Interesting facts you didn't know about some popular holiday destinations

By Emily Collins


In terms of its modernism, Dubai is one of the youngest places on the planet. Its swaggering skyline only erupted from the ground over the past few decades, like it's been in some architectural cold war. But this jaw-dropping feat wasn't achieved by the nationals alone.

More than 80% of the population in Dubai are expats, meaning that nationals are the minority. The extreme influx of non-Emiratis has caused the tripling of the 1995 population figure of just 700,000, with the current estimate being 2.1 million. Despite the recession, many are still flocking to Dubai to be a part of its development.

Morocco's population is about the same as Canada's, at 32 million people, although its landmass is more similar to that of California.Though there are some Christian and Jewish, a large percentage of the population is Muslim. This means that most nationals do not drink alcohol. The 100% domestic booze tax is enough to put those who might be tempted right off. Oddly, the country has a fair few wine regions from which the produce is thought to be good.

Like us Brits, the Moroccan people love their tea. The only difference being they like theirs green. And there is a big variety to choose from. In fact, there is even a proper tea ceremony, where people are shown how to prepare and drink tea 'properly' - much like in China. Be careful, though: it's not uncommon for Moroccans to have as many as six lumps of sugar in their tea, which could be a little sweet for British tastes!

Home to the ancient city of Carthage, Tunisia played a vital role in the Mediterranean. As it is located so close to the edge of North Africa, it became a sort of hub with links to important routes for shipping. The Arabs, Romans, French and Ottomans all viewed Tunisia as strategically significance over the years, using it as a regional vantage point.




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