Holiday season is just around the corner with lots of us looking forward to some well deserved time off in the sun.
Soaking up the rays, seeing the sights and experiencing different cultures is something millions each year enjoy. However, it is worth noting that in some countries there are certain rules that may see you unintentionally break the law during your visit.
There are a number of peculiar laws across a popular spots across the globe that could catch you out when holidaying with your friends or family. For example, do you know your footwear choice could see you breaking the law? Or that stepping on money could land you in trouble in some parts of the world?
Here are some of the most bizarre laws in operation in popular holiday spots, according to StressFreeCarRental.com.
Spain, Malaga - having blow-up dolls. n
Malaga is a hugely popular party resort know for its buzzing nightlife. However, officials and locals have long expressed their distaste over the behaviour of tourists.
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.
Recently, the local government announced that it would be forbidden to walk or stand on the streets in only underwear or dressing in clothes or accessories representing genitals. This includes dolls or elements of sexual nature.
The new rule, approved this year, means tourists should stay clear of any funny sex accessories heading to the South of Spain.
Greece, Acropolis of 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 rule is to preserve the ancient stones and their history across the iconic sites. Introduced in 2009, the rule is in place to prevent sharp soled shoes damaging toe ruins which are natural treasures.
Instead, visitors should wear soft-soled shoes so best pack a pair of flats if you are heading to any of the historic spots.
Thailand- standing on money
In Thailand, stepping on the country's currency is actually crime, even if done by accident.
Breaking this rule could see tourists face a hefty jail sentence with the act seen as disrespectful to the king as Thai notes and coins contain an image of his face.
In Thailand, they see feet as the dirtiest part of the body, with the crime punishable with up to 15 years of imprisonment.
Italy, Amalfi Coast- taking a selfie
As of Easter weekend, red zones were introduced in Positano, Amalfi Coast. The Major of the famous town introduced the rule to stop tourists from lingering in frequented spots to help prevent human traffic jams which are common in peak season.
Stopping to take selfie and therefore holding others up could result in a €275 fine with the rules in place between 10:30 am and 6 pm, 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.
People visiting from across the world, including us Scots, may simply cross the road whenever they reckon it is safe to do so. However, this could result in breaking the law which could see you ticketed by police.
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
You could actually be handed a hefty fine for swearing in a public area in Australia.
Using foul language is an offence, with fines as high as $660 in New South Wales and $500 in Western Australia. The maximum penalty for foul language in South Australia is harsher at a whooping 1250 dollars of three months imprisonment.
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.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife -feeding stray animals
The popular holiday location has a number of rules which means feeding stray animals could actually see you breaking a law.
The rules are in place to preserve a better and cleaner environment, with fines given out for feeding the likes of pigeons, cats and dogs.
Minor breaches will see tourists slapped with a 750 euro fine, while incidents deemed more serious will see tourists fined an eye-watering 3,000 euros.
France - kissing at train stations
Yep, you read that right. French railways became so tired of delays due to farewell kisses that they introduced a law to prohibit it.
The law has actually been in place since 1910 in a bid to avoid costly delayed and an overcrowded train station.
However, there is no formal penalty for the 'crime' today.
A spokesperson for StressFreeCarRental.com said: “Tourists should always research before jetting off on vacation so they don’t cut into their holiday budget by unknowingly breaking the law.
“Although some laws may not seem to make sense, holidaymakers must respect them else they could be fined or even locked up.
“Most tourists will not be intentionally setting out to break laws but will be unknowingly caught by unusual foreign rules they have never heard of before.
“Being fined for wearing high heels may seem far-fetched and downright silly, but when travelling overseas, people must accept that different cultures and opinions lead to different law-making and something legal at home could be a huge no-no abroad.”
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