How to start your own country

Here are four easy steps to start your own country. Step 1: Make sure you're eligible. Step 2: Declare independence. Step 3: You must have a government and lastly, Step 4: Join the club. Everybody, go get busy now. From Foreign Policy:

Applying for U.N. membership is a breeze. According to U.N. rules, all you need to do is write a letter to the secretary-general requesting membership. These letters are remarkably short and simple. For a handy template, check out the successful application of Montenegro, the United Nations’ most recent member.

You can mail your application to:
Ban Ki-moon
Secretary-General
The United Nations
First Ave. at 46th St.
New York, NY 10017