Below, I highlight a series of weird laws travelers need to be aware of when crisscrossing the country and the globe.
MADISON, WISCONSIN, January 2023 — When traveling overseas, there are a lot of considerations regarding informal and formal rules in a country. As a former judge, and now-practicing attorney, I know there are numerous laws that an unwitting traveler could violate overseas and domestically. For a first trip to a new country, it’s always a good idea to review any special considerations in a given country, as social philosophy, religion, and more can impact legal needs.
Thailand has special considerations
Thailand has several unique considerations for visitors, so it’s worth researching requirements before flying into the country. Laws many visitors from other countries would not be aware of include an e-cigarette ban nationwide. Use the extra room in the bag to include more underwear, as the country requires everyone to wear undergarments.
An additional law rooted in tradition may also feel unique to outsiders. The King of Thailand is extremely respected, so it is wrong to deface or insult his images, including those on the country’s currency. Avoid stepping on any money that has fallen on the ground, as it does feature the king’s likeness.
Other items not to pack
Overall, it can be best to limit the packing of any sensitive items, such as tobacco, alcohol, and over-the-counter medications, when traveling to avoid any issues. These items can also be bought at the destination if allowed. However, if traveling with the item is a must, research whether it is OK at the destination beforehand. For example, Bhutan is strictly anti-tobacco and prohibits bringing any tobacco products into the country, while Japan forbids bringing in Codeine, including Codeine, in certain fairly common medicines.
Behavior adjustments
Also, in Japan, the act of dancing is strictly prohibited before midnight. After 12 a.m., it’s perfectly OK to bust a move, but before then, prostitution concerns make it necessary to plan ahead. Many countries have prohibitions on certain behaviors, such as frowning in portions of Italy or spitting in Barcelona. While a trip to jail isn’t likely, fines or being viewed as rude may follow.
Preserving history
At some major tourist destinations, unique policies are in place to protect historical treasures. For example, in Venice, feeding pigeons in St. Mark’s Square is prohibited to limit damage to buildings. Similarly, do not wear high heels in Greece when visiting places like the Acropolis, as heels can damage the old stonework. I know there are many more historical landmarks considering adding this provision, so it would be best to plan footwear ahead and be polite.
Clothing
Clothing is a consideration for climate, but there are also specific requirements for some locations. In Barbados, camouflage is for the army only, and the rule is not limited to adults. Leave the camouflage at home. Some locations also view different swimwear as appropriate. In France, swimming trunks for men are frequently frowned upon and prohibited, with Speedos preferred or required. Body art is also up for regulation, with Buddha tattoos legally prohibited in Sri Lanka.
Domestic concerns
Weird laws aren’t limited to overseas. For United States residents traveling domestically, searching out weird laws in a new area is never a bad idea. Much like Venice, San Francisco limits feeding the pigeons to limit health problems from droppings. I understand that in New York City, horn honking is a fineable offense, and while visitors may still hear plenty of horns while there, no one on vacation wants to be the person who did get a ticket that day.
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