necessity?  Most of the health clinics are little more than large houses with primitive medical instruments.  Patients pay a premium price for very ordinary healthcare, and the government will not even consider setting up some kind of financing for healthcare.  That is right, you pay upfront or receive no attention from our health professionals.  Adding insult to injury, prices for treatment continues to rise due to the fact that the government has, by law, created itself a monopoly.

In a recent attempt by professionals in the field to fight this absurd law, they formed a union, only to be shrugged off by the Berdasso administration as nothing more than a greedy mob looking at earning a few more bucks.  Until the government can start providing a solid system of financing for people in need of treatment, and until private, albeit supervised, health practices and clinics are legalized, we should be expecting more in this department, not applauding them for giving us a basic human right.

2)  A lot of commotion is being made at the advancement of the economy and the strong growth it is experiencing.  The truth of the matter is, you could put a monkey in charge of the Beranian economy and it will experience growth.  It is a matter of logic; the country has been locked up for several hundred of years, so the immediate effect of opening up to the world is going to be economic growth!  The government is not responsible for this growth even though they love to take credit for it every chance they get.

But take a deeper look at the details, and you will notice not enough is being done to help the economy maintain its strong growth after the initial stage has passed.  In fact, the Berdasso administration, yet again, is using the current situation to their advantage to fatten their own pockets.  Can you name another bank in Berania other than the government owned Berania National Bank, which, incidentally, is headed by BNP members?  No, you can't, and you know why? Because no other banks exist!  Although there is no legal way the BNP can stop private banks from operating, the fact that none have despite the strong economic growth suggests that there is more to the story.  National Progressive Conservative Party leader, Mr. Ismael Henry, suggested that the BNP led government have purposely set up a BNB branch in many towns in order to have the population rely on them, and while that theory was laughed off by the government, perhaps it should not be taken so lightly.

Once you leave Suqara, there is little development and little to suggest a strong, growing economy.  It seems all the money being made by the government is going to fix up the new capital city, but what about the rest of the country?  Are they not entitled to the same benefits being afforded to the residents of Suqara?  Or are 60,000 people more important than the 60 million that live outside of the city?

3)  A lot of promises were made during the presidential campaign 2 years ago, and a lot of promises are still being made.  Everything, apparently, is being worked on.  But my question is: Where? How? When?  Take for example the issue of the new seaport: It was only a few weeks ago that the location was disclosed (about 50 kilometers west of Suqara, near the village of Koraitam), yet when you go there, there is no nothing but empty, albeit beautiful, sandy coastline.  Did the government not put "aside" several millions of Kaffas for this very same project?  Where is that money?  Better yet, where is our much needed seaport?  If they haven't noticed, Berania's economy is growing.  How is it going to be supported with an international seaport capable of handling trade?

Another great example of promises not being kept: the promise of higher education.  Two years ago, President Berdasso continuously stated his aim of developing a first class university within the limit of his 5 year presidential term.  He's nearly halfway through, and has absolutely nothing to show for that specific promise.  Or is it that he forgot about his peoples' needs when he started seeing the Kaffas?  Either way, not only does Berania not have a single internationally recognized university, but its secondary education institutes are overcrowded.  Credit where credit is due; the education and teaching is of a fine standard, but it doesn't count for much when you follow that up by filling up schools with over 50% of their recommended capacity.  Again, families pay top Kaffa in Berania to send their children to government owned educational institutes, so it is only fair the teachers molding the minds of their young be well qualified.

The bottom line is this: the Berdasso administration has not done a good job, it has done the bare minimum of what is expected of it, and to make matters worse, have quite a bit of shadiness surrounding certain policies and "investments".  It doesn't help that the government is overwhelmingly dominated by the BNP, but given the way things are going, that should not be the case in 3
years.  We should rightfully expect more of our leaders, and here's hoping they can get their act together for the well being of Berania.

Yaser Timson is a freelance reporter for the Suqara Times.

As usual, your update are magnificent my friend, the interstate 101 (as know as I-101) area is great, I like the mosque park and the details you've put in there. The use of SAM streets is fantastic, it fits perfectly with the style you developed.
Take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:

Now that is a really nice picture! I'd love to live near a beach like that.

I would like to be at that beach for relaxing, thanks for sharing it !
-Arthur. :thumbsup:

The majority of Berania's economy depends on agriculture, so it comes as no surprise that vast amounts of the country's plains are made up of farmlands. The pictures below were taken in the area of Corral, in central part of eastern Berania, which is famous for its fruits, especially apples, oranges, and grapes.

I love the beach, especially large ones like you have up there. :thumbsup: I like the last agricultural picture, too. I don't see too many cj's use pictures like that. Really unique.

Beautiful, I adore the tree lined rural roads, so much detail and flora, gorgeous work :)

Great farms land there my friend, looks very realistic with these trees along the street. The last photo looks like a drawing, good job !  :thumbsup:

Wow this is pure eyecandy!

Awesome!!! Your MD is fantastic!!!  &apls &apls &apls

That's just magnificent!!! &apls &apls &apls

Guillaume :thumbsup:

I can't clall this a MD, this is Arts!

Very amazing pictures here :thumbsup:
Its many good and moody pictures and you have managed to create a good style with the buildings, they fit well together. The trees are also placed well together. Your MD is very inspiring.

Beautiful work!  I really like that beach in your "glorified bump", I'm certainly not complaining in the slightest with a shot like that! 

Love your work on the farms in your mini update as well, you've done a lovely job with the flora along those roads! 

Those rural pics are absolutely fabulous! :thumbsup: :o &apls Wonderful job!

 &smrt Glued to the screen after those pictures, just wonderful

Suqara – Situated right next to the Mohammed Ali Mosque on I-101, the Museum of Beranian Culture and History is a celebration of the rich past of the country, presented within the grounds of the museum as a showcase to visitors from wherever they may hail.

A pet project of Interior Minister Yasser Al-Bahrawi, groundbreaking on the project began nearly 2 years ago, and about K22 million later, the MBCH, for short, is now open with a full gallery of display, including a section for current Beranian artists who wish to display their work to the public.

The grounds of the MBCH also feature a lovely lake alongside a replica of a traditional Beranian worship building found in many of the villages and towns of the country.  Events, such as the Beranian Festival of Art and Music, are being planned throughout the year in order to promote both the museum and the purpose it serves.







The latest development by Volta Construction and Development, Green Shades Residences is a residential development of 3 buildings, each 10 stories high, situated just east of the Museum of Beranian Culture and History.  The project is the largest residential development undertaken by VCD, itself the largest development company in Berania, in its history.

Popular with the expat community living in Suqara, Green Shades was bought out mostly by locals who in turn now rent out the apartments to those living in them.  About 87% of the apartments are rented, with only a few of the original buyers actually living in them.  A square meter was sold for an average of K1250, with apartments of 130, 180, and 250 square meters available.





Finally, we leave you with some shots from around Suqara. Enjoy!

Lovely work as usual my friend, I like the last picture a lot ! Green shades residence looks wonderful too, I like the way you've make the area around it and the Museum of Beranian Culture and History.
Take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:

That second to last pic is superb!  :thumbsup: You have created a beautiful city.  &apls

Yeah my friend, awesome update again!!!  &apls &apls &apls

this is so beautiful Theres no words to express it  :thumbsup: Job Well done.

Very Nice, once again :thumbsup:

I'm not sure what I like best about this new update. For one thing, every photo is so vibrant and full of life. The details you've included are amazing, not to mention your talent for choosing and using stunning BATS. The first pic is worth staring at for a long time – simply beautiful.

You've done an excellent job of choosing and placing trees. As always, the neighborhoods are well made and inviting. The only thing I would question can best be seen in the last photo – the blue and green water placed so close together is a bit bothersome. But don't get me wrong, you know I've always been a huge fan of your great work and this update is just superb!

Later...
Joan

nedalezz, I am sorry I haven't seen this yet.

This is a wonderful MD, and you might like to know I constantly read Qumma all the way through, but I was not around at the time of updating.

Can't wait for more,

Ethan

Hey all! Thank you for the very kind words and comments! As some of you know, I have an extremely busy schedule, and Im in the United Arab Emirates right now on business, which will explain the lack of updates. However, one should be coming soon! Thank you again.

 Stunning update! I don't really know which pic I like the most, all of them are awesome! I think you should enter the Picture competition with one of them!

Now, wow, your mastery in the gameplay really shows  :thumbsup:, and the subtle enhancements just makes the pictures visually appealing.

The 'burbs look great! Such nice mixture with the trees too.

The area around I-101 has been the target of some heavy residential and commercial development the past year as land prices in the area have shot up, doubling in value.  Just north of the Museum of Beranian Culture and History, a commodities wholesale market has emerged, stretching all the way to the edge of the city. Traders have favoured the area because I-101 has become the gateway in and out of Suqara, and the market is the first area of the city visitors will pass through coming into the city, saving potential customers the trouble of being stuck in traffic.

The small wholesale stores are situated alongside several cafes and restaurants, and with most of the area made up of small buildings, offices occupy the floors above the stores. The growing wholesale commodities market has also brought in much needed income to the city, spurning construction booms in the area as well as boosting the banking sector. Currently, there are 2 private banks planning to open their first branches in Suqara, also along the I-101 stretch going out of the city. The approval given by the Beranian government to the banks was applauded by most politicians in the country, including the majority of the opposition, including the vocal leader of the NPCP, Ismael Henry, who cited, "We have been pressuring the Berdasso administration to support the private sector, and we are happy they have finally decided to do the right thing."  Previously, the only bank with a license to operate in Berania was the Berania National Bank, fully owned by the Beranian government.

The population of Suqara continues to grow at a rapid pace, with the city predicted to reach the landmark of 100,000 residents later this year. The continued expansion of the city into the barrens around it has been fuelled by incoming immigrants from other parts of Berania, with very little coming from overseas. The same can be said for the economic investments, with most of it coming from Beranians and not international investors. The increase in urban population has been a trend seen all over the country the past 3 years, and the rate continues to grow at record rate. Berania's second largest city Mayfina, situated on the eastern coast of the country, currently has a population of 50,000, although its growth rate is significantly lower than Suqara, which has the highest of any city in the country.

Below are shots of the commercial area, known as the Wholesale Market, on I-101 on the edge of Suqara.





The law recently passed concerning the legality of timber and lumber operation  has allowed a local company the rights to operate in the Verada area in central Berania, becoming the first ever company to receive a lumber license in the history of the country. The law has been defiantly and furiously protested by environmentalist and several key government officials, all citing the destruction of Beranian's beautiful forests as a crime against nature. Defending the decision his administration has taken, President Berdasso said, "First and foremost, the propaganda being fed that the forests of Berania will be destroyed is, in every shape and form, is a lie. We have no intention of doing that, nor would we ever stand behind anything that would lead to that. Instead, what we are doing is capitalizing on an extremely profitable opportunity to help the Beranian economy grow in order to help further improve the country.  Over 98% of the country is classified as rural area, and a big chunk of that are lush forests. All we have done is take a fraction of 1% of that and are allowing the lumber industry to gain access to the untapped Beranian market, for our advantage. What they don't tell you are the rules and laws behind it. For example, for every tree cut down, 2 of the same type must be planted in a designated area. Before we gave the license of operation, we did a thorough inspection of the area to see what type of animals called it home, and relocated a lot of them to other similar areas. A lot of steps were taken in order to insure the immediate neighbouring areas of the site would not feel a thing." The speech was given in the town of Peston, the closet settlement to the lumber site. The town will also serve as headquarters to Grafite Co., the name of the lumber company which was given the license. It is expected the company will employ 220 people in its initial stage, with the number of employees predicted to double within 3 years.

Excellent history into that update my friend, it took me time to read but it was a pure pleasure !
The pictures are nice too, I like the way you created the Wholesale Market, it looks quite fine with the BAT used. The last picture is nice, even thought there is some (a lot) of deforestation..  &mmm
Take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:

great update, i like the last picture &apls

Fantastic update, as usual!!!  :thumbsup:

Great update :thumbsup:, might i suggest the Euro Car Replacement Mod to make your cities streets n roads look nicer in the car dept "$Deal"$

Beautiful updates!  Fantastic work throughout your diary here!

Nedalezz, your MD photos have always been among my favorites. Like several other really good players, you have a building and presentation style that is uniquely yours. And a very appealing style it is, too

The commercial development looks really good, and you know I've always been a sucker for the nighttime shots! What is the grey structure in the first photo just below and to the left of center? From the back it looks like a house, but from the front it looks like it could be a church or meeting hall. It's a nice-looking BAT whatever it is. Love the way you did the forest in the last photo, too. I could use the same trees and plop 'til I drop without getting near the good results you achieve.

Hope your business trip went well, and you'll have more time to continue developing Berania.

Later...
Joan

Thank you everyone for the comments, and thanks Joan! The BAT is the work of ZZ, although im not exactly sure what it is called. The business trip went well, and Im working on a new update currently. Its not quite ready, but here are a couple of teaser shots. Enjoy!

Very nice teaser pics, nedalezz! Hope you'll be able to finish the full update soon, but since good things come to those who wait, I will wait without nagging! ;D

Glad to hear your business trip was successful, and I'll be watching anxiously for more of your beautiful photos.

Later...
Joan

That first teaser picture caught my eye; it's sharp and attractive. ;)

Splendid teaser. :thumbsup:

Great work and very very nice teasers  &apls

I'm waiting for more beautiful pics like these :thumbsup:

Very nice teaser pics.  I really like the first one.  The waterfront and condo towers are wonderful.  :thumbsup:

Nice teaser, both shots look great!

Glad your business trip was good, Nedalezz !
Also, what a nice teaser there, I really love the first picture, with the marina and that color for the water, nicely done. I never though about that building (the one on the left) will looks good at a sea front, but in your picture, it looks excellent !
The second picture is by far my favorite, these two Simfox's towers fits perfectly in that suburbs area. Sometime, such building just next to small houses isn't the best way to make them, but again your way to put them, and your urban settings development is making that good and the transition is as well, good.
Take care,
-Arthur. :thumbsup:

Ooh, yay, you're back.

Those are wonderfully marvelous teaser pics, nedalezz. Where was the trip to this time? China, Dubai, or other. I know that the two I mentioned you have talked about before.

I really love Berania. Your complete use of custom content really amazes me. But, I like the different styles of housing you have used from your previous MDs.

Looks like some big construction is going on in Berania.

Ethan

Wow! Quite a response for a couple of teaser shots, now I feel the pressure. Here is some quick personal replies and 1 more teaser shot before the update!

Joan: You have a right to nag, complain, and say whatever you want as far as I am concerned! Youve been commenting on my MDs forever, and its much apppreciated.

sumwon: Thank you :)

Earth Quake: Thanks!

Yan077: Ok let me just say, Corsica is one of the most visually stunning MDs I have ever seen! I know I havent commented on it, but its one of my favs.

djvandrake: Thank you! The building on the left is an office building actually, and the one on the right is residential.

Battlecat: Thank you thank you :)

art128: Thanks! I recently installed a new water mod, and I found it really works well. I agree with the SimFox Moscow Red buildings, I really like the place they developed, thats why I kept them!

ecoba: Wow, thanks for the kind words! This time it was a combination of China, Dubai, Lebanon, and Africa :)

Tsk. Tsk.

You shouln't tease.

But I can't resist!

Is that Maxis I see? Really, quite a surprise, but at least it's High Wealth, Maxis' strongest category.

That is qute a swanky area of the city, everyone's so rich. I wish I had a house like that.

Sounds like it could have been a fun business trip what company do you work for?

Ethan

This update is going to be great if it's half as good as these last few pics. But I am going to have to start fussing if you don't quit teasing us like this, nedalezz! :D

Waiting anxiously...
Joan

WOW! Beautiful! &apls

Another stunning picture, Nedalezz ! The mix of different housing development give a nice atmosphere to your city. That park is nice, maybe if it was surrounded by some fences, just to keep the people that will go in th grass safe, it will be awesome. I see that people drive left hand, or is it just a photoshopped effect ?
And, your MD, like your past one, is definitely one of my favorite of all time !
Regards,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:

My friend, your cities are awesome!!! Fantastic work!!!  &apls &apls &apls

Great work. Really nice BATs and great photo editing as well.  :thumbsup:

-  In the second ever presidential election in Beranian history, it was incumbent President Berdasso who won the election with 63.2% of the total vote.  With a record twelve candidates putting themselves in the running, National Democratic Movement of Berania (NDMB) candidate James Hayden came in second with 27.4% of the total vote, beating out National Progressive Conservative Party (NPCP) candidate Ismael Henry, who disappointingly only managed to garner 9.3% of the total vote. The election proved the overwhelming confidence the Beranian people have in the BNP led administration under President Berdasso, and the satisfaction felt over the job they did in the first term of Berdasso's term.

-  The capital city of Suqara saw outstanding growth in terms economically and demographically the past two years, setting record percentages in both. The population of the city, which was taken just after the presidential election, was officially recorded as 135,638 residents, with current development in and around the city slated to provide housing for another 20,000 residents in the next twelve months. That would put the city's population at over 150,000 within the next 12 months, and predictions have the capital's population hitting 200,000 in just over 20 months from now.

-  The opening of both the Koraitam Seaport west of Suqara and the Suqara International Airport have opened Berania to the world, finally giving Beranians an easy to way to travel out of the country and import commodities into it. Not surprisingly, trade and import numbers are at a record high due to the seaport, which serves as the entry point for all imports coming into Berania. The SIA currently only caters to charter flights, as there still no scheduled flights into the country, but one of Berdasso's promises during the campaign was to begin operations of a national airline that would connect the country to the world.

-  The country finally began its exportation of oil last year thanks to its land based refinery in eastern Berania, and the results have been very positive. The country currently exports 650,000 barrels a day, and with the construction of new refineries and capitalization of more oil fields, estimates suggest the country will export 1,000,000 barrels per day by the end of President Berdasso's second term. The new income was the direct cause of several developments in Berania, especially in Suqara.


One of the most important developments over the past two years inside of Suqara has been the construction and completion of the Marina District, which now serves as both the financial and touristic district of the city. As stated above, the new income from oil exports made it possible for the government to complete such a development. Let us have a look at some of highlights of the Marina District!







What would the Marina District be without an actual marina, right? The Suqara Marina is the first of its kind in the entire country, and features 3 restaurants and a nightclub, naturally called Marina. The project was developed by the government, with the largest subcontract going to Baladi Group, a local construction company owned by the wealthy Baladi family. Total costs upon completion of the Suqara Marina have been put at K7.8 million, and the cost of renting out a space for a boat per year is K12,000.

Very beautiful! I absolutley love you're setup!

My friend, really awesome update!!!  Fantastic work!!!  &apls &apls &apls
Welcome to the Best Sellers!!!

 :o .

My goodness, nedalezz!

You've certainly shown a new level of excellence. Your excellent work of CC blows me away with every picture.

Can't wait for more,

Ethan

As always, great update and it is now my pleasure to move your MD to Best Sellers.
&apls Here's to reaching the next level very soon.

Robin  :thumbsup:

I really don't know why I love so much your MD...
Certainly, because your pictures are simply magnificient   :D

And welcome to the best sellers  ;)

Yann.

Fantastic!  That's a great looking waterfront!  I really like the mix of housing styles!

Nice to see what was around those teaser pictures.   :)

I knew this update would be worth waiting for, nedalezz! The marina is just beautiful - vibrant, alive and very colorful! The second picture is especially attractive. The night shots - always favorites - are spectacular and reinforce the vigorous atmosphere of a bustling community.

There are some truly amazing BATs available to us, and you have chosen yours well. The VUE is gorgeous, especially at night. Of course, you have left us wanting to see more, more, more now!

And welcome to Best Sellers...
Joan

Impresive overview of your suburbs, really beautiful and the Night pic is simply splendid.
But I'm not a fan of your " water mod", sorry

Beautiful update!  &apls  I'm very impressed with the quality of your pictures.

I love the Marina area.  :thumbsup:

Great update  &apls
I'm really impressed by the overview of your city and I think that especially the last picture looks really cool with that 2 huge towers in the middle of a suburb :thumbsup:

Keep it up ;),
Fabian

It's been some time since your last update.  We all are really missing you. 
I hope everything is going well with you and we hear from you soon.

Robin :)

My computer's motherboard spoiled, so my computer is getting fixed. I do believe I have Suqara backed up on an external HD somewhere, just waiting for my computer to come back :(

I hope that you are able to get your computer back soon, and I hope you have that backup, but like Qumma, which you were able to rebuild, it'll be okay whatever.

I hope we can see some more work soon, when fixed the computer.

Ethan