Every so often, we’re hit with the travel bug and we feel the need to take off on a new adventure. Our feet take us far and wide, from exotic destinations to places that are closer to home.
But wherever we are, we’re exposed to new experiences, and sometimes even cultural and spiritual differences…some that could potentially get you into a lot of trouble.So for those getting ready to pack their bags and explore, we’ve rounded up 15 of the most bizarre laws that can unknowingly get you into big trouble abroad. Take note!
RELATED STORIES
1. Jaywalking in North America.
In Canada, the United States, Iran, and Singapore, crossing the road where there isn’t a designated pedestrian crossing is a big no-no. The seemingly harmless offense can result in fines, a court appearance, and even prison!
2. Smoking and chewing gum in Singapore.
Regulations on smoking in certain public places are extreme . If you’re not careful, you can end up with a $7,500 fine! Chewing gum is also regulated to keep public spaces clean. Dangerous stuff here, people!
3. Wearing high heels in Greece.
High heels have been banned from many historic sites across Greece to prevent unnecessary wear-and-tear to the ancient monuments. Ladies, leave the deadly stilettos at home.
4. Not wearing enough clothes in Spain.
Although Spain is a friendly European country, tourists are occasionally charged with semi-nudity for wearing their bikinis from the beach into the city! Layer up unless you want to be fined over $120!
5. Peeing in the ocean in Portugal.
That’s right, at your inconvenience, you best not be urinating while taking a plunge at a Portugal beach. Although this law is near impossible to successfully monitor, pee at your own risk!
6. Dancing after midnight in Japan.
This law was introduced in 1948 to regulate the sex industry. It was altered in 2015 to allow dancing after midnight as long as the lighting is sufficient. So don’t you dare dance…unless the lighting is just right.
7. Buying alcohol in Thailand.
This is a tricky one. It’s illegal to purchase alcohol outside of the hours of 11:00 am and 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm to midnight. Vendors caught disobeying these time slots can be fined or even face a two-year prison sentence!
8. Stopping on the motorway in Germany.
The terrifying autobahn has a strict “no stopping” policy. So plan ahead and fill up with gas to avoid blocking traffic or else you may get a hefty fine !
9. Not flushing the toilet in Singapore.
Another strange law in the Southeast Asian city could land you a hefty fine for not flushing down your *ahem* goods. While it’s hard to get caught, those that do regret it immediately.
10. Texting while walking in Honolulu, Hawaii.
This law is an attempt to make pedestrians share responsibility for road safety with drivers. Anyone caught even looking at an electronic device while crossing a road can be fined! Road safety first, folks!
11. Wearing pink shorts on Sundays in Victoria, Australia.
This old law is from the Victorian era, and the reasoning is unclear. But if you’re ever in the area, be very weary of committing this fashion crime!
12. Feeding Venice, Italy’s pigeons.
This law was put in place in 2008 in an attempt to lessen the amount of bird poop on Venice’s famous monuments around the city. You don’t want to be that person, do you?
13. Suspiciously holding a salmon in the UK.
richardfarrell_fising
I know, WTF? There lives a “Salmon Act of 1986” that states that it’s illegal to hold a salmon under suspicious circumstances. You should be in the clear if you hold with confidence, though.
14. Swearing in public in Australia.
Three Australian states have banned swearing in public. The Caribbean was also known to have 50 Cent arrested when he swore on stage at a concert in St. Kitts. Don’t be a potty mouth!
15. Hiking naked in Switzerland.
Hiking in the nude was banned after a naked German man walked past a family picnicking in the Alps in 2009. That’s enough to ruin a family vacation!
You now have all the tools to be completely respectful while traveling abroad.
So mind your manners and brush up on the laws of the countries and cities you’re visiting! And most of all, don’t get caught suspiciously holding salmon!
