Israel

Why it sticks

1. 1

   The shore of the Dead Sea, more than 430 m below sea level, is the lowest land point on Earth.

2. 2

   Modern Hebrew is the only language successfully revived for everyday use after centuries as a mainly liturgical language.

3. 3

   Jerusalem is its proclaimed capital, but its status is disputed and most countries keep their embassies in Tel Aviv.

• Yellow licence plates with an 'IL' strip.
• Hebrew script, often with Arabic and English on the same road sign.
• Red-and-white and black-and-white striped kerbs.
• Drives on the right; dry Mediterranean landscape and pale limestone buildings.