The
Cold Facts of Foreign Cities
Whether you're planning a trip or simply enjoy learning about the world, there are always new and interesting facts to discover about different cities around the globe. In this article, we'll explore some lesser-known, "cold" facts about several foreign cities that might surprise you.
1. Moscow, Russia: Hiding from the cold in the Metro
Moscow is well-known for its infamous winters, with temperatures plunging well below freezing. However, what many visitors might not realize is that the Moscow Metro is more than just a convenient means of transportation - it's also a popular place for locals to seek refuge from the cold. With its elaborate architecture and warm, heated interiors, the metro system is the perfect place to warm up and stay cozy during the frigid winter months.
2. Reykjavik, Iceland: The city of heated sidewalks
Although Iceland is known for its stunning natural landscape, it's also home to some impressive feats of engineering - namely, the world's largest system of heated sidewalks. In the capital city of Reykjavik, more than half of the city's sidewalks are heated using geothermal energy, which keeps them snow-free and safe for pedestrians even during the coldest months of the year.
3. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: The world's largest indoor ski slope
When you think of a hot desert city like Abu Dhabi, skiing probably isn't the first activity that comes to mind. However, the city is home to the world's largest indoor ski slope, which spans 22,500 square meters and features a 70-meter drop. With temperatures outside reaching well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it's no wonder that many residents and visitors opt to hit the slopes indoors.
4. Tromso, Norway: The city of the "midnight sun"
Located in northern Norway, Tromso is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" and experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year. However, during the summer months, the city is treated to a unique phenomenon known as the "midnight sun." Due to the city's location above the Arctic Circle, the sun never sets for a period of several weeks, resulting in 24 hours of daylight - a truly surreal experience for visitors and residents alike.
5. Montreal, Canada: The world's largest underground city
Montreal is a city that's well-equipped to handle cold weather, thanks in large part to its massive underground complex known as the "RÉSO" or "La Ville Souterraine" - the world's largest underground city. Stretching more than 32 kilometers, the network of tunnels and interconnected buildings allows residents and visitors to stay warm and dry during the city's harsh winters, while also providing a plethora of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
These cold facts are just a few examples of the fascinating and unique aspects of foreign cities around the world. From seeking warmth in Moscow's metro to hitting the slopes in the heat of Abu Dhabi, these cities prove that even in the face of extreme weather conditions, there's always a way to stay cozy and enjoy all that these destinations have to offer.