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The world is full of unique things and traditions that many people don't know about. Each country has its own customs and cultures, which can sometimes leave you amazed, laughing, or even very curious. From long-established traditions to unique everyday habits, there are surely many exciting things you haven’t heard of. Let’s check out some interesting facts from various countries that will surely surprise you and broaden your perspective!

Unique Facts from Various Countries

Ethiopia Has a Different Calendar System

Ethiopia uses a different calendar system compared to the widely-used Gregorian calendar. The Ethiopian calendar has 13 months in a year and is about seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar.

South Korea Calculates Age One Year Older

In South Korea, a baby is considered to be one year old at birth. Additionally, everyone in South Korea ages at the same time every January 1st, rather than on their individual birthdays.

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Shaking Your Head to Agree in Albania

If you travel to Albania, don’t be surprised if someone shakes their head to show agreement with you. Unlike most countries where people nod their heads to indicate yes, Albanians shake their heads to signify “yes.”

The Tradition of Pouring Water in Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, there’s a unique tradition before someone embarks on a long journey: they pour water behind them. It’s believed that this act will bring good luck and ensure a safe trip.

Italy Has a Superstitious Number

In Italy, the number 17 is considered unlucky, unlike the number 13 in many other countries. In Roman numerals, XVII can be rearranged to form "VIXI," which in Latin means “my life is over.”

Argentina Has a Monthly Tradition of Eating Gnocchi

In Argentina, on the 29th of every month, people have a tradition of eating gnocchi (a type of pasta). This tradition stems from the belief that eating gnocchi on this day will bring good luck and prosperity for the upcoming month.

Strange Population Issue in New Zealand

New Zealand has more sheep than people! With a population of about 5 million humans, the country has over 25 million sheep. This ratio makes New Zealand one of the countries with the highest sheep population in the world.

Canada Pioneered Plastic Money

Canada was one of the first countries to replace paper money with plastic currency. These polymer bills are more durable, difficult to counterfeit, and water-resistant, making them more practical than regular paper money.

Andorra Is the Only Country Without an Airport

Andorra is the only country in Europe that doesn’t have an airport. To visit this country, tourists must fly to either Spain or France first, then continue their journey by bus or car.

Birthdays Are Not a Common Tradition in Cambodia

In Cambodia, many people do not celebrate their birthdays. In fact, many parents do not know the exact birth dates of their children. This is because birth registration was not common in the past.

The Netherlands Has the Tallest Men in the World

The Netherlands has the tallest average male height in the world, about 183 cm. This is influenced by genetic factors, a diet rich in protein (especially from dairy products), and a strong healthcare system. However, this trend of height growth has started to slow down due to lifestyle and dietary changes.

One City in Nigeria Has the Highest Twin Birth Rate

Igbo-Ora in Nigeria is known as the city with the highest twin birth rate in the world. Genetic factors from the Yoruba tribe, a yam-based diet believed to stimulate double ovulation, and environmental factors all contribute to this phenomenon. The city even holds a special festival each year to celebrate twins.

Iceland Has No Mosquitoes

Iceland is one of the few countries that is free from mosquitoes, thanks to its cold climate and weather that doesn’t support mosquito breeding. The low temperatures, especially in winter, hinder the mosquito life cycle, preventing mosquito colonies from thriving in the country. This makes Iceland a comfortable place without the nuisance of mosquitoes, which is a benefit for both locals and tourists.

The First Successful Heart Transplant Took Place in South Africa

The first successful heart transplant in the world took place on December 3, 1967, in Cape Town, South Africa, by Dr. Christiaan Barnard. The patient, Louis Washkansky, received a heart from a deceased donor. Although the patient only survived 18 days after the surgery, this achievement marked a significant milestone in the medical field and paved the way for advancements in organ transplantation.

Read Also: Interesting Facts About England That You Need to Know

Most Soccer Balls in the World Are Made in Pakistan

Pakistan, particularly the city of Sialkot, is the world’s largest producer of soccer balls. About 70-80% of soccer balls used globally are produced in Pakistan. The quality of soccer balls made in Sialkot is very high, and they are used in international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup. Besides soccer balls, Sialkot is also known for producing other sports equipment.

Every country has its own uniqueness, and that’s what makes the world so fascinating. From traditions to beliefs, these unique aspects form part of cultures that continue to thrive today.