Every country has its own set of laws and rules that everyone, residents and tourists alike, must follow. These laws often reflect local beliefs, culture, and values. Some laws are designed to maintain order, while others aim to promote a better quality of life.
Beyond the usual regulations, some countries enforce laws that might seem downright bizarre to outsiders. What’s normal in one place could be baffling in another. Here are 10 surprising laws from around the world that will leave you scratching your head.
1. No pinball for minors
Certaintly a buzz-kill for many, in South Carolina, anyone under 18 isn’t just discouraged—they’re outright banned from playing or even being near a pinball machine.
2. Step aside from the pigeons
Feeding birds might be a popular pastime elsewhere, but in Venice, it’s a big no-no. Tourists are strictly forbidden from feeding pigeons. Due to the risk of disease the birds carry, tourists are discouraged from engaging with them lest they be trapped in a flock of pigeons!
3. No to chewing gum
Not being able to chew gum has got to be one of the most agitating and futile enforcement in the eyes of many. Singapore, however, is clear on what they want and what they don’t. While all the mint is welcome, even smuggling gum, let alone chewing is highly prohibited in the country.
4. Out with the soft drugs
Soft drugs like marijuana and hash are not allowed to be consumed in the Netherlands. There is a strict set of policies concerning the same. The only exception is the popular Amsterdam where the government welcomes tourists to have a smoke or two at certain shops and outlets.
5. Consuming food around tourist sites and landmarks
Rome is known for its food but at the same time for its heritage too. This is why the rules clearly state that tourists or others are not to be seen snacking anywhere near cultural, architectural, or other landmark areas. The rule was enforced to maintain the popular space and give them due respect.
6. Spit-stop
Another rule concerned with hygiene and respect is found at Daytona Beach in Florida. People are warned against spitting in public, be it on a footpath, lane, or any area. Maximum hygiene is what people aim for and avoiding spitting is one good way to kickstart.
7. Stepping on currency
Be sure to get stares and more if you ever so mistakenly step on currency in Thailand. The money bearing the picture of the King is always to be elevated and respected and stepping or mishandling it is frowned upon in the country.
8. Stilettos are a no
Speaking of stepping, Greece is clear on its verdict about stiletto heels. The country compares the latter to that of walking elephants. The idea is that the popular shoe causes much pressure to fall while walking thus disrupting and damaging the archaeological sites. Hence, sorry ladies, but it’s gonna be a no.
9. No favoring the pennies
Canada is clear that you cannot overuse pennies. Whether you have other forms of currency and high denominations available is not so much a problem as using over 25 pennies in a transaction is. Might wanna cut down on the pennies while converting, tourists!
10. Marriage first, hotel rooms later
Dubai is big on allotting rooms to its guests. If you’re not married or closely related, don’t even bother trying to ask for a room to live in together. The concepts of live-in, significant other and all other titles are as good as null and void in the UAE.
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