There’s plenty of things to consider when visiting somewhere new – from the language, different cuisine, to cultural norms.
Rules and laws vary across countries, too, and some may seem surprising to foreigners.
Dubai has strict regulations around government buildings, while in France, drivers should be aware of a certain type of footwear when driving.
In Venice, pigeons are a no-go for feeding, and in Singapore, lovers of chewing gum might struggle.
Read on below to find out all the surprisingly illegal things around the world.
Dubai
In the United Arab Emirates, people are prohibited taking photographs of government buildings.
The UK Foreign Office warns: ‘It is illegal to take photos of some government buildings and military installations.
‘Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood, particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports.’
In the United Arab Emirates, people are prohibited taking photographs of government buildings
Greece
A popular destination for its sandy beaches, white buildings and delicious cuisine.
But tourists visiting Greece should be mindful of what shoes they wear when sightseeing historic structures.
High heels have been banned from landmarks in Athens, including the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre, since 2009.
Anyone not following the rule could be hit with a €900 fine, according to the The Express.
Italy
While in Venice, visitors may be enamoured by the many characterful pigeons, but they are prohibited from feeding them.
It’s been illegal to do so since 2008, when the sale and distribution of grain to feed pigeons was banned.
At the time, according to Reuters, the pesky birds were pecking at marble statues in the cities looking for crumbs.
High heels have been banned from landmarks in Athens including the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre since 2009
While in Venice, Italy, visitors may be enamoured by the many characterful pigeons, but they are prohibited from feeding them
France
Any holidaymakers driving through France should be careful of their footwear choice.
Drivers are prohibited from wearing ‘unsuitable footwear’ according to Travel And Tour World.
Officers often check those in popular holiday hotspots for the mistake.
Sweden
Previously in Sweden, venues including nightclubs and bars needed a permit for customers to be allowed to legally dance.
The Swedish government said in 2023 it intended to scrap the 67-year-old law that required owners of night clubs and bars to obtain a license for dancing.
Instead, it was proposed that they would have to register with the police, according to AP.
Previously in Sweden, venues including nightclubs and bars needed a permit for customers to be allowed to legally dance
Sri Lanka
Many tourists enjoy taking photographs during their holidays as keepsakes.
However, it is prohibited to take pictures with Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.
The UK Foreign Office notes: ‘Do not pose for photographs standing in front of a statue of Buddha.’
Singapore
Though perfectly acceptable to consume in the UK, chewing gum is restricted in Singapore.
According to the Economic Times, it is illegal to import, sell or carry gum in the country. Those doing so need a medical prescription, and only dental gum is allowed.
The law was made in an attempt to help keep the country clean, and stop damage to pavements.
Egypt
While in Egypt, it is prohibited to use drones without official permission.
The Foreign Office warns against using the tech and says, ‘It is illegal to use radio-controlled helicopters or drones to take photos near sensitive sites.
‘Do not import, use or produce drones in Egypt unless the Egyptian Ministry of Defence gives you permission beforehand.
‘Anyone who uses or imports drones without permission could get a prison sentence of up to 7 years or a fine of 5,000 to 50,000 Egyptian pounds.’
Though perfectly acceptable to consume in the UK, chewing gum is quite restricted in Singapore
While in Egypt, it is prohibited to use drones without official permission
Maldives
Holidaymakers should be mindful when relaxing in public beaches and local areas of what swimwear they’re wearing.
The Foreign Office advises: ‘You should be sensitive to local dress standards when outside holiday resorts, including on beaches used by locals.’
They add that men and women should ‘have arms and upper legs covered when bathing’.
‘Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands.’
While some beaches on private resorts are more relaxed with the rules and allow bikinis and other swimwear, according to Explore.
This article was originally published by a www.dailymail.co.uk . Read the Original article here. .