The South China Sea is a body of water tucked between China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Taiwan. The Sea is vitally important to all countries and has recently been the source of significant border tensions stemming from China’s claim to the vast majority of the area.
Qinghai-Tibet Railway: Highest rail route in the world
Starting in Xining in Central China, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is one of the most unique rail routes in the world as it traverses mountains along the Tibet Plateau on its way to the city of Lhasa.
Chinese Spy Balloon: Suspicious balloon travels over sensitive US military sites
In early February 2023, the US government reported the presence of a high altitude balloon travelling over US and Canadian airspace. It was quickly found to be a Chinese spy balloon, part of the country’s developing surveillance capabilities.
Kinmen & Lienchiang: Taiwanese islands just miles from China
There are two small island chains (administered by the ROC as “counties”) that are located within 10 miles or less from mainland China called Kinmen & Lienchiang counties.
Djibouti Military Bases: A multi-country presence in a strategic location
Because of its strategic location for commerce, Djibouti has attracted the eyes of foreign military powers keen on protecting their nation’s interests – US, France, Japan and China all have significant permanent military bases in the small African country.
Lake Balkhash: 50% fresh, 50% salty, 100% unique
Kazakhstan, one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, is home to Lake Balkhash which is half freshwater and half saltwater.