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Travel Trivia

2020 Travel Trivia - Holiday Edition

1. In what country is the New Years celebration called "Songkran" where citizens nationwide partake in a three day long water fight?

2. What is the name of the "anti-Santa" that has his mythic origins in Eastern Europe? 

3. Which popular Christmas movie was temporarily blacklisted by the FBI as "Communist propaganda" after it's release in 1946? 



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 

Q: In what country is the New Years celebration called "Songkran" where citizens nationwide partake in a three day long water fight?

A: Thailand! Songkran literally translates as "transformation" and the celebration grew out of the tradition of heading to the local temple to engage in a spirtual cleansing. Today many people still practice this tradition as well as a ritualistic bathing of Buddha statues. 


Q: What is the name of the "anti-Santa" that has his mythic origins in Eastern Europe?

A: Santa's evil twin, so to speak, is a being known as "Krampus." He is typically depicted as a demonic half-man haf-goat like creature, and his punishments for bad behavior are a bit more severe than coal in your stocking! The Krampus legend is popular in Eastern Europe where it most likely originated.


Q: Which popular Christmas movie was temporarily blacklisted by the FBI as "Communist propaganda" after it's release in 1946?

A: Who knew angels getting their wings could be so controversial! Thats right, the film that raised some eyebrows by the FBI is none other than "It's a Wonderful Life." Apparently the movie's negative depiction of bankers was suspicious. "It's a Wonderful Life" was officially exonerated in 1956.      

 

November, 2020 Travel Trivia 

1. What archipelago's name comes from a Latin phrase meaning "Isle of Dogs"?

2. Which 2 countries in the world are the only places where you can't buy coco-cola? 

3. Where would you be if you were sampling something called "Surstomming"? 



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 

Q: What archipelago's name comes from a Latin phrase meaning "Isle of Dogs"?

A: The Canary Islands! It seems logical to assume that this Spanish archipelago was named after canary birds. In fact, the Spanish name "Islas Canarias" comes from the Latin "Canariae Insulae" meaning "Isle of Dogs".


Q: Which 2 countries in the world are the only places where you can't buy coco-cola?

A: It may or may not be a surprise that North Korea and Cuba are the two countries in the world where you can't buy coco-cola (officially). 


Q: Where would you be if you were sampling something called "Surstomming"?   

A: Surstomming is a popular food in Sweden! This fermented canned herring can be found on most supermarket shelves in Sweden. Be warned: when canned, the fermeting process continues and Surstomming has a very strong odour. And the taste? Well, let's just say it's probably an acquired one unless you grew up enjoying this snack! 

 

January, 2020 Travel Trivia 

1. What country ranked #1 in the World Happiness Report in 2019?

2. Can you name the 3 largest deserts in the world? 

3. Where would you be if you were sampling a drink called "Airag"? 



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 

Q: What country ranked #1 in the World Happiness Report in 2019?

A: Finland! The quality of life and sense of wellbeing ranked Finland at #1 in the World Happiness Report for the second year running. 


Q: Can you name the 3 largest deserts in the world?

A: In order, they are Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Sahara Desert. Ironically, the conditions in two of the coldest areas on earth satisfy the scientific definition of a desert, qualifying them for this list!  

Want to know more? See: 7 Most Beautiful Deserts in the World


Q: Where would you be if you were sampling a drink called "Airag"?   

A: This slightly alcholic fermented milk drink is a common household staple in Mongolia.

 

December, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. How many ski resorts are there in Australia? Hint: it's more than 1! 

2. In what year was alpine skiing added as an Olympic sport?

3. Where is the highest elevation ski resort in the world?



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 

Q: How many ski resorts are there in Australia? Hint: it's more than 1!

A: Believe it or not, Australia is actually home to no less than 16 ski resorts. Skiing is a popular local pastime in New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria during the wintertime months (June - August).


Q: In what year was alpine skiing added as an Olympic sport?

A: Alpine skiing officially became a competitive sport in the Olympics in 1936, when Germany hosted.


Q: Where is the highest elevation ski resort in the world?   

A: If you're interested in skiing from the highest possible point in the world for laymen, you'll be going to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in China. This is followed by ski resorts in India, the USA, and Switzerland respectively.

 

November, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. Where and when was the first European Christmas market held? 

2. What country is credited with creating the first gingerbread cookie shaped like a person?

3. What Christmas song holds the Guinness world record for best selling single?



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 

Q: Where and when was the first European Christmas market held?

A: While it's difficult to pinpoint exactly, most sources point to Strasbourg, France which held their first Christmas market in 1570. 


Q: What country is credited with creating the first gingerbread cookie shaped like a person?

A: Gingerbread has been around since the 1400s. And while there may have been earlier instances of cookies shaped like men, the first documented gingerbread man can be traced to the court of Queen Elizabeth 1st of England.

gingerbread men


Q: What Christmas song holds the Guinness world record for best selling single?   

A: This honor goes to "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby which is the best selling single of all time with over 50 million copies sold worldwide. 

 

August, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. Name 4 European countries, other than Switzerland, that are considered "neutral" 

2. What is the shortest place name in the world, and where is it? (There are two possible answers)

3. What is the most linguistically diverse country in the world?



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 

Q: Name 4 European countries, other than Switzerland, that are considered "neutral"

A: While Switzerland is perhaps the most well known neutral country, they're not alone. Other European countries that are considered neutral include: Austria, Ireland, Finland, and Sweden. Liechtenstein, Malta, Serbia, and Moldova are also acceptable answers. 


Q: What is the shortest place name in the world, and where is it? (There are two possible answers)

A: The two shortest place names in the world are "Å" a teeny fishing village in the Arctic Circle, officially part of Norway, and "Y" a small French village in the region of Picardy in Northern France


Q: What is the most linguistically diverse country in the world?   

A: Papual New Guinea! There are a whopping 852 languages in Papua New Guinea, only 12 of which are extinct, though 41 are considered to be dying languages. 


May, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. How many different species of crocodile are there in the world? 

2. How many wine regions are there in Italy? (Trick question!)

3. Mongolia is home to what endangered large cat?



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: How many different species of crocodile are there in the world?

A: A total of 23 different crocodile species have been identified in countries and regions around the world. They live in both salt and fresh water. Some of the best places to spot crocodiles include the southern United States and in the Nile River.


Q: How many wine regions are there in Italy? (Trick question!)

A: Vineyards thrive throughout Italy. So all 20 regions of Italy grow grapes and produce wine, including on the island of Sicily! But of course one of the most popular regions for winetasting in Italy is beautiful Tuscany.


Q: Mongolia is home to what endangered large cat?   

A: It might come as a suprise, but snow leopards live in large parts of Mongolia. This elusive and beautiful cat is currently market as "vulnerable", having moved from the endangered list due to successful conservation efforts.

 

April, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. What farm animal is famous for climbing trees in Morocco? 

2. Where will you find Southeast Asia's highest mountain?

3. Which country has the largest number of bird species?



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What farm animal is famous for climbing trees in Morocco

A: Morocco is home to a tree climbing goat. They are known to climb a particular kind of tree in Tamri, Morocco - the Argania Spinosa. The trees product a certain kind of fruit that the goats are attracted to.

Goats in trees in Morocco

Q: Where will you find Southeast Asia's highest mountain?

A: While Asia of course claims the highest mountain in the world (Mt. Everest, Nepal), the honor of the highest mountain in the Southeast Asia region goes to Hkakabo Razi in Myanmar. This peak stretches to 19,295' a staggering 9,734' smaller than Everest.

 
Q: Which country has the largest number of bird species?   

A: As of 2016, the general conenses is that Colombia in South America is home to the largest amount of different bird species, claiming a total of 1,826. This is followed closely by Peru, with 1,804 distinct species.

 

March, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. Where would you be if you were sampling "flødeboller"? 

2. What region (cluster of countries) is the world's largest exporter of cocoa?

3. What country produces the most roses in the world?



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: Where would you be if you were sampling "flødeboller"? 

A: This delicious treat is found in Denmark! Flødeboller are chocolate covered marshmallows, found throughout Scandinavia, but originating from Denmark.


Q: What region (cluster of countries) is the world's largest exporter of cocoa?

A: The Ivory Coast in West Africa is the largest exporter of cocoa in the world. The top producing countries are Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana.

 
Q: What country produces the most roses in the world?   

A: This may come as a surprise, but Ecuador is actually the world's largest producer of roses. The rose is Ecuador's national flower and they thrive in the climate.

Ecuadorian Rose

 

February, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. What country was St. Valentine from? 

2. What continent is the Lovebug found on? (yes its a real species!)

3. In what country do lovers exchange special wooden spoons in January as a mark of their love?



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What country was St. Valentine from? 

A: St. Valentine, the namesake for Valentines Day hailed from Italy, and more specifically, Rome. He lived during the early 200s AD, and died on February 14th, 269 AD. Legends surrounding St. Valentine, most of which were perpetuated by Geoffrey Chaucer, frequently have to do with "courtly love". 


Q: What continent is the Lovebug found on? (yes its a real species!)

A: Lovebugs (or "Plecia nearctica") are typically found in Central America as well as parts of the southern United States. Lovebugs are a species of fly that got their name from their unusual mating rituals. Both during and after mating, they stay connected to eachother for several days - even flying as one!

love bugs

 
Q: In what country do lovers exchange special wooden spoons in January as a mark of their love?   

A: This unique ritual takes place in Wales. The spoons are aptly named "love spoons" and are made with itricate designs. Dateing back to the 17th century, love spoons gradually became more and more detailed and larger in size. Young male suiters would present the object of their affection with a spoon to symbolize and represent his handiwork and craftmanship ability.  

 

January, 2019 Travel Trivia 

1. Which continent has the most marsupial species? 

2. What is the highest mountain peak in Europe?

3. Nearly 80% of what land mass (country) is covered in ice cap and glacier?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: Which continent has the most marsupial species? 

A: There are only about 334 marsupial species in the world, 200 of which make their home in Australia!


Q: What is the highest mountain peak in Europe?

A: Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe, a part of the Caucasus Mountain range in southern Russia. It is a dormant volcano, available to climb for those hikers seeking a challenge!

 
Q: Nearly 80% of what land mass (country) is covered in ice cap and glacier?   

A: Greenland is nearly 80% ice and snow. The ice sheet covering the majority of the country is believed to be between 400,000 - 800,000 years old. 

  

November Travel Trivia 

1. What country hosted the first Winter Olympics? 

2. Where is the current record holder for snowfall in one ski season?

3. This city in Japan is often called "the snowiest place on earth".  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...


Q: What country hosted the first Winter Olympics? 

A: The first Winter Olympics was held in Chamonix, France in 1924. Today, Chamonix is a popular winter resort and ski lodge destination, the perfect travel destination for snow sport lovers! 


Q: Where is the current record holder for snowfall in one ski season?

A: Mount Baker in Washington, United States holds the current record for the most snowfall in one ski season. The ski resort town received 1,140 inches of snow in the winter of 1998-1999.

 
Q: This city in Japan is often called "the snowiest place on earth".   

A: Aomori City in the far north of mainland Japan experiences incredible snowfall, averaging 26 feet a year.


September Travel Trivia 

1. Where is the highest capital city in the world? 

2. The largest salt flat in the world is in what country?

3. Where is the Bowler Hat a common fashion choice for women?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: Where is the highest capital city in the world? 

A: La Paz in Bolivia is the highest capital city in world, at 3,650m above sea level. While Sucre is technically the offical capital of Bolivia, La Paz is the seat of government. 


Q: The largest salt flat in the world is in what country?

A: Salar de Uyuni is the worlds largest salt flat and frequently included on Bolivia tour itineraries. Popular for force perspective photography! See all tours to Bolivia »

 
Q: Where is the Bowler Hat a common fashion choice for women?   

A: There are a few stories surrounding why Bolivian women can be seen wearing bowler hats perched high on their heads. The most popular is that a gentleman in the 1920s ordered a large shipment of the hats - common for men at the time - from England, to have a taste of home in Bolivia.

However they were too small - so he sold them to the local women...and the rest is history!

Read more about this unusual fashion in Bolivia » 

 

August Travel Trivia

Macaw in rainforest 

1. What do Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, Ecuador, and French Guiana have in common? 

2. Where in the world might you encounter the aptly named "Jesus Lizard"?

3. A man named Martin Strel once swam the entire length of what river?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What do Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, Ecuador, and French Guiana have in common? 

A: These 9 South American countries can claim to be home to some portion of the Amazon Rainforest! The largest percentage of the Amazon lies in Brazil (64%), followed by Peru (10%). The smallest claim comes from French Guiana (1%).


Q: Where in the world might you encounter the aptly named "Jesus Lizard"?

A: So named for it's ability to "walk" on water, the Jesus Lizard is just one of the many unique species that calls the Amazon Rainforest home. Tours to the Amazon are usually heavily focused on wildlife spotting and nature hikes! See all Amazon tours and river cruises »

Jesus Lizard

 
Q: A man named Martin Strel once swam the entire length of what river?   

A: In 2007, Slovenian Martin Strel became the first person ever to swim the entire length of the Amazon River. At 3,300 miles, this was no small feat! He encountered many obstacles including everything from piranhas to parasites. Strel has also swam the length of the Mississippi and Yangtze rivers.  


July Travel Trivia

Iceland 

1. This country is one of only two places on earth where you can view two of earths tectonic places meeting above the earths surface. 

2. The Arctic Fox is what country's only native mammal?

3. Where will you find one of the oldest parliaments in the world?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: This country is one of only two places on earth where you can view two of earths tectonic places meeting above the earths surface. 

A: Iceland! While most tectonic plates are under the surface, these Mid Atlantic Ridge plates are actually visible above ground in Icelands Thingvellir National Park. They also do go under water, and for a truly unqiue experience you can snorkel between them - if you can brave the cold that is!


Q: The Arctic Fox is what country's only native mammal?

A: Iceland wildlife is relatively sparse - puffins, wild Icelandic horses, and seals are among the main attractions (as well as zero mosquitos!). The Arctic Fox is in fact the only mammal native to Iceland, and there is even a research center dedicated entirely to their survival, as well as promoting eco tourism practices. See all Iceland wildlife tours »

Arctic fox in Iceland

 
Q: Where will you find one of the oldest parliaments in the world?   

A: While most travelers visit Iceland for the spectacular scenery and active adventure activities, some surprising cultural history can be found in as well. Namely the fact that their parliament ("The Alþingi") is one of the oldest in the world, founded in the year 930. 

 

June, 2018, Travel Trivia

Patagonia mountains in Argentina 

1. This country is the 6th largest in the world in terms of wine production. 

2. What dance form, native to South America, was sometimes danced as a "duel" between two men?

3. Where will you find the southernmost city in the world?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: This country is the 6th largest in the world in terms of wine production. 

A: Argentina! The Argentina wine industry is one of the world's foremost producers of Malbec. This grape thrives in the Argentian climate, and will be one of the most common varietals you sample on your winetasting adventures.


Q: What dance form, native to South America, was sometimes danced as a "duel" between two men?

A: It takes two to Tango...

There are many myths and stories surrounding this sensual dance and its origins. Men used to "duel" eachother for ladies attention by attempting to prove prowess and finesse in the dance. They would also learn to Tango both the women's and the men's part in order to improve their leading. Learn more about Argentina »

 
Q: Where will you find the southernmost city in the world?   

A: Ushuaia, Argentina holds this distinction, the capital of Tierra del Fuego in the Patagonia region. 

 

May Travel Trivia

Uganda Gorilla 

1. This nation was once called the "Pearl of Africa" by Winston Churchill 

2. Where would you be if you enjoyed a dish known as "Matoke" (also spelled "Matooke")?

3. The Grey Crowned Crane is the national bird of what country?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: This nation was called the "Pearl of Africa" by Winston Churchill 

A: Uganda holds the prestigious title of the "Pearl of Africa". Famously, Winston Churchill made this claim in his book "My African Journey" published in 1908. However Henry Morton Stanley is also reputed to have used the phrase during his travels through Africa in the 1870s


Q: Where would you be if you enjoyed a dish known as "Matoke" (also spelled "Matooke")?

A: In Uganda, this is a very common household meal. Matoke are a unique banana variety, picked green and then cooked and mashed, often incorporated with vegetables or ground peanuts. Read the Uganda Destination Guide »

 
Q: The Grey Crowned Crane is the national bird of what country?   

A: This elegant looking crane is Uganda's national bird, and also the symbol on Uganda's flag. A very popular find for birding enthusiasts! Visit Uganda »

Gold Crowned Crane Uganda

 

April Travel Trivia 

1. This country has over 700 islands, 130 of which are inhabited. 

2. Where was the world's first transport company established in 1498?

3. The highest mountain the UK is located in what country?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: This country has over 700 islands, 130 of which are inhabited. 

A: Welcome to Scotland! While mainland Scotland attracts thousands visitors with scotch distilleries, castles, highlands, and the mysterious Loch Ness, there is also much to discover out on the water. Even beyond the amazing Isle of Skye, Scotland's islands are stunningly beautiful. Island hopping is not just for the tropics anymore!


Q: Where was the world's first transport company established in 1498?

A: The "Shores Porters Society" in Aberdeen is the world's oldest transport company, still in business today. Aberdeen is also home to the first recorded business in the UK: the Aberdeen Harbor Board, founded in 1136. Visit Scotland...

 
Q: The highest mountain the UK is located in what country?   

A: Scotland lays claim to Ben Nevis, a peak rising 1,345 meters above sea level. The mountain attracts rock climbers, and mountaineers year round, and is also a popular spot for ice climbing. Read the Scotland destination guide...

  

March 2018

1. What is the farthest north natural habitat for penguins? 

2. This was the first area in the world to be declared an UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Where does the only lizard known to swim in the ocean live?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What is the farthest north natural habitat for penguins? 

A: The Galapagos Islands are this month's travel trivia spotlight! The Galapagos penguin is the only known of its species to live and breed in a tropical environment.


Q: This was the first area in the world to be declared an UNESCO World Heritage site.

A: In 1978, The Galapagos became the first designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Today the Galapagos National Park contains the second largest marine protected area in the world (the first is the Great Barrier Reef), and 97% of the Galapagos Islands are protected areas. Visit the Galapagos...

 
Q: Where does the only lizard known to swim in the ocean live?   

A: The Galapagos Marine Iguana is the only member of the lizard family to swim in the ocean. They feed almost entirely on seaweed. Watching them swim is like watching an alien from another planet! Read the Galapagos destination guide...

 

February 2018

1. What is the world's largest country to be made up entirely of islands? 

2. Where will you find the largest flower and the largest lizard in the world?

3. The flag of Monaco is almost exactly the same as the flag of what country?  



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What is the world's largest country to be made up entirely of islands?

A: Indonesia! is our spotlight in this month's travel trivia. There are approximately 17,508 Indonesian islands, including Borneo.


Q: Where will you find the largest flower and the largest lizard in the world?

A: "Rafflesia Arnoldi" as it's scientifically known is the larget flower in the world, found in the jungles of Indonesia. It can grow to be 39 inches in diameter and weigh over 20 lbs. The largest lizard in the world is the Komodo Dragon. See Indonesia Tours...

 
Q: The flag of Monaco is almost exactly the same as the flag of what country?   

A: Indonesia and Monaco at first glad have the same exact flag. Two horizotal colors, red on top and white on the bottom. The only difference is that Indonesia's flag is slightly longer. Additionally, the flag of Poland has the same colors and pattern, only with white on top and red on the bottom.  

 

January 2018 

1. What country boasts 5% of the planets biodiversity, but only .03% of its surface? 

2. This country ranks #1 in the Happy Planet Index.

3. Add the missing volcano to complete the list of three most active in this country: Poas, Irazu, ___? 



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What country boasts 5% of the planets biodiversity, but only .03% of it's surface?

A: Cost Rica is our spotlight in this month's travel trivia. Famous for incredible nature and wildlife, Costa Rica is also a world leader in conservation and sustainable travel. 25% of Costa Rica is currently dedicated to National Parks, which serve to protect its many thousands of plant and animal species.


Q: This country ranks #1 in the Happy Planet Index.

A: Costa Rica is also famous for its "Pura Vida" philosophy. Roughly translated as "Simple Life" it's permates the national culture, which values family, community, and staying active. Costa Ricans are widely considered some of the happiest people on earth - and when you visit it's not hard to see why! See Costa Rica Tours...

 
Q: Add the missing volcano to complete the list of three most active in this country: Poas, Irazu, ___?   

A: Arenal! Costa Rica is home to over 200 areas with volcanic formations, dating back 65 million years. This includes 61 dormant volcanos. Arenal is perhaps the most famous of Costa Rica's active volcanos.  

 

December

1. This country has four official languages, including one that is spoken by less than 70,000 people. 

2. The flag of the Red Cross is also the flag of what country?

3. 70% of what country is covered by Alpine Mountain Range? 



 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: This country has four official languages, including one that is spoken by less than 70,000 people.

A: Switzerland is our spotlight in this month's travel trivia. The four official languages of Switzerland include German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Romansh is spoken in the East of Switzerland, and was established as a national language in 1938.


Q: The flag of the Red Cross is also the flag of what country?

A: The Red Cross was founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 1863 and is still officially based there. Switzerlands flag is the same as the Red Cross flag, with the colors inverted.   

 
Q: 70% of what country is covered by Alpine Mountain Range?   

A: Switzerland is an extremely mountainous country. Most Switzerland tours spend some time exploring the alps many beautiful villages, ski resorts, and hiking trails via the famous cog railways.  

 

November 

1. This country was the first sovereign state to recognize the United States as independent in 1786. Destination #1 for 2018!

2. What country serves a dish called "Cuy"? Adventurous eaters may know...Destination #2 for 2018! 

3. This country has the only non-quadrilateral flag in the world. Destination #3 for 2018! 


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: This country was the first sovereign state to recognize the United States as independent in 1786.

A: Morocco became the first sovereign state in the world to officially recognize the United States with the "Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship". The treaty was signed in 1786 by Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Muhammad III.


Q: What country serves a dish called "Cuy"? Adventurous eaters may know...

A: If you are traveling in Peru, you will most likely sample this dish, a delicacy common throughout the Andean regions. "Cuy" is guniea pig, and the roasted meat is often compared to rabbit.  

 
Q: This country has the only non-quadrilateral flag in the world.   

A: This was probably an easy one for flag trivia nerds. Nepal is the only country in the world to have a triangle shaped flag, pictured below.  

Nepal Flag

 

October 

1. In what country did Halloween originate?

2. What is the name of China's yearly harvest festival, celebrated around the autumnal equinox?

3. Before the 16th century, what word was used to refer to the autumn season? 


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: In what country did Halloween originate?

A: Halloween originated in Ireland. The holiday is thought to be related to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain - when villagers would dress up in masks and light bonfires to ward off ghosts.


Q: What is the name of China's yearly harvest festival, celebrated around the autumnal equinox?

A: The "Moon Festival" is celebrated in China at harvest time. Participants are in for a treat - dancing, brightly colored lanterns everywhere, and delicious "mooncakes".  

 
Q: Before the 16th century, what word was used to refer to the autumn season?   

A: Though the term "fall" makes sense, what with falling leaves everywhere, the term "harvest" was used prior to the 16th century to describe the autumn season.  


September 

1. What city was just voted the "world's most livible city" for the seventh consecutive year?

2. This country is home to Ilulissat Icefjord, the largest glacier outside of Antarctica.

3. Where in the world will you find the highest doctor to patient ratio? 


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What city was just voted the "world's most livible city" for the seventh consecutive year?

A: Melbourne, Australia was recently named the "World's Most Liveable City" for the seventh year in a row by the New York Times.


Q: This country is home to Ilulissat Icefjord, the largest glacier outside of Antarctica.

A: Greenland, which is 80% ice, is home to this incredible icefjord and glacier. Illulissat Icefjord was named an UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004. 

 
Q: Where in the world will you find the highest doctor to patient ratio?   

A: Surprisingly, perhaps, Cuba actually has the highest ratio of doctors to patients.  


August 

1. Where is the largest cave in the world?

2. How many bats live in Braken Cave - home to the world's largest bat colony?

3. What is the official term for cave exploration? 


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: Where is the largest cave in the world?

A: Kurbera-Voronja in Georgia lays claim to the world's largest cave.


Q: How many bats live in Braken Cave - home to the world's largest bat colony?

A: Over 15 million bats make their home here...shudder... 

 
Q: What is the official term for cave exploration?  

A: Spelunking (USA & Canada) or Potholing (UK & Ireland), is the official term for exploring caves. "Speleology" is the study of caves.


July 

1. Where is the largest castle in the world?

2. In what country will you find the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle?

3. What is the oldest occupied castle in the world?


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: Where is the largest castle in the world?

A: The largest castle in the world is located in Prague, Czech Republic. 


Q: In what country will you find the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle?

A: Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany was used as inspiration for this 1959 animated castle. 

 
Q: What is the oldest occupied castle in the world?  

A: Windsor Castle in England has been a home for the British Royal Family for over 1,000 years.

 

June

1. Where is the longest natural beach in the world?

2. What country would you be in if you were drinking a Caipirinha? 

3. How many islands are there in Greece?


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: Where is the longest natural beach in the world

A: Bangladesh. The Cox's Bazar beach in Bangladesh is 75 miles long.  


Q: What country would you be in if you were drinking a Caipirinha?

A: Brazil. The national drink of Brazil is made with cachaca, sugar, and lime.

 
Q: How many islands are there in Greece

A: 6,000. The islands are scattered throughout the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Only 277 of Greece's islands are inhabited.

May 

1. This well-known desert is actually the world's 3rd largest.

 2. What country would you likely be in if eating 'tagine?' 

 3. Before the Panama Canal, ships wanting to cross between the Atlantic & Pacific needed to go around Cape ____.


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: This well-known desert is actually the world's 3rd largest.

A: The Sahara. Since technically both Antarctica and the Arctic are deserts, the Sahara is actually the 3rd largest in the world.


Q: What country would you likely be in if eating 'tagine?'

A: Morocco. This delicious dish made in a traditional clay tagine can consist of chicken, rice, vegetables and aromatic spices.

 
Q: Before the Panama Canal, ships wanting to cross between the Atlantic & Pacific needed to go around Cape ____.

A: Cape Horn. Cape Horn is the southern-most tip of South America 

April

1. Modern day Iran used to go by what other name?

 2. What country would you likely be in if eating 'balut?' 

 3. How many countries border Chile?


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: Modern day Iran used to go by what other name? 

A: Persia. In 1935, Reza Shah asked the world to refer to his country as Iran.


Q: What country would you likely be in if eating 'balut?'

A: The Philippines. This acquired taste consists of a fertilized duck egg, often bought at street-side stands.

 
Q: How many countries border Chile

A: 3. Despite its long, snaky shape, Chile is only bordered by Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru.


March

 1. What is the official emblem of Ireland?

 2. Kissing the Blarney Stone is supposed to give you what?

 3. How many countries does Ireland border?


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What is the official emblem of Ireland?

A: The harp, not the shamrock, is the official emblem. Years ago, the Irish would play this instrument during celebrations.


Q: Kissing the Blarney Stone is supposed to give you what?

A: The gift of gab and flattery. But be careful not to fall while kissing it!

 
Q: How many countries does Ireland border?

A: 0. Ok, kind of a trick question, sorry. Ireland is bordered to the north by Northern Ireland, which technically, is not a country, but rather a part of the United Kingdom.


February

1. What famous British city claims the birthplace of William Shakespeare? 

2. This building, the tallest in London, has a 'sharp' nickname.

3. The Beatles called this British city home.


 

Rover, the guide dogI've fetched the answers for you below...

 


Q: What famous British city claims the birthplace of William Shakespeare?

A: Stratford-upon-Avon, located in England's West Midlands, was where the famous playwright was born.


Q: This building, the tallest in London, has a 'sharp' nickname.

A: The Shard is a glass tower that is over 1,000 feet tall.

 
Q: The Beatles called this British city home.

A: The boys were from Liverpool


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