Traveling the world? Just don’t bring your gum, wear high heels near ruins, or feed pigeons wearing flip-flops at night. Yes, these are actual laws. Some countries take cleanliness, quiet nights, and sacred statues very seriously. From outlawing Winnie the Pooh (poor guy never stood a chance) to banning selfies with Buddha, these are the laws you never thought you’d need to Google before a trip.
No chewing gum in SingaporeSingapore is squeaky clean, and a part of the reason is a ban on chewing gum. Even selling chewing gum here can send you to jail. Exceptions exist only for therapeutic gums, but any fruity or minty bubblegum is a huge no; better leave it at home.
No feeding pigeons in Venice, Italy
Feeding pigeons in Venice’s famous St. Mark’s Square is banned. This may sound harmless to you, but it is a very serious offense there. The city imposed this law to protect the monuments that have historical importance. If you are caught doing this, fines can go up to €700.
Read more: 8 weekend getaways under 300 km from Bengaluru
Keep your shirt on in BarcelonaStrolling around shirtless on beaches might be okay, but not on the streets. Walking around in swimwear on the sand can lead to fines. This is all about respecting the city’s dress code.
No high heels at ancient sites in Greece
Wearing high heels at historic monuments is banned because the pointy heels can damage ancient stonework. So if you are planning to visit Greece, pack some comfy flats instead of heels.
No selfies with Buddha in Sri LankaTaking selfies with your back turned is extremely disrespectful in Sri Lanka; it can lead to fines, arrest, or even deportation. Always face the statue while photographing it.
No running out of gas on the autobahn in Germany
While Germany’s autobahn lets you drive at thrilling speeds, it is considered illegal to stop unnecessarily. Drivers are expected to proceed ahead; a careless tank could cost you a hefty fine.
No Winnie the Pooh in Poland’s playgroundsWinnie the Pooh is banned in Polish towns because he does not wear pants. Authorities felt the bear’s lack of proper attire made him an inappropriate role model for children.
Read more: Jeep, canoe, elephant — or foot? India’s wildest safari options
Flush after use in Singapore's public toilets
True, it is illegal not to flush public toilets after use in Singapore. Heavy fines can be imposed for neglecting this.
No shoes in public parks in South Korea
It is forbidden to wear shoes on the grass or when one goes to worship in some South Korean public parks and temples. Because it is rude to wear shoes where individuals sit or meditate, visitors are required to remove their shoes. Cleanliness and respect are assured by this law.
No ice cream in Florence, Italy (after 10 PM)
In the charming city of Florence, eating ice cream after 10 PM is illegal—at least in some areas of the city near the renowned historical center. The law was passed to curb noise and traffic congestion, especially in tourist spots. So, if late-night gelato cravings strike you, better get it earlier!
No chewing gum in SingaporeSingapore is squeaky clean, and a part of the reason is a ban on chewing gum. Even selling chewing gum here can send you to jail. Exceptions exist only for therapeutic gums, but any fruity or minty bubblegum is a huge no; better leave it at home.
No feeding pigeons in Venice, Italy
Feeding pigeons in Venice’s famous St. Mark’s Square is banned. This may sound harmless to you, but it is a very serious offense there. The city imposed this law to protect the monuments that have historical importance. If you are caught doing this, fines can go up to €700.
Read more: 8 weekend getaways under 300 km from Bengaluru
Keep your shirt on in BarcelonaStrolling around shirtless on beaches might be okay, but not on the streets. Walking around in swimwear on the sand can lead to fines. This is all about respecting the city’s dress code.
No high heels at ancient sites in Greece
Wearing high heels at historic monuments is banned because the pointy heels can damage ancient stonework. So if you are planning to visit Greece, pack some comfy flats instead of heels.
No selfies with Buddha in Sri LankaTaking selfies with your back turned is extremely disrespectful in Sri Lanka; it can lead to fines, arrest, or even deportation. Always face the statue while photographing it.
No running out of gas on the autobahn in Germany
While Germany’s autobahn lets you drive at thrilling speeds, it is considered illegal to stop unnecessarily. Drivers are expected to proceed ahead; a careless tank could cost you a hefty fine.
No Winnie the Pooh in Poland’s playgroundsWinnie the Pooh is banned in Polish towns because he does not wear pants. Authorities felt the bear’s lack of proper attire made him an inappropriate role model for children.
Read more: Jeep, canoe, elephant — or foot? India’s wildest safari options
Flush after use in Singapore's public toilets
True, it is illegal not to flush public toilets after use in Singapore. Heavy fines can be imposed for neglecting this.
No shoes in public parks in South Korea
It is forbidden to wear shoes on the grass or when one goes to worship in some South Korean public parks and temples. Because it is rude to wear shoes where individuals sit or meditate, visitors are required to remove their shoes. Cleanliness and respect are assured by this law.
No ice cream in Florence, Italy (after 10 PM)
In the charming city of Florence, eating ice cream after 10 PM is illegal—at least in some areas of the city near the renowned historical center. The law was passed to curb noise and traffic congestion, especially in tourist spots. So, if late-night gelato cravings strike you, better get it earlier!
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