These top 10 global daily quirks are simply jaw-dropping! Scroll down quickly and take a look at those magical cultural customs that leave foreigners puzzled.
TOP 10: Co-Ed Baths Are Totally Normal in Japan
For most, bathing is a private ritual—but Japan flips that script! Co-ed onsens (public hot springs) and even parent-child baths are totally normal here. Rooted in relaxation and family bonding, these communal soaks aren’t about awkwardness—they’re about purity and comfort. Foreigners often cringe at first, but following basic rules (wash before entering, no swimsuits) lets you embrace the chill, judgment-free vibe.
TOP 9: Seoul Bathrooms Stock Multiple Toilet Paper Rolls
Ever panicked when public bathroom toilet paper runs out? Seoul has the fix: multiple toilet paper rolls in every bathroom, mounted together or in handy holders with extras. For foreigners used to single-roll setups, this small detail feels like a luxury. Whether at a café, subway station or mall, Seoul’s bathrooms prioritize convenience—total game-changer.Keep reading—Norway’s secret to happiness is tiny but genius!
TOP 8: Norway’s Bike Seat Shelters
Norway’s high happiness rankings might have a tiny secret: dedicated shelters for bike seats! Sitting on a wet seat post-rain is the worst, so Norwegians built roofed covers over bike racks to keep them dry in rain, snow or sleet. This simple, thoughtful touch shows how the country prioritizes daily comfort. For foreigners used to soggy seats or drying towels, it’s a dream—small wins equal big happiness!
TOP 7: Seoul Train’s Pregnant Seats Come With Adorable Dolls
Most public transport has priority seats for pregnant women, but Seoul trains step it up with adorable plush dolls next to them. These soft, smiling dolls aren’t just decor—they gently remind others to give up their seats. For foreigners, this is both surprising and heartwarming. It turns a basic rule into something fun and friendly—who can resist a cute doll? Seoul trains just got way more charming.
TOP 6: Japanese Hotels Dress Hand Sanitizer Bottles in Kimonos
Japan’s love for detail and cuteness shines in this hotel trend: hand sanitizer bottles dressed in tiny kimonos! Instead of plain bottles, hotels slip them into mini, colorful kimonos with traditional patterns and small obi sashes. This playful touch turns sanitizing hands from a chore into a fun moment. For foreigners, spotting one in a hotel room is a delightful surprise—Instagram-worthy and totally stylish.Up next: A US bathroom hack that’ll make you wonder why it’s not everywhere!
TOP 5: Washington State Bathrooms Have Mouthwash Stations
Most public bathrooms have soap and maybe hand sanitizer, but Washington State adds mouthwash stations! These free dispensers near sinks let you freshen up post-meal, after coffee or anytime. For foreigners who carry travel-sized mouthwash or stress about bad breath in public, this is a win. Found in restaurants, airports and offices, it’s practical and convenient—why don’t more places do this?
TOP 4: This Building Looks Like It’s Straight Out of Minecraft
Gamers, prepare to do a double-take: this building looks like it’s straight out of Minecraft! With angular shapes, bold colors and pixelated design, it’s a real-life version of the game’s creations—no curves, just chunky blocks that feel like a virtual world come to life. For foreigners (especially gamers), it’s surreal. People travel miles to snap photos of this quirky, unique structure—who knew architecture could feel like a video game level?
TOP 3: Rent a Scooter to Get Around Istanbul Airport
Istanbul Airport is massive—you might walk a mile from gate to baggage claim. But instead of hiking, you can rent electric scooters to zip around! Perfect for anyone in a hurry, traveling with kids or tired of walking. For foreigners used to slogging through huge airports (looking at you, Dubai and Atlanta), this is a luxury. It’s not just convenient—it’s fun, making air travel way less stressful.Japan’s polite solution to loud phone calls is next—total game-changer!
TOP 2: Japan’s Dedicated Phone Booths for Chatting in Shared Spaces
We all hate loud phone calls in cafes, trains or libraries—and Japan has the solution: dedicated soundproof phone booths in shared spaces. Clean and easy to find in malls, stations and offices, they let you take calls without disturbing others. For foreigners used to whispering or stepping outside (even in bad weather), this is a game-changer. It shows Japan’s focus on public harmony—why don’t all countries have these?
TOP 1: In Brazil, Women Prefer Hair Lightening Over Hair Removal
Brazil’s beauty trend might surprise you: women here prioritize hair lightening over removal! While waxing and shaving are common in the West, Brazilian women often lighten body hair (arms, legs, upper lips) to blend it in instead of removing it. Lightening creams and sprays are widely available, and the look is seen as natural and attractive. For foreigners used to “no hair is best,” this is a fresh, empowering take on self-acceptance—and way less painful than waxing!