1) The first modern Olympic marathon race was held at the 1896 Olympics in Athens and has since become one of the most iconic and challenging events in athletics.

2) The Dead Sea, bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west, is a hypersaline lake known for its high salt concentration. It is the lowest point on Earth's land surface and provides unique buoyancy, attracting visitors who enjoy floating in its waters.

3) The pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup, is a signature dish of Vietnamese cuisine. It typically features a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and various toppings, such as thinly sliced beef or chicken, herbs, bean sprouts, and lime. Pho is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting meal any time of the day. It is known for its complex flavors, aromatic herbs, and the balance between the savory broth and fresh ingredients.

4) The world's first credit card was introduced in 1950 by Diners Club.