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Bisnis.com, JAKARTA – The world is divided into continents, states, countries and provinces based on borders or border.

This demarcation plays an important role in separating cultural identities and traditions. Boundaries are fundamental to the organization and effective governance of society.

Although many borders are due to linguistic or geographic differences, there are some borders whose origins are rather strange.

Here are some unusual borders you may not know about!

1. Victoria Falls: Zambia and Zimbabwe

Also known as “Thundering Smoke”, there is a border between Zambia and Zimbabwe on the Zambezi River. Among the largest waterfalls in the world, this waterfall attracts tourists from all over the world.

The waterfall flows from a height of over 100m, creating a visible mist and offering a variety of activities such as bungee jumping, whitewater rafting and much more.

It is a must-see natural wonder and a breathtaking sight to admire on both sides of the border.

2. Bir-Tawil: Egypt and Sudan

Also known as the Bir-Tawil Triangle, it is an area surrounded by Egypt to the north and Sudan to the west, east and south. Despite its four corners, the region is often neglected by both countries due to its lack of harsh terrain and resources.

As a result, no one claims ownership of this territory. In the historical process of drawing boundaries between Britain and Egypt, Bir-Tawil was included in the first border but not the second.

Interestingly, travelers were happy to plant flags on these unwanted territories, thereby declaring them their own.

3. Haskell Library and Opera: United States and Canada

The borders of Quebec, Vermont, Canada and the United States are unique because of the convenient location of the Haskell Free Library and Opera House. It was deliberately built on the border to provide cultural and intellectual enrichment to both sides.

Entrance to the library is in the United States, but all books are in Canada. The artists are in Canada, while the audience is in the United States and the reading room is on international territory. This is indeed an extraordinary frontier.

4. Hôtel Arbez: France and Switzerland

It is an extraordinary place located on the border of France and Switzerland. The hotel is uniquely divided with half being in Switzerland and half in France. This special arrangement allows guests to seamlessly explore both countries without having to leave the hotel premises.

This hotel’s extraordinary frontier location caters to travelers seeking a memorable and distinctive experience. Additionally, the hotel harmoniously combines Swiss and French cultures, offering visitors an immersive and enriching stay.

5. Iguazu Falls: Argentina and Brazil

With over 270 waterfalls on the Iguazu River, it is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. It straddles the border of Brazil and Argentina, with Devil’s Throat being the most famous waterfall, which is a U-shaped ravine 82m high and 150m wide.

The waterfall is surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest, attracting both adventurers and nature lovers. Tourists can view the waterfall from different points on the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, take a boat trip and also stroll along the elevated walkway on the Argentinian side to enjoy the magnificent views.

6. Korean DMZ: North Korea and South Korea

The Korean Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ, is a narrow strip located near the 38th parallel north that separates North and South Korea. Created at the end of the Korean War in 1953, this neutral zone stretches approximately 240 km across the peninsula. Despite its demilitarized status, the Korean DMZ constitutes an unusual and sad border in that the war never officially ended and the ceasefire continues to this day.

7. San Diego-Tijuana: United States and Mexico

The San Diego-Tijuana region, straddling the United States-Mexico border, is a leading binational metropolis with nearly 5 million residents in 2012, making it the largest cross-border region.

Although this border has checkpoints and fences like other international borders, what makes this region different is that people can freely interact and communicate across the fence, creating a vibrant and friendly environment.

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