Slowjamastan: San Diego DJ Builds Unique Desert Nation (Photos)

Welcome to Slowjamastan

Out in the California desert, a plot of barren land has been transformed into the self-declared micronation known as Slowjamastan. Founded by Randy “R Dub!” Williams, a late-night slow jams DJ from San Diego, this unconventional country has gained attention for its unique culture and quirky rules.

Welcome to Slowjamastan: Out in the California desert, a plot of barren land has been turned into a new 'country' -- a self-declared micronation.
Welcome to Slowjamastan: Out in the California desert, a plot of barren land has been turned into a new “country” — a self-declared micronation.

The Sultan’s Role

Randy Williams has appointed himself as “the Sultan of Slowjamastan.” Under his leadership, the micronation thrives with its specific customs and a growing community.

The sultan: Randy 'R Dub!' Williams, a late-night 'slow jams' DJ from San Diego, has appointed himself as 'the Sultan of Slowjamastan' after creating the country.
The sultan: Randy “R Dub!” Williams, a late-night “slow jams” DJ from San Diego, has appointed himself as “the Sultan of Slowjamastan” after creating the country.

Unique Citizenship

Slowjamastan issues its own passports to individuals who express interest in becoming citizens. Interestingly, Williams has had his Slowjamastan passport stamped by 16 different countries during his travels, including South Africa and New Zealand.

Papers, please: Slowjamastan issues its own passports to people. Williams says he's had his Slowjamastan passport stamped by 16 different countries.
Papers, please: Slowjamastan issues its own passports to people who have expressed interest in becoming citizens.

Population Growth

The Republic of Slowjamastan boasts over 500 registered citizens, with an additional 4,500 people either conditionally approved or awaiting citizenship.

Stamp of approval: The Republic of Slowjamastan claims over 500 registered citizens.
Stamp of approval: The Republic of Slowjamastan claims over 500 registered citizens, with 4,500 more conditionally approved.

Exploring Dublândia

Dublândia serves as the capital of Slowjamastan, featuring an open-air government office where Williams conducts the nation’s affairs.

The nation's capital: A sign welcomes visitors to Dublândia, the capital of Slowjamastan.
The nation’s capital: A sign welcomes visitors to Dublândia, where the Sultan operates his government office.

Tourism and Culture

Visitors to Slowjamastan should be aware of its unconventional prohibitions, such as disallowing “Crocs,” “mumble rap,” and “people who put their feet on the dashboard.” These quirky rules contribute to the nation’s unique charm.

Tourist attraction: Citizens and visitors to Slowjamastan must be mindful of bizarre prohibitions.
Tourist attraction: Citizens and visitors must be mindful of bizarre prohibitions like “Crocs” and “mumble rap.”

Geographical Information

Slowjamastan, officially known as The United Territories of The Sovereign Nation of The People’s Republic of Slowjamastan, is located off California State Route 78, approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive northwest of San Diego.

California dreaming: Officially named The United Territories of The Sovereign Nation of The People's Republic of Slowjamastan.
California dreaming: The self-declared “country” is located off California State Route 78.

Currency and Traditions

Slowjamastan has its own currency, known as the duble, signifying the nation’s independence and economic identity.

Seeing duble: Slowjamastan prints its own currency -- the duble.
Seeing duble: Slowjamastan prints its own currency — the duble.

Exploring Wildlife

Residents and tourists alike enjoy searching for the elusive Slowjamastan raccoon, recognized as the nation’s national animal.

Animal magic: Local pastimes include searching for the elusive Slowjamastan raccoon.
Animal magic: Local pastimes include searching for the elusive Slowjamastan raccoon, the national animal.

Government Structure

Williams describes the governance style of Slowjamastan as predominantly a dictatorship. However, he occasionally holds special voting ceremonies allowing citizens to express their opinions on matters such as national symbols.

Dub dictatorship: 'We're a dictatorship most of the time,' Williams says.
Dub dictatorship: “We’re a dictatorship most of the time,” Williams shares, discussing citizen participation during special events.


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