Every country is different with different people, cultures, food, politics, religion, language, and laws. It is crucial for us to find out the basic laws in the foreign country before we plan a trip. Thus, let us discover the unusual laws around the world today.
1. No Chewing Gum in Singapore
The laws exist to prevent the people from littering the used gums that caused the Mass Rapid Transit system (MRT) from breaking down.
Before the laws are enforced, there are many cases where the people stuck chewing gums on the door sensor of MRT which causes the door to malfunction and eventually lead to disruptions of the public transport.
The Housing and Development Board has reported in spending $150,000 a year to clean up the gum litter. Thus, Singapore banned all gum substances in 1992.
The only exceptions are nicotine and dental gums which are therapeutic for the smokers. Keep in mind not to bring any chewing gums before you visit Singapore!
2. Weirdest Driving Law- No Dirty Car In Russia
With a population of over a million people, there are going to be some dirty cars moving around in the country.
This law exists to ensure that your car has a clean and visible number plate. A fine to 2000 rubles (30 EUR) can be issued to the dirty car owners.
3. Feeding Pigeons in St. Mark’s Square in Venice Is Illegal
The law has been implemented since 2008 in an effort to protect the UNESCO status city. The pigeons have been blamed for destroying the historical monument and buildings as their feces landed on the facades and monuments.
Besides, they are the potential to carry diseases and spread them to humans. The fine for feeding pigeons in the area can be up to $700.
4. “Fat Tax” On Junk Food In Kerala, India
Kerala is the first state in India to have a 14.5% tax on burgers, pizza, donuts, and other fast food or fatty dishes that are served in branded restaurants.
The fat tax is used to raise awareness of the public for their food choices, creating a healthier population, and reduce the rate of obesity in the state.
5. Patriotic Canadian Radio Stations
In Canada, all radio stations must ensure at least 35% of the music they aired every week, between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday, is a Canadian singer. The government believes that this act is able to preserve their culture and identity as well as giving more opportunity for local talents to shine.
6. Do Not Hike Naked in Switzerland
After a naked German walked past a lovely family which are having a picnic in the Alps in 2009, the Swiss has banned the act of hiking in nude.
There was a time where the Swiss and Germans made naked hiking a trend more than 10 years ago. Thus the Swiss parliament has passed the law to make sure their people are hiking in proper attire.
7. No High Heels in Acropolis
Greece has banned high heels at Acropolis since 2009 to protect Parthenon. High heels which have a sharp end may cause damage to 2500 years old ancient monuments and ruined their preservation efforts.
So, leave your high heels at home and be join the effort in protecting the historical sites with respect.
8. Try to Avoid Winnie the Pooh T-Shirt in Poland
Winnie the Pooh is banned from a Polish playground and schools due to its “dubious sexuality, inappropriately dressed and half-naked”. One of the councilors even describes the bear as “wholly inappropriate for children”.
Therefore, it is best to avoid having a large Winnie the Pooh appearing in front of your T-shirt while you visit the country.
9. No Selfies or Tattoos With Buddha in Sri Lanka
When we take a selfie with Buddha, we will turn our back on the Buddha, make sure that we look great with the Buddha before pressing the capture button?
Oh no, turning our back to Buddha is a sign of disrespect of God in Sri Lanka.
In addition, sometimes there are bans for taking photos for certain Buddhas. There are cases where the travelers have been suspended in jails in Sri Lanka because their photos showing them posing with Buddha statues and pretending to kiss one of them.
Be a good tourist, be respectful, polite, and comply with their basic rules when you visit a foreign country.
Cover Photo: switzerland.photo's || srilanka_tourism
