Ever tried to name every country on the planet that begins with the letter B? It’s harder than it sounds. Most people nail the big ones—Brazil, Belgium, maybe the Bahamas if they’re dreaming of a vacation. But there are actually 17 sovereign nations that fall into this category, and honestly, the list is way more diverse than you probably think. We aren’t just talking about different time zones; we are talking about a spread that covers every single continent except Antarctica.
From the landlocked mountain kingdoms of the Himalayas to the oil-rich sultanates of Southeast Asia, these "B" countries are currently steering the global conversation in 2026. Whether it’s Brazil’s massive role in the upcoming G20 transitions or Bhutan’s unique stance on "Gross National Happiness" in a hyper-digital age, these places aren't just names on a map. They’re power players.
The Heavy Hitters: Brazil, Belgium, and Bangladesh
If we’re looking at sheer scale, you have to start with Brazil. It’s the fifth-largest country in the world. Right now, in early 2026, the Brazilian economy is navigating a fascinating pivot. While experts like those at the Mastercard Economics Institute predicted a slight cooldown to about 1.5% GDP growth this year, the "agricultural hubs" in the Central-West are still absolutely booming. If you’re a traveler, Brazil remains the king of South American tourism, though prices in Rio and São Paulo have definitely crept up lately.
Then there’s Belgium. It’s basically the heartbeat of the European Union. Most people think of chocolate and waffles—which, let’s be real, are top-tier—but Belgium is also a massive logistical hub. Its position in Western Europe makes it the literal crossroads for international diplomacy.
And don't sleep on Bangladesh. It is one of the most densely populated spots on Earth. It has spent the last few decades transforming from a textile-reliant economy into a budding tech and manufacturing giant. People often mistake it for just a neighbor of India, but Bangladesh has a distinct, vibrant identity that’s increasingly hard to ignore on the global stage.
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The Island Paradises
You've probably scrolled past photos of the Bahamas or Barbados on Instagram and felt a deep sense of envy. These aren't just "vacation spots." They are complex nations dealing with the very real 2026 realities of climate adaptation.
- The Bahamas: Made up of over 700 islands and cays. It's much more than just Nassau.
- Barbados: Recently became a republic and is currently a leading voice in "Green Diplomacy."
- Bahrain: A tiny island nation in the Persian Gulf that packs a punch with its financial sector.
- Belize: The only country in Central America where English is the official language. It’s a diver’s dream, home to the Great Blue Hole.
The "B" Countries You Might Have Forgotten
It’s easy to remember the ones with the famous beaches, but some of the most culturally rich nations often fly under the radar. Take Bhutan, for example. This Himalayan kingdom didn't even have TVs until 1999. Today, it's the world's first carbon-negative country. They literally absorb more CO2 than they produce. That’s wild.
Then you have Brunei. It’s a tiny, wealthy sultanate on the island of Borneo. If you ever visit the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, you’ll see some of the most stunning mosques on the planet.
In Eastern Europe, Belarus and Bulgaria offer completely different vibes. Bulgaria is a sleeper hit for budget travelers in 2026, especially the Black Sea coast and the ski resorts in Bansko. Belarus remains more insular, often referred to as one of the last frontiers of old-school Eastern European governance.
Africa’s Rising Stars
The "B" list is particularly strong in Africa. These countries are often where the most interesting economic shifts are happening.
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Botswana is frequently cited as one of Africa’s greatest success stories. It’s stable, relatively wealthy thanks to diamonds, and has some of the best-managed wildlife conservation areas in the world. If you want to see an elephant in the wild, the Okavango Delta is the place.
Benin, Burkina Faso, and Burundi face tougher challenges. As of early 2026, Burkina Faso is struggling with significant security issues in the Sahel region. International aid groups like the IRC are heavily involved there. Meanwhile, Benin is becoming a major cultural hub, especially with the recent return of historical artifacts from European museums, which has sparked a massive surge in "heritage tourism."
Bolivia (technically the Plurinational State of Bolivia) is the standout in South America for those who love high-altitude adventure. It’s home to the Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat. If you’ve seen those "walking on water" photos, that’s Bolivia.
What Most People Get Wrong About These Countries
One of the biggest misconceptions is that these countries are "static." People tend to put them in boxes: "The Bahamas is for cruises," or "Belgium is for the EU."
The truth is, in 2026, the geopolitical map is shifting. For example, Bosnia and Herzegovina has seen a massive jump in its "passport power" recently, moving up the Henley Passport Index. It’s becoming more integrated with the rest of Europe every day.
Another error? Grouping Benin and Burkina Faso together just because they are neighbors. Their political climates and economic trajectories couldn't be more different right now. Benin is leaning into tech and tourism; Burkina Faso is navigating a complex internal conflict.
Real-World Insights for 2026
If you’re planning to visit or do business in any of these nations this year, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Visa Shifts: There have been some recent pauses in certain visa categories for countries like Bangladesh and Belarus when dealing with the US and UK. Always check the latest 2026 travel advisories before booking.
- Digital Nomads: Countries like Bulgaria and the Bahamas have launched specific visas for remote workers. Bulgaria, in particular, is incredibly cheap for those earning in USD or EUR.
- Sustainability: If you are heading to Bhutan, be prepared to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). It’s a daily tax on tourists designed to keep the country from becoming "over-touristed." It’s pricey, but it keeps the kingdom pristine.
The Full List of Countries Starting with B
For those who just want the checklist, here are all 17:
- Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Belize
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
Your Next Steps
If this list has sparked some wanderlust or curiosity, your best move is to narrow it down by region. If you want luxury and sun, look into the Bahamas or Barbados' new eco-resorts. If you’re looking for a 2026 "undiscovered" gem, research the hiking trails in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Before you go anywhere, make sure to verify the specific entry requirements for 2026, as several "B" countries have updated their digital entry forms to streamline customs.