11 weird laws from around the world

Thailand

If you’re a vaper, listen up. As sweet-smelling as your E-cigs are, leave them at home if you’re holidaying in Thailand. The FCDO says “you can’t bring vaporisers, like e-cigarettes, e-baraku or refills into Thailand. You can get fined, or even sent to prison if you ignore the ban.” It’s also worth bearing in mind that smoking is banned on lots of beaches around Thailand, too, to protect the environment.

Greece

History buffs, leave your heels at home. Stilettos, wedges, platforms – they’re all banned at some famous historical hotspots in Greece, like the Acropolis. It’s all to protect the sites from damage – plus, you’ll be a lot comfier when you’re exploring them.

Sri Lanka

Buddhism’s the main religion in Sri Lanka – in fact, over 70% of the country practise the religion. So, it’s really important to be respectful. The FCDO states that “the mistreatment of Buddhist images and artefacts is a serious offence and tourists have been convicted for this. British nationals have been refused entry to Sri Lanka or faced deportation for having visible tattoos of Buddha.” Plus, make sure you don’t pose for pics standing in front of a statue of Buddha.

Caribbean

Leave your camo garments at home if you’re heading off on a Caribbean holiday. In St Lucia, St Vincent, and Barbados it’s illegal for anyone, including little ones, to wear camouflage-patterned clothes.

Spain

If you’re feeling adventurous, and set out on a hike in the woods in Spain, be extra careful. The FCDO tells us that “causing a forest fire is treated as a criminal offence in Spain even if unintentional”.

Turkey

Respect’s the name of the game in Turkey. The FCDO advises that “it is an offence to insult the Turkish nation or the national flag, or to deface or tear up currency. If you are convicted of any of these offences, you could face a prison sentence of between six months and three years.”

Italy

If you’re on a romantic Italian holiday in Venice, and want to impress your other half by making like Snow White, avoid St Mark’s Square. It’s illegal to feed the pigeons there – this rule was put in place to help limit the number of pigeons, as they can damage the historic features that make the square so unique.

Singapore

You might notice that in Singapore the streets are super clean. That’s partly because chewing gum’s totally banned – unless it’s for medical purposes.

Switzerland

Late-night loo-users beware – flushing the toilet after 10pm is illegal in some apartment blocks in Switzerland. Why? Well, it’s all to do with noise pollution. The Swiss like their sleep undisturbed.

France

Bad news for fans of the trunk – in France, budgie smugglers are the only men’s swimming attire allowed in public pools.

Germany

Make sure you fuel up before you go on the motorway – it’s not only annoying to run out of petrol on the autobahn – it’s actually illegal.

In the know and ready to go?

You’re all set to get inspired. Check out the best beaches in Italy and Greece, find out the top places to visit in Thailand, and when to go. Plus, find out which Caribbean Island is for you.

 
*All information correct at the time of writing. Make sure you visit the FCDO’s website before you travel.


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Author: Hannah Stratton