Unusual & Bizarre Laws from Around the World

7 Lesser-known Laws from Around the World

If walking on eggshells could be worse, there are rules and regulations that even the most careful person must not be aware of. However, ignorance of the law is never a good excuse, and you should research well before visiting any country. As you will realise later, you never know which everyday activity may cost you a fine or penalty in another country.

If you're off to any of these countries, maybe knowing these rules may help later in case of unexpected situations. Another thing that will help you during unexpected situations is international travel insurance. It will help you in case of many flight, travel and trip-related emergencies abroad. Other than trip insurance, knowing the local laws of the country you're visiting will save a lot of time and money later. Here are some lesser-known laws that will definitely save you from some form of a penalty while you're busy exploring one or more of these places:

1. No Camouflage Outfits Allowed in the Caribbean

   We all love our olive and khaki cargos, right? Nothing screams relaxed but stylish as a leafy camouflage trousers. However, many countries in the Caribbean, including Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, have banned people from wearing camouflage clothing. Not just these countries, but many other non-Caribbean nations like the Philippines and Saudi Arabia have also banned these clothes. As a tourist to these countries, you're better off without these clothes.

2. No Feeding Pigeons in Venice

   Indians have a special affinity for pigeons, it's not even surprising to spot someone feeding pigeons in random cities in or outside India. However, if you plan to visit Venice, then please don't try feeding the pigeons. The iconic Saint Mark's Square used to be famous for its pigeon-clas floors and images. However, since 2008 it has been illegal to feed pigeons here. If caught, you can face a fine starting at EUR 50 and going as high as EUR 700.

   You May Like to Read: Travel Insurance for Italy

3. No Chewing Gum in Singapore

   This one may disappoint many people who simply can't do without a bubble gum, but Singapore's strict laws have banned the sale, possession or chewing of bubble gum since 1992. Any person found doing either of these can face a hefty fine of up to USD 100,000 as well as a risk of prison for as long as two years.

   As bizarre as the law may seem, the intention behind it is pretty solid. The country has banned chewing gum as it's responsible for significant environmental damage. As a tourist, it's best to avoid carrying any gum and stick to mints instead!

   You May Like to Read: Perfect 5-Days Singapore Itinerary

4. No Questions in North Korea

   North Korea is known for its strict laws and mystery. It is among those very heavily controlled countries where you must avoid any questions or curiosity you may have. If by chance you wish to visit this country, you must ‘deposit' your passport to them, be ready to follow all their rules and conditions and avoid any thing that can land you in trouble.

   It is a criminal act to show disrespect to present and former North Korean leaders. Anyone who does so can face arrest, expulsion or imprisonment. If you can't follow all these laws (and more), then you should reconsider travelling.

5. No Unwashed Cars in Dubai

   Dubai Municipality takes its city's aesthetics very seriously. To ensure that public parking spaces in Dubai fit the pristine image, any vehicle owner who has a dirty vehicle in these public parking must pay Dirham 500 as a fine. If you're someone who visits Dubai frequently or drives around friends'/relatives' cars without caring much about the dust, make sure to get it washed timely!

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6. No Building Sandcastles in Spanish Sands!

   Well, not throughout Spain, but many places, including the famous Levante Beach, Arona, and Arica in Tenerife Beach, have banned building large sandcastles on their beaches. A seemingly harmless beach activity, building sandcastles comes with a heft fine on several Spanish beaches. Since 2016, anyone found breaching this law can be fined up to EUR 150 if they don't have a municipal permit before starting their construction.

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7. No Buddha Selfies or Tattoos in Sri Lanka!

   Sri Lanka is a stunning country offering a lot of natural and historical beauty to travellers. The country has some of the most beautiful Buddhist temples, as a large chunk of the Sri Lankan population is Buddhist. However, the country is very serious about its religion and doesn't tolerate any mistreatment of Buddhist images and sculptures.

   To give you an idea, Sri Lankan authorities have banned visitors with visible Buddha tattoos on their bodies. You also can't take selfies with Buddha statues or pose while standing in front of them.

   You May Like to Read: Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka

Over to You,

These are just a few examples of some unusual rules that may affect your trip abroad. We hope the article was able to shed some light on lesser-known but important pointers before your travel. As a safeguard, make sure to read up on important laws of the country you wish to visit. You should also buy a good travel insurance plan which covers various legal expenses incase you end up needing legal assistance in some or more scenarios during your international trip.