Edward Hasbrouk mentioned four different "worlds" based on economics and the cold war in [u]Practical Nomad[/u]. So after failing to find any comprehensive, country-by-country info in plain English, I'm asking here.

What countries would you rate as having a first-, second-, third- or fourth- world travel infrastructures on the following scale:

1 - Well-developed, extensive and rapid transport systems (Eurorail, US interstates, reliable domestic and international flights). Travelers on a reasonable budget can expect well-kept dorm-style hostels with western toilets. Police and other emergency personnel are easily contacted, prompt to respond, and don't accept "tips".

2 - Has developed transport systems to both main cities and outlying areas, but rides are frequently delayed/cancelled and/or schedule is consistently six to eight hours behind for any given reason. Travelers on a reasonable budget can expect to provide any and all amenities themselves, including toilet paper for the dodgy western bathroom. Some difficulty or confusion when contacting emergency personnel, who are slow to respond. Some policemen may expect bribes when they "check your passport".

3 - Has developed transport systems to a few main cities and maybe some outlying areas, but schedules consistently run six or more hours behind for any reason and rides are frequently cancelled/delayed for eight or more hours due to mechanical failures and old engines. Travelers on a reasonable budget can expect a mattress, bed frame and non-Western toilets. Confusion and difficulty when trying to figure out how to contact emergency personnel, or the whole neighborhood ends up volunteering to help because it takes so long for them to show up. All officials who look at your passport make part of their living on bribes.

4 - Extremely minimal infrastructure. No trains or airports, and the main roads are one-lane dirt tracks, making travel over even short distances very time-consuming. Travelers on a reasonable budget can expect a roof, or they camp out. No emergency personnel. Officials who look at your passport are too shocked to see a foreigner to ask for money.

Obviously, some areas within a country will be more or less developed than others, but I’m just looking for an overall view.