Where are you really looking?

If you've been to the coast then you've probably asked 'What is on the other side?' For the most part you can't actually see to the other side of an ocean or sea.  Though in South Wales you can see across to England though this is technically the Bristol Channel, not a sea or ocean.

Growing up where I did in the Midlands, there were trips to places like Cleethorpes and Skegness.  Look them up, I doubt they are places you would visit if you are in the UK.  I always assumed if I could see then it would be Holland that I could see, beyond that I never gave it another thought.

One man, Andy Woodruff, a cartographer, has tried to answer this question and has produced maps to give you an idea of where you are actually looking at even if you can't see it.

By his own admission some of the maths may not be 100% accurate but the logic appears to make sense.  Take a look at the maps below to gain an idea of how it works.

His work builds on ideas from reporters at the Washington Post, they mapped out which places would be on the same latitude.  Keep in mind though, that being on the same latitude does not mean you would see this place due the angle of the coastline.

This map gives you an idea of this project.

If this is something you find interesting you can read all the articles by following the links below.  Where you do think you are looking at if you visit the coast in Romania?  Can you work it out?

Beyond the Sea - Andy Woodruff

If you’re on the beach, this map shows you what’s across the ocean

What’s across the ocean from you when you’re at the beach, in 7 fascinating maps