18 Strange Laws from Around the World That Are Still Enforced
18 Strange Laws from Around the World That Are Still Enforced
Exploring different countries can be a fun experience, but it also means you might come across some unusual laws that are strictly enforced. From banning chewing gum to prohibiting high heels at historical sites, countries have unique rules that may surprise you. Here’s a look at some of these strange laws from around the world.
1. Singapore – No Chewing Gum
In Singapore, you won’t find gum in stores as easily as you might elsewhere. The sale and import of chewing gum have strict controls here. This rule was put in place to keep public spaces clean and avoid the maintenance issues that discarded gum causes in public places, like the subway.
2. Venice, Italy – No Feeding Pigeons
If you visit Venice, don’t feed the pigeons! The city has a rule against feeding these birds to maintain cleanliness and protect the historic architecture from damage. Pigeon droppings can degrade building materials, so the city takes this law seriously to preserve its beauty and historical integrity.
3. Saudi Arabia – No Valentine’s Day
Saudi Arabia enforces a ban on the sale of all Valentine’s Day items. This includes flowers, gifts, and any red items typically associated with the holiday. The ban is in place because the holiday is seen as un-Islamic and promotes values that conflict with Islamic traditions.
4. Switzerland – No Flushing After 10 PM in Apartments
If you’re staying in an apartment in Switzerland, remember not to flush the toilet after 10 PM. This rule is enforced to prevent noise that could disturb neighbors during the night. It’s part of a broader effort to maintain peace and quiet in residential areas after hours.
5. Greece – No High Heels at Ancient Sites
While visiting Greece’s ancient sites, leave your high heels behind. The country prohibits wearing high heels at these locations to protect the old stones from damage. High heels can put undue pressure on the fragile surfaces, leading to erosion and degradation of historically significant sites.
6. Canada – No Removing Bandages in Public
In Canada, it’s considered unsanitary to remove bandages in public. This law is in place to prevent the spread of germs and keep public spaces clean. The idea is to avoid exposing others to potential biohazards in places like parks, restaurants, or buses.
7. France – No Kissing on Train Platforms
Back in 1910, France passed a law banning kissing on train platforms. This rule was created to prevent delays in train schedules caused by the lengthy farewells. It’s an interesting piece of history that reflects the efficiency-focused mindset typical of the French rail system.
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8. Spain – No Driving Barefoot
In Spain, driving barefoot or while wearing flip-flops or sandals without straps is considered unsafe and is therefore illegal. This law helps ensure that drivers have adequate control over their vehicles, as improper footwear can slip off or get stuck under the pedals, leading to dangerous situations.
9. Thailand – No Stepping on Currency
In Thailand, it is illegal to step on money. This law exists because currency in Thailand bears the image of the king, and stepping on it is seen as disrespectful to the monarchy. High respect for the royal family is deeply ingrained in Thai culture, making this law significant.
10. Australia – No Disturbing Pigeons
Some cities in Australia have specific laws protecting pigeons. Disturbing these birds is prohibited as part of broader efforts to manage wildlife and maintain harmony between urban environments and nature. So, if you’re visiting Australia, be mindful of the pigeons and other wildlife around you.
11. Philippines – No Late-Night Karaoke
In the Philippines, singing karaoke late at night can get you in trouble because of curfew laws aimed at preventing noise. These laws are particularly strict in residential areas to ensure that everyone can get a good night’s sleep without being disturbed by late-night singing sessions.
12. Bhutan – No Plastic Bags
Bhutan has a nationwide ban on plastic bags to protect its environment. This small Himalayan kingdom is known for its strong commitment to preserving nature and promoting sustainability. The ban on plastic bags is just one of many measures Bhutan has implemented to keep its environment clean and green.
13. Germany – No Pillow as a Weapon
In Germany, it’s illegal to use a pillow as a weapon. A pillow fight isn’t just fun and games; in legal terms, pillows can be considered passive weapons. This might sound funny, but it’s taken seriously under the law, which aims to prevent harm, however unconventional the method might be.
14. UK – No Dying in Parliament
It’s actually illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament in the UK. This law is in place because anyone who dies in Parliament is technically entitled to a state funeral. This rule was made to avoid the complexities and costs associated with such an event.
15. Denmark – No Starting a Car While Someone is Underneath It
Denmark prioritizes safety with a law that prohibits starting a car while someone is underneath it. This might seem obvious for safety reasons, but having a specific law helps prevent careless or accidental injuries in situations involving vehicle maintenance or repair.
16. USA, Alabama – No Ice Cream Cones in Back Pockets
In Alabama, there’s an old law that still exists on the books that makes it illegal to carry ice cream cones in your back pocket. This law was originally intended to prevent people from stealing horses. Thieves would put ice cream in their pocket to lure a horse away without appearing to steal it.
17. New Zealand – No Flying With a Rooster in a Hot Air Balloon
New Zealand has a particularly unique regulation: it’s illegal to fly with a rooster in a hot air balloon. While it’s unclear how often this situation occurred for it to become law, it’s a good example of the quirky, specific rules that can be found in legal books around the world.
18. Iceland – No Keeping Dogs in Reykjavik
Until recently, it was illegal to keep dogs as pets in Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik. The law was intended to keep the streets clean and prevent disturbances. However, attitudes towards pet ownership have changed, and the law has been relaxed to allow dogs under certain conditions.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.