The world can be a little bit weird sometimes. Especially, when it comes to laws.
Now it’s known that you can get arrested for swearing in the Caribbean (St. Kitts prohibits the use of profanity in public), and you can’t even chew gum in Singapore. So lately, we’ve been wondering what other countries people can accidentally get in trouble in when traveling.
Turns out there are a lot of places that have strange laws, though many are hopefully archaic and rarely enforced. Here’s of the most unusual!
Recklessly biking in Mexico
Bikers may not lift feet from pedals, as it might result in a loss of control. This practical law was created in 1892 as a way to protect riders. However, no hands is still fair game.
Being a bird perch in Venice
A fine of up to $700 is in store for anyone who feeds the pigeons in Venice’s St. Mark’s Square. The city banned the practice, citing the birds as a health hazard, and as bad for the monuments.
Wearing high heels in Greece
Leave your stilettos at home if you’re planning on sightseeing around Greece’s historic cities. High heels are illegal at certain ancient monuments because they can damage them, and because they often threaten preservation efforts.
Running out of gas on the autobahn in Germany
Hitting 100 on the autobahn is a thrilling feeling, but you’d best keep an eye on the road and the other on the needle. Running out of gas on the motorway will lead to fines — basically, you should have known better and planned ahead, like any self-respecting German.
So, to recap:
No Buddha Tattoos or Selfies in Sri Lanka
The mistreatment of Buddhist images and artifacts is a serious offense and tourists have been convicted for this. Photographs are also forbidden in front of the statue of Buddha
Don’t Destroy Currency in Turkey
It is an offense to insult the Turkish nation or the national flag, or to deface or tear up currency. If you are convicted of any of this offenses, you could face a prison sentence of between six months and three years.
No Camouflage Attire In the Caribbean
Many Caribbean countries, such as Barbados, St. Vincent and St. Lucia ban the wearing of camouflage clothing, including by children.
No Gum Chewing in Singapore
Some people regard chewing gum as ill-mannered, but in Singapore, it’s a criminal offense to chew gum unless it’s medicinal.
You Can’t Drink or Smoke In Public In Ukraine
Smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol in Ukraine’s public places, including transport, bus stops, underground crossings, sports and government establishments, playgrounds, and parks is officially banned.
Whistling in Canada
The city of Petrolia in Ontario has a law that limits excessive noise. The rule states that no yelling, shouting, whistling or singing is allowed at any time.