We typically envision borders as hard lines on a map, marked by fences, checkpoints, and official notices. But throughout the globe, there exist sites where boundaries are much more compelling—sometimes even intangible—transforming common landscapes into breathing, living monuments of history, politics, and culture.
A glimpse at some of the most intriguing and unique locations where countries intersect:
1. Baarle-Hertog and Baarle-Nassau (Belgium and Netherlands)
In the twin villages of Baarle-Hertog (Belgium) and Baarle-Nassau (Netherlands), the border runs through streets, homes, and even cafes! It’s so complex that some homes have doors in two nations. A building’s nationality is decided by where its front door is. Here, a few steps would take you literally from Belgium to the Netherlands and back.
2. The Diomede Islands (Russia and USA)
Just 2.4 miles apart from each other, Big Diomede (Russia) and Little Diomede (USA) lie in the Bering Strait. Yet, though close to each other, they are divided by the International Date Line, so they are practically a day behind or ahead in time. This has resulted in Big Diomede being referred to as “Tomorrow Island” and Little Diomede as “Yesterday Island”—where you get to witness the future, literally!
3. The Tri-Point of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands (Vaalserberg)
You can stand in three countries simultaneously: Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands at Vaalserberg. A little monument indicates the location, and surrounding attractions make it a pleasant tourist spot. There is even a labyrinth to commemorate the curious nature of this triple border.
4. Derby Line, Vermont (USA) and Stanstead, Quebec (Canada)
In these twin cities, the border cuts across streets—and even across buildings. The Haskell Free Library and Opera House notoriously straddles the two nations, with the library in Canada and the reading room in the U.S. People visit from the Canadian side but can read books while standing in America!
5. Mount Everest (Nepal and China)
The Earth’s summit runs along the boundary between Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Mountaineers from each nation climb the mountain up distinct paths, and the peak is an awe-inspiring international border. A real-life rooftop handshake across nations!
6. The Peace Arch Park (USA and Canada)
Situated between British Columbia and Washington State, Peace Arch Park is an unusual emblem of the amity between the United States and Canada. Travelers are able to stroll around the park freely and technically cross the international border without passing through customs—though going outside the park into either nation necessitates formal immigration protocols.
7. Hotel Arbez (France and Switzerland)
This quaint hotel is constructed right across the boundary of France and Switzerland. Some rooms have the bed in France and the bathroom in Switzerland! Originally built to capitalize on a boundary treaty, Hotel Arbez has been home to visitors, war refugees, and even clandestine negotiations during World War II.
WHY THESE BORDERS FASCINATE US?
These peculiar borders are not just geographic curiosities; they are testaments to mutual histories, entangled politics, and the imagination of humans. They are a reminder that though borders may separate, they may also unite humans in novel and beautiful ways.
FINAL REMARKS
If you’re someone who loves travel with a twist, visiting these unique borders offers not just a stamp on your passport, but a deeper appreciation for the invisible lines that shape our world.
Additional Reading – YOUR ULTIMATE ADVENTURE TRAVEL BUCKET LIST
