When we book a last minute holiday we don’t have time to do any extensive research. The first thing in our minds is packing, remembering the passport and checking the weather report. Stop! What we really should be doing is checking the laws of the country we have chosen to visit. Yes, really!
We’ll start with one that affects the whole world especially the large tourist based cities.
1) It is illegal to feed the pigeons in San Francisco.
The pesky birds are accused of spreading diseases and causing building damage within the city. This law is so serious that anyone caught feeding them will be reported to the San Francisco police department and also incur a hefty fine for their troubles.
Canadians are known for their friendly and approachable manner but do not try to pay for something with loose change. They DO NOT like it.
2) You cannot pay in excessive small change in Canada.
Stores can legally refuse a purchase if someone is to take out their purse or wallet and try to pay with more than 25 one cent coins in one transaction.
Singapore is a country that enforces a lot of rules and laws. People with bad breath might want to avoid visiting there after reading this rule.
3) No chewing gum in public in Singapore.
A matter of fact, it is forbidden to own chewing gum at all in the country (unless otherwise given to you by a Doctor for e.g Nicotine gum). If you are a massive rebel and decide to venture out chewing gum and proceed to spit it out on the street, a nice little $500 fine will be waiting for you.
This next law is more to do with people trying to get the Japanese Government to clamp down on an unhealthy lifestyle in the country.
4) In Japan, it is illegal to be overweight
For men and women over 40 it is illegal to have a waist size of more than 32 or 36 inches respectively. A bit strange though don’t you think considering this is the country most famous for Sumo wrestling…
Finally, Denmark have topped the list for the craziest law enforced in their country. But I am definitely going to visit here soon after discovering this one!
5) In Denmark, you do not need to pay for a meal unless you are completely full.
Would you just never pay for anything ever again after reading this?
See, all rules don’t have to be bad!
This is definitely my favourite!