Country curiositiesFrance and Spain
Pheasant Island: Spanish half the year, French the other
On the Bidasoa river, a 200-metre islet is Spanish from February to July and French from August to January. How it started and when you can visit.
Country curiosities
Customs, laws and stories that exist in only one place on the map.
Articles on this topic
Country curiositiesSwitzerland
Switzerland has a fallout shelter for every resident
Switzerland has about 370,000 shelters and 9 million places, more than its population. How the rule works, what they're used for and where tourists fit.
Country curiositiesGermany
Why shops close on Sundays in Germany
Sunday rest is written into the German constitution. How the rule works, what stays open at stations and bakeries, and how to get through a Sunday.
Country curiositiesJapan
Why Japan has almost no public trash cans
Tokyo’s trash cans disappeared after the 1995 sarin gas attack, and most never came back. Why, and what to do with your rubbish while you travel.
Country curiositiesSingapore
Why Singapore bans the sale of chewing gum
Selling and importing chewing gum has been illegal in Singapore since 1992, and the subway is to blame. The story, and what you can pack for your trip.
Country curiositiesJapan
Tipping in Japan: why it isn’t done and what to do instead
In Japan the price on the bill is the final price, and tipping isn’t part of the culture. The few exceptions, and the extras that can show up on the bill.
Country curiositiesIceland
Why Iceland hasn’t changed its clocks since 1968
Iceland keeps the same time all year and lives with its clocks ahead of the sun. Why it made that choice, and what it means for visitors.
