Travel has always been one of our biggest passions. It’s something that, when done with the right sense of adventure and open mind, can take you to a whole new level of understanding – both of ourselves and of others.
Indeed, there are many places and attractions that are must-sees. Things to check off that traditional bucket-list. However, we’ve always been fonder of the non-traditional bucket-list type things. There are some very, shall we say “unusual” man-made tourist “attractions” around the world. Some that are must-sees for the non-traditional traveler. And some that are…well, you can decide for yourself whether any of these interesting sights would make your list or not.
South Korea’s Toilet-Themed Park:
Yes, the porcelain god has finally got an altar at South Korea’s Haewoojae, which translates loosely as “a place of sanctuary where one can solve one’s worries”. This is a theme park, around the history and culture of toilets, was built in memory of the city of Suwon’s former Mayor who dedicated much time and resources to improving the city’s public toilets. And we’re certain he would be flushed with pride were he to see it today. Admission is free but donations are accepted. There is much “toilet themed” art to peruse and the park even hosts a Golden Poop Festival.
The Rumah Terbalik Upside-Down House:
Located in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the upside-down house is one of only a few like it in the world. Opened in 2012, it has been entered into the Malaysian book of records as, unsurprisingly, the only structure of its kind in Malaysia. If you’d like to experience walking on the ceiling as furniture and household appliances hover above your head, tours are available. In the garage, a car is parked upside down. Definitely strange, and seeming to defy all reasoning, most people just ask “Why?”
The Cockroach Hall of Fame:
Located in Plano, Texas this also raises the question “WHY?” The museum was opened by a pest control specialist who decided he wanted to try and make people smile instead of scream when they saw the creepy, crawling creatures. The museum features cockroach corpses dressed in costumes and posed inside tiny elaborate sets like the “Liberoachi” in which one is playing a tiny piano.
There’s the “David Letteroach,” and of course the “Marilyn Monroach”. In case you work up an appetite wandering through the exhibits there are dried roach-larvae bbq flavored snacks available.
The Gnome Reserve:
For those who have tired of the thrill of wildlife reserves, the Gnome Reserve, located in West Putford, England is a one-of-a-kind experience. More than 1,000 gnomes and pixies are spread throughout a natural outdoor habitat along with over 250 labeled species of wildflowers. There’s even an on-site museum with antique gnomes. Not to worry about the dress code. Pointed hats and fishing rods are loaned out to visitors for free, “so you don’t embarrass the gnomes.”
The Gruselkabinet – Cabinet of Horrors:
This museum is the only permanently opened World War II-era air-raid shelter in Berlin, Germany. Known for its collection of frightening, horror-themed objects and artifacts, this bizarre place offers three levels of terror. On the ground floor you’ll find creepy mannequins reenacting barbaric medical treatments performed during the war. The top floor features a haunted house maze with costumed actors jumping out at unsuspecting visitors and the basement, by comparison, is pretty tame filled with historical exhibitions. This is definitely an attraction you won’t forget.
Carhenge:
Located in Alliance, Nebraska, this monument has nothing to do with druids. We even know who built it (artist Jim Reinders and his family) and why (because it’s cool). The Stonehenge replica is made up of 39 classic cars, all painted grey and arranged in the same proportions as the original.
Since the dedication of Carhenge on the summer solstice in 1987, a number of other car artworks have been added including “The Ford Seasons” inspired by Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and “The Carnastoga Wagon”
The Karni Mata Temple – Temple of Rats:
Located in Deshnok, in Rajasthan, India, this is literally a temple of rats. Named for the Goddess Karni who believed her family members wouldn’t ever die, but instead would be reincarnated as rats. The towns residents firmly believe that the population of more than 20,000 rats are, in fact, members of Karni goddess’ family and provide them with food and refuge.
A most unusual tourist attraction, if you happen to have a phobia of rats, this could be the place to break it as the rats are said to be quite friendly.
World’s Largest Ball of Paint:
It began as just a normal baseball. But after 40 years, and over 25,000 coats of paint, it’s now a 4,200-pound (1,900 kg) giant ball of paint. You can visit it and add your own coat of paint by heading out to Alexandria, Indiana. Does it look like a giant testicle? Sorta. But one thing’s for sure, in a life-or-death paintball match, this would be a solid nuclear option.
The Big Lobster:
If giant, kitschy monuments are your thing, none have as much personality as Larry, the Big Lobster. Built in 1979 to celebrate the town of Kingston, SE Australia’s seafood, wine, cheese and timber industries, Larry stands 55 feet high (17 meters), 49 feet long (15 meters) and 45 feet wide (14 meters) and weighs about 4 tons. At its base is a tourist complex, complete with restaurant and gift shop.
The Icelandic Phallological Museum:
Even though it’s “members only” on display, you don’t have to be a member to tour the world’s largest display of penises and penile parts. More than 300 penises from more than 100 species of mammals are on display. If you’ve ever wanted to see a whale penis in a jar, this is the place to do it. In 2011 the museum obtained its first human penis but apparently there was a problem with the “detachment” so the museum continues its search for a “bigger and better one.” In the words of Siguour Hjartarson, the founder of the museum, “Collecting penises is like collecting anything. You can never stop, you can never catch up, you can always get a new one, a better one.” You gotta admire someone who has a passion for their work!
We'll share some more interesting places around the world in future blogs.
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