The world is vast and filled with strange, fascinating phenomena that make our planet a truly remarkable place to explore. From unusual ways to get around to jaw-dropping wildlife encounters, there’s no shortage of travel experiences that defy our perception of normality.
Delve into some of these surprising travel facts and explore bizarre border crossings, geography oddities, and more. Let us embark on a journey into the unexpected.
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Bizarre border crossings and geography oddities
The borders between countries are often arbitrary lines drawn on a map, but sometimes these lines result in strange divisions of land that boggle the mind. While you might believe that Alaska is the westernmost US state, it is also the easternmost state due to its proximity to the International Date Line. This geographical quirk leads to the Aleutian Island of Semisopochnoi being both the eastern and western extremes of the United States.
Speaking of odd border crossings, did you know that you don’t need a passport to go to Hawaii? As an integral part of the US, passports are not required for Americans travelling to the archipelago. For international travellers asking the question, “do I need a passport to go to Hawaii?,” the answer is yes. A passport and visa will be necessary.
Unusual ways to travel
Moving onto peculiar modes of transport, Cambodia’s Bamboo Train is quite a sight to behold. Referred to as “norry” in Khmer, the Bamboo Train is an improvised rail vehicle that travels on Cambodia’s old railroad tracks. It’s built with a bamboo platform, bicycle wheels, and a small gasoline engine, making for a unique and exhilarating way to see the Cambodian countryside.
Fancy taking the road less travelled? In Bolivia, you can navigate the World’s Most Dangerous Road. As terrifying as it sounds, the journey offers stunning views of the Andean mountains and has become a sought-after attraction for thrill-seeking mountain bikers.
Another interesting method of transport is the Solar Boat in Israel, an eco-friendly, solar-powered boat that offers guided tours on the Sea of Galilee. The boat is a great example of sustainable tourism in action and offers visitors a unique way to experience the lake.
Global etiquette: surprising cultural differences
Cultural norms vary greatly from one country to another, and embracing these differences is an essential aspect of travel. For instance, while slurping may be rude in many countries, it is regarded as a sign of appreciation in Japan. The louder you slurp, the better – it indicates you’re thoroughly enjoying your meal.
In Thailand, the head is considered the most sacred body part, while the feet are regarded as the lowest and unclean. Pointing your feet at someone or touching their head is considered highly disrespectful. Therefore, it is common practice to remove your shoes before entering a Thai household and sit with your feet tucked away when in someone’s company.
Here’s another unexpected cultural difference: in Kenya, spitting as a form of greeting was once common among the Maasai people. The practice is now rare but is still observed by some as a sign of respect.
Weird and wonderful wildlife encounters
The animal kingdom is full of peculiar creatures, and from snorkelling with pigs to meeting sloths in the rainforest, travellers have plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife up close.
One of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters can be found in Australia’s Kakadu National Park. Here, you can witness the ancient tradition of “barramundi dreaming,” a unique ritual performed by the local Aboriginal people to ensure good luck for their fishing expeditions.
Travellers are often drawn to the world’s wildlife, but some encounters are truly extraordinary. Consider Mexico’s Isla de las Muñecas, or “the Island of the Dolls”, where hundreds of dolls have been strung up in the trees to appease the spirit of a drowned girl. The eerie scene has become a popular offbeat destination.
In the Danakil Depression, Ethiopia, one can witness the unique phenomenon of acidic hot springs that create a striking landscape coloured by the minerals leaching from the Earth’s surface. The alien-like terrain has become a hotspot for researchers and inquisitive tourists alike.
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Trips that leave a mark: unforgettable historic destinations
The world is home to many sites of tremendous cultural and historic significance, making it the perfect destination for travellers looking for an educational experience. In India, you can explore Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a holy site for Hindus. Here, you can observe rituals performed by pilgrims on its numerous ghats or embark on a boat ride on the Ganges.
Some trips leave an indelible impression on your soul, and such is the case with these unforgettable historic destinations. Take, for example, the Door of No Return in Senegal, a sobering site that symbolizes the final exit point for African slaves before being shipped to the Americas. A visit here is not only an opportunity to remember the past but to honour those who suffered so immensely.
Another impactful destination is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Japan, standing as a testimony to the horrors of nuclear warfare. The ruins of the A-Bomb Dome serve as a stark reminder of the tragedy that occurred in 1945 and the importance of striving towards a more peaceful and compassionate world.
Do you have surprising travel facts to share?
The world is full of surprising travel facts, curious ways of getting around, peculiar cultural customs, bizarre wildlife encounters, and unforgettable historic journeys. Embrace the unusual, broaden your horizons, and find inspiration in the world’s strangest and most striking attractions.
