Traveling expands your mind and can lead you to new and exciting experiences. You have probably cultivated and idea of what your trip will be like based on reviews of travelers who have visited the area and viewing the websites of popular attractions. While these resources can yield helpful advice and information, there are some interesting facts and unusual customs that might not be readily known by the average traveler. Here are a few travel facts that can help you embrace the etiquette, explore like the locals, or maybe entertain a few people at your next dinner party.
- 60% of the World’s lakes are located in Canada
Canada is the second largest country in the world and an astounding 9% of its surface is covered by fresh water. The number of lakes exceeds 3 square kilometers is almost 32,000. These include lakes that disappear and reappear seasonally, lakes with mineral densities three times saltier that the ocean, and lakes located within larger lakes.
2. South Africa is home to the longest contionous wine route in the world
Stretching from the Cape Winelands to the Klein Karoo, this gorgeous route is one of South Africa’s most renowned attractions and an important aspect of their agricultural industry. Wine tasting along the route yields a varied array of wines and expansive vineyard views.
3. Over 30 million people in China live in caves
These caves have no indoor plumbing and cost around $30 US dollars per month to rent. Common in the dry climate of the Northwest China, these caves dwellings are categorized into three types: cliff caves, independent caves, and underground caves.
4. Travel is scientifically proven to make you happier
Within the first couple of days of traveling, 89% of people report significant drops in stress levels and couples report experiencing increased feelings of intimacy towards each other. As a result, travel has been linked to a decrease in the development of heart disease and other types of stress- related conditions.
5. The average person in Switzerland consumes 22 pounds of chocolate per year
A recent study of citizens in Switzerland an average of 22 pounds of chocolate every year, which surpasses every other country. They are also one of the world’s greatest exporters of chocolate.
7. Salting your food in Egypt is offensive
In Egypt, seasoning your food after it has been served to you is insulting to the chef or the hostess because it implies that it was not your liking as served. So, if you have a trip to Egypt planned in the near future, make sure to avoid the salt shaker when dining out.
8. Parts of the Great Wall Of China are made with sticky rice
Zhejiang University of China revealed that in some parts of the structure, sticky rice was added into the mortar. Further research discovered that the mortar made with sticky rice was stronger and could withstand more damage from earthquakes and other natural elements that the “riceless” mortar.
9. There is a free wine fountain in a small town in Italy
Located in the Dora Sarchese Vineyard in the small town of Caldari di Ortana, this wine fountain offers locally made wine at no cost. The fountain is open to all travelers and attracts visitors from around the country.
Traveling has varying meanings for different people. For some, it means adventuring a natural wonderland with family. For others, it means peacefully self-reflecting amidst ancient historical sites. But overall, traveling is known to be of the most effective ways to boost happiness and spark creativity. Research your destination beforehand to discover any quirky customs or unusual travel facts can help enhance your experience by inspiring your exploration or preparing you for the culture.
This neat little restaurant is located in Tuscumbia, Alabama. The restaurant is inside a cave. A very unique place with a gift store to shop for souvenirs. It’s off the beaten path. A hidden gem.
Summer travels are in full swing this peak season at this time of the year. The beaches are very hard to resist. Whether it be to just relax and lay on the beach, water sports, or just enjoying nature.
