Current State
Jordan - A Country that Resembles Mars
Jordan, a country in the Middle East, has a region that bears a striking resemblance to the surface of Mars. Wadi Rum, located in southern Jordan, is often referred to as the "Valley of the Moon" but it truly looks like a piece of Mars on Earth.
Innovative or Dangerous? Palestinian Barbers’ Fiery Haircuts
In Palestine, a rather unconventional and attention - grabbing hair - cutting method has emerged: using fire to style hair. This practice, though seemingly extreme, has found its place in some local barbershops, sparking both curiosity and concern.
Saudi Arabia Lifts Ban on Female Drivers, Marking a Historic Change
For a long time, Saudi Arabia was the only country globally that prohibited women from driving. The Saudi Arabian interior ministry, specifically the head of the traffic police, refused to issue driver's licenses to women. Although there was no formal traffic law explicitly barring female drivers, women who dared to drive would be arrested and punished by law enforcement.
Italy’s Ivrea Carnival: The Thrilling Orange Battle
Spain’s tomato-throwing "La Tomatina" is wildly popular, but for those who prefer hurling something tangier, head to Italy in February. At the Ivrea Carnival, thousands of ripe oranges are pelted in a juicy battle during the festival’s highlight.
Icelandic Custom: Babies Left Outside Restaurants
In Iceland, a rather unique and heartwarming sight can be often witnessed outside restaurants. It is not uncommon to see babies sleeping peacefully in their strollers, left just outside the dining establishments while their parents enjoy a meal inside.
McDonald’s Drive-Thru: Born from Military Needs
The first McDonald’s drive-thru window opened in Sierra Vista, Arizona, driven by a specific military requirement: soldiers from a nearby camp were barred from entering public places in uniform. To accommodate them, the restaurant’s manager cut a window in the wall, allowing soldiers to buy meals without leaving their vehicles.
Swedish Blood Donors Get Texts When Their Blood Saves Lives
To encourage young people to donate blood, Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, sends donors a text message when their donated blood is actually used. This lets them know their contribution has truly helped someone in need.
Rent a Country: Liechtenstein Offers Its Throne for Hire
In a rather extraordinary move, Liechtenstein, a tiny yet prosperous principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria, has made an unconventional offer to the world. Since 2011, the country has been available for rent at a price of £40,000 per night. This unique proposition allows individuals to experience a taste of royalty and assume the role of the "temporary king" of Liechtenstein.
In Vatican, Needing to Go Abroad for a Haircut
Vatican City, the world's smallest country, is a unique and fascinating place. With a total area of just 0.44 square kilometers, it is located entirely within the city of Rome, Italy. This tiny nation has a population of only around 800 people.
Traffic in San Marino: A World Without Traffic Lights
San Marino, a small yet charming microstate nestled within Italy, stands out for a unique and remarkable feature: it has no traffic lights. Despite being one of the oldest republics in the world and a popular tourist destination, this tiny nation has managed to function without the common traffic - controlling devices found in most urban areas.
Bullfighting: A Deep - Rooted Passion in Spain
Bullfighting, or "corrida de toros," stands as an enduring symbol of Spanish culture, deeply ingrained in the nation's identity and passionately cherished by many Spaniards. This age - old spectacle combines elements of art, bravery, and tradition, captivating audiences across the country for centuries.
Andorra: A Country Without an Army or Its Own President
Andorra, a small country nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, has a unique status when it comes to its military and leadership structure. In terms of defense, Andorra does not possess a standing army or any armed forces. Instead, its military defense is based on treaties it has signed with its neighboring countries, Spain and France. One such treaty is the 1993 Treaty of Good Neighborliness, Friendship, and Cooperation. There is only a minuscule volunteer army in Andorra, but its role is strictly ceremonial.
Contrasting Realities in the Republic of the Congo: Lives of Scarcity, Displays of Opulence
In the Republic of the Congo, a striking paradox unfolds as many residents lead lives marked by poverty, yet present themselves with an air of affluence through their clothing. Despite facing economic hardships and struggling to meet basic needs, a significant portion of the population places great emphasis on dressing in an extravagant manner.
Argentines of All Ages Embrace Open-Air Bathing Tradition
In Argentina, a unique and vibrant tradition unfolds as people of all ages come together for open-air bathing. This custom, deeply rooted in the country's culture, holds significant meaning for the locals.
Bavaria’s Fairy Tale Castles, Including Neuschwanstein, Named UNESCO World Heritage Sites
On July 12, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee officially inscribed four iconic palaces built by Bavaria’s King Ludwig II onto the prestigious World Heritage List. The ensemble includes Neuschwanstein Castle, Herrenchiemsee Palace, Linderhof Palace, and the Schachen Royal Lodge, celebrated for their visionary architecture and cultural significance. Maria Böhmer, President of Germany’s UNESCO Commission, hailed them as “architectural masterpieces that reflect both the artistic imagination of the Fairy-Tale King and his unconventional genius”