Travel trivia: 10 countries famous for what they don’t have
There are many countries that are known around the world because of what they possess: impressive mountains, vast forests, notable rivers, and unique fauna. At the same time, there are several countries that draw attention precisely due to lack of something. It may be a lack of snakes, absence of rivers, airports, traffic lights, standing army, or any other things. Sometimes, peculiar features of nature or history are the reasons behind unusual lacks in certain countries. Here are some of the world’s most surprising countries defined by a very unusual “no.”
Iceland — No mosquitoes
Despite its wetlands and cool summers, Iceland is famously free of mosquitoes. Scientists believe the country’s unique climate cycles prevent mosquito larvae from surviving long enough to establish populations. For travellers, this means hiking, camping, and exploring Iceland’s lakes and volcanic landscapes without constantly swatting insects.
Saudi Arabia – No permanent rivers
Saudi Arabia does not have any rivers flowing through it permanently. Rather, the country relies on underground water sources, desalinated water produced in various facilities and temporary seasonal streams called wadis. Lack of permanent water sources makes the country's arid lands even more fascinating for tourists who visit Riyadh, AlUla, and the Rub' al-Khali.
Vatican City – No airports
As the world's smallest state, the Vatican has no airports at all. As the size of the Vatican is only 0.49 square kilometres located in Rome, people can simply walk to the country from Rome. Even though the country has no airport, it is among the most popular tourist attractions of the world because of places like St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel.
Costa Rica – No standing army
In 1948, Costa Rica disbanded its army and allocated all the resources towards healthcare services, educational establishments and nature conservation. Now, Costa Rica is recognized worldwide for eco-tourism, diversity, rainforests, volcanoes, and peaceful national character.
Singapore – No natural lakes
There are man-made lakes in Singapore but no natural lakes. In spite of being highly urbanized, Singapore has become one of the greenest urban destinations in the world through artificial parks, gardens, and lakes.
New Zealand – No native snakes
New Zealand’s isolated island geography helped it evolve without native land snakes. The country is extremely protective of its ecosystem because native birds and wildlife evolved without many land predators. For travellers, it means hiking through forests, fjords, and mountains without worrying about snake encounters.
Bhutan – No traffic lights
Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is an exceptional example of a capital city that does not have any traffic light system. In fact, there have been no traffic lights in this city since police officers used to manage the traffic manually in decorated booths.
San Marino – No railway stations
San Marino is one of the oldest republics in the world, yet there are no active railway stations here. Travellers come to the mountainous state via road transport from Italy. San Marino, thus, concentrates more on spectacular drives, picturesque streets, and stunning views.
Qatar – No forests
Qatar’s arid desert climate means it has no natural forests. The country’s landscape is dominated by sand dunes and rocky plains, with vegetation limited to sparse shrubs and grasses. Despite this, Qatar has invested in urban greenery and parks, making its cities oases of green in the desert.
Greenland – No road networks between cities
Greenland has no roads connecting its towns and settlements. Travel between cities is done by air, sea, or dog sled. The lack of road infrastructure preserves the pristine Arctic environment and offers unique travel experiences like cruising among icebergs or flying over vast ice sheets.
