Travelling can be an amazing experience unless you run into the law in the country you are visiting. Many places have unexpected and surprising laws that could result in hefty fines or legal trouble if you break them, even unknowingly. Today, we are diving into seven laws around the world that are not widely known and could catch you off guard on your next trip.
1. Feeding Pigeons is Illegal in Venice, Italy
While you might be able to throw some crumbs to the pigeons in your home town, you cannot bring that practice to Venice. Feeding pigeons in public areas is strictly prohibited because the massive population has damaged historical monuments. Since bird droppings on marble and stone cause erosion over time, the ban was enacted as a solution to protect Venice’s historic landmarks. Breaking this law can result in a fine of up to €700 (about $800 US).
2. Wearing High Heels in Ancient Sites in Greece
If you are visiting Greece, ensure to leave your high heels in your hotel room because it is forbidden to wear high heels at ancient sites. At historical monuments, such as the Acropolis, visitors are not allowed to wear high-heeled shoes because high heels can chip away the stones and surfaces that have already withstood thousands of years. This law serves to preserve these sites, so if you are caught in stilettos, you can be fined.
3. Using Google Maps in South Korea’s Restricted Zones
In some parts of South Korea, it is against the law to use Google Maps and other digital mapping services that show precise details due to national security concerns. There are strict security measures regarding the types of maps and GPS navigation systems allowed, especially near military installations and border zones. Tourists who visit these areas must be careful when using their phones to avoid being fined.
4. Photographing government buildings in Saudi Arabia and the UAE
Taking pictures to capture all you see and experience is a big part of travelling. Surprisingly, you are not allowed to photograph various places in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, so you should avoid doing so. Snapping pictures of government buildings, palaces, military sites, and certain public places can lead to severe penalties. Even worse, you can be arrested and locked up for not being able to resist the beauty and capturing the moment on your camera. Although this law might sound strange, it was enacted to protect state security, so it’s best to never break it.
5. Eating or Drinking on Public Transport in Singapore
While it may seem normal to have a snack or drink on public transportation at various places, It is certainly not allowed in Singapore, which is renowned for its cleanliness. Breaking this law can result in a fine of up to SGD 500 (about $370 US). If you are caught drinking water or chewing gum, you can also be hit with a penalty. Neither locals nor tourists can get away with breaking this law if caught, so it is best to wait until you have exited the public transportation before consuming anything.
6. Running Out of Gas on the Autobahn in Germany
Germany’s Autobahn is renowned for not having speed limits in certain sections. What is strange is that there is a strict rule about having adequate fuel in your tank.
The Autobahn in Germany is a high-speed, limited-access highway. It is famous for sections without speed limits, but it also has strict rules. Among these rules is ensuring you have adequate gas because stopping for any avoidable reason is illegal. Due to the fact that other vehicles are travelling at high speed, stopping is very dangerous. You could be slapped with fines that range from €30 to €70 (about $35 to 80 US).
7. Flushing the Toilet at Night in Switzerland
There are strict noise regulations in Switzerland, especially in residential buildings. Such regulations include the prohibition of flushing the toilet anytime after 10:00 p.m. in some apartments and homes. Although this is not technically a law, this rule was put in place in order to respect neighbours’s peace by maintaining quiet hours. While you might not be fined for violating this rule, it could lead to complaints or disputes with neighbours.