The bizarre laws in popular tourist destinations that could get you a huge fine
WHEN going abroad, it’s always important to be respectful of any local customs and traditions to avoid annoying or upsetting anyone.
However, there are plenty of strange laws in other countries, that are so odd, they could catch out even the most experienced traveller.
Seemingly harmless acts, like wearing high heels or stepping on money, are illegal in some parts of the world, so it’s important to learn about these rules before jetting off.
Holiday car rental company Stress Free Car Rental have put together a handy list of bizarre laws that Brits could fall afoul of, risking either a hefty fine or a lengthy jail sentence.
Spain, Malaga – having blow-up dolls
The popular party resort, Malaga, is known for its buzzing nightlife, but officials and locals have long expressed their distaste over the behaviour of the tourists it attracts.
Those heading over for a raunchy holiday have been warned to leave their rude inflatables and costumes at home or risk a fine of €750 (£663).
The local government recently announced that it would be forbidden to walk or remain in the streets only in underwear or with dolls or elements of a sexual nature in a significant crackdown against stag and hen dos.
Greece, Athens – wearing high heels
In Greece, by law, it is forbidden to wear high heels to lots of famous tourist attractions like the Acropolis and the Epidarus Theatre in the Peloponnese region.
This is to preserve the history and ancient stone ruins of iconic sites.
The ban, introduced in 2009, was put in place because the sharp-soled shoes were causing damage to the national treasures.
Visitors to the site should wear soft-soled shoes when visiting, so pack flats if heading to the Acropolis of Athens or risk a significant fine.
Thailand – standing on money
Stepping on Thai currency is a crime; even accidentally standing on Thai money could get tourists a hefty jail sentence.
The act is seen as disrespectful to the king because Thai notes and coins contain an image of his face.
In Thailand, they see feet as the dirtiest part of the body, so under crimes violating majesty, the act is punishable with up to 15 years of imprisonment.
Italy – taking a selfie
The Mayor of Positano, a famous town on the Amalfi Coast, has introduced red zones as of Easter weekend, prohibiting tourists from lingering in well-frequented spots.
To stop human traffic jams, common in the peak season, tourists caught standing for too long to take pictures of the scenery will be fined €275 (£243), although the act of taking pictures isn’t banned.
Luckily, the rules are only in place between 10:30am and 6pm, so they lift in time to catch the stunning sunsets.
USA, New York – jaywalking
Jaywalking is walking in the street or road unlawfully, without regard for approaching traffic, which is illegal in New York.
Tourists from abroad who cross the road whenever they deem it safe often unknowingly break these laws and are issued fines and tickets by police officers.
The most common violation among pedestrians is failing to give the right of way to vehicles, walking against the traffic and not obeying the pedestrian control signs.
Australia – swearing
Swearing in public places in Australia is illegal, and if caught using foul language, offenders could be given a hefty fine.
Every year in Australia, there are thousands of offensive language incidents, and thousands of dollars are taken in fines.
The maximum penalty for using foul language in public in New South Wales and Western Australia is $660 (£350) and $500 (£265).
Elsewhere the use of foul language in South Australia is dealt with much more severely, with a fine of $1250 (£663), or even three months imprisonment.
UK – being drunk in a pub
Shockingly, it is technically against the law to get drunk at a pub in the UK.
The Metropolitan Act of 1839 says it’s against the rule for “the keeper of a public house to permit drunkenness on-premises.”
Heading to the pub and having one too many could leave pub-goers with a £200 fine if found to be intoxicated, although it’s very unlikeyl to be enforced.
Dubai – public displays of affection
PDA, including kissing, hugging, and holding hands, is illegal in Dubai, and those found to be breaking the law could be imprisoned or deported.
Many foreigners have suffered the consequences of not following this rule, so couples should be extra careful when visiting the country.
Tenerife, Spain – feeding stray animals
This popular getaway location has introduced new rules prohibiting feeding stray animals under plans to preserve a better and cleaner environment.
The new law means tourists can be fined for feeding stray and wild animals, such as pigeons, cats and dogs, because it is seen to be contributing to littering.
Minor breaches will see tourists slapped with a €750 (£663) fine, while incidents deemed more serious could see tourists fined an eye-watering €3,000 (£2,650).
France – kissing at train stations
The French railways became tired of the delays that farewell kisses were causing on the platform, which led to a law prohibiting smooching when the train was at the station.
The law has been in place since 1910 to avoid costly delays and overcrowded train stations, however there is no formal penalty today.
Meanwhile, this little-known Spanish law that saves Brits money is being ignored in 99 per cent of holiday resorts
And you could easily break these five laws while on holiday.