Last week, a Brit was jailed for posing naked on a sacred mountain in Malaysia. It wasn’t that long ago when a couple kissing publicly in Dubai faced a similar fate. Indeed, if you even swear on WhatsApp while in the Emirates, you could be fined £45,000. And if you are contemplating debauched drunken behaviour in Magaluf this summer, you may end up forking out €3000 for the privilege.
The message is loud and clear. Your behaviour could cost you more than you bargained for, so before heading off, it’s worth paying heed to etiquette and the culture of the place you are visiting if you want to stay out of trouble while abroad.
For some travellers, the legal risks don’t stop at fines or jail time abroad. Drug-related laws, in particular, can have longer-term consequences that follow you home. In countries where cannabis is treated strictly, even lawful use elsewhere may expose individuals to penalties or records that later intersect with employment screening policies. This is especially relevant for professionals concerned about medical marijuana and work drug tests, where international travel, differing drug classifications, and workplace testing rules can combine in unexpected ways.”
France
You are legally bound to drive with a breathalyser in the car and it is illegal to carry any device that can detect speed cameras, like say a sat nav. Incidentally, if you happen to be in Paris at night, you may find the Eiffel Tower lights beautiful, but it is illegal to capture them photographically.
Belgium
The futuristic-looking Atomium, a monument comprising five spheres over eight levels, was built for the World Fair in Brussels in 1958. It is probably one of the most visited attractions in Belgium and the symbol of Europe’s capital, yet, as it is a protected image, you will have to keep your camera under wraps.
Spain
Tourists who wander the streets of Barcelona clad only in their swimming costumes face fines of £265. Authorities have banned bikini wearers from areas away from the city’s beaches. In Majorca, holidaymakers who stray from the beaches in swimwear or Speedos face £500 fines. The laws are part of Palma City Council’s Ordenanza Civica, otherwise known as the Good Citizen Plan.
Greece
It is illegal to take pictures of government buildings, churches and even aircraft. Cast your mind back to 2001 when 12 plane-spotters were jailed for espionage after allegedly taking photos of a military air base. Also, be aware that indecent behaviour, including mooning or wearing offensive fancy dress costumes, could be deemed to be against decency laws. Incidentally, the drug Codeine is classified as an illegal drug in Greece.
Cyprus
You are not allowed to honk your horn when near to a hospital.
Singapore
Since 1992 it is illegal to chew gum in public. The only exception is nicotine gum which is only available on prescription. You may also find yourself in trouble if you publicly display national flags or emblems.
Thailand
It is illegal to criticise the King or any member of the royal family – even deceased monarchs. The crime is known as Lèse Majesté and is punishable by a prison sentence of three to 15 years, or longer.
Jamaica
It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing on this Caribbean island.
Japan
In the land that brought us sumo wrestling, you are forbidden to be fat. The law states that men over 40 should not have a waist measuring more than 80cm and women over 90cm.
Read also: Things NOT TO DO when travelling abroad
Are you aware of any other laws one should watch out for when travelling? Leave a comment!
Image credit: Houston DWI Attorney
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