Written by Catherine Simpson

Thinking of travelling overseas? Dreaming of a trip free of fines and possible jail time? You’d hope so.

While some laws around the world may seem a little bizarre, and many don’t even get enforced nowadays, it’s always worth doing your research before your travel so you don’t get caught out with a hefty fine or worse! You can check out the FCO’s country specific advice here, as well as their tips for staying on the right side of the law on your adventures!

But for now, here are some of the wackiest laws to look out for while abroad…

In France…

– It’s illegal to kiss while a train is at the platform – to avoid train delays, make sure you get your kissing done before the train arrives!

– In the village of Lhéraule, it’s the law to uphold a ‘minumum level of politeness’ in the Town Hall. So, don’t forget to learn your bonjours and your mercis before you travel!

In Spain…

– It’s illegal to go topless in Palma de Mallorca. Anyone (male or female) who neglects to wear a shirt in the streets could be slapped with a 600 euro fine! You’re safe if you stick to the beaches though.

– It’s illegal to drive in flip flops, or any shoes deemed ‘incomplete’. And while we’re on the subject…

– It’s illegal to drive with food shopping in a convertible car (Click here for more tips on driving abroad!).

In Italy…

– It’s illegal to feed the birds in Venice. Anyone who feeds the birds in St. Mark’s Square could receive a 700 euro fine, for attracting birds that are considered a health hazard and bad for the monuments.

In Portugal…

– It’s illegal to pee in the sea (plus it’s just a bit gross).

In Germany…

– It’s illegal to run out of petrol on the motorway, with an 80 euro fine for anyone who fails to live up to German standards of efficiency and plan a full tank in advance.

In Greece…

– It’s illegal to wear high heels at certain ancient monuments, as they can cause damage.

In Mexico…

– It’s illegal to ride a bike ‘recklessly’. Lifting your feet from the pedals is a no no!

In Brazil…

– It’s illegal for women to go topless on the beach, as it’s considered indecent exposure.

– It’s illegal to sell watermelons in Rio Claro. Sorry to crush your fruit-selling dreams.

In the United States…

– In Iowa, it’s illegal for a moustachioed man to kiss a woman in public.

– In Honolulu, Hawaii, it’s illegal to sing loudly after the sun has set.

In Singapore…

– It’s illegal to sell or chew non-medical chewing gum. This offence could land you with a fine of up to $2000 and being forced to clean a public area for the day (wearing a sign reading “I’m a litterer” if it’s your third offence!).

In Japan…

– It’s illegal to be obese.

In Australia…

– It’s illegal to change a light bulb unless you’re a licensed electrician.

– It’s illegal to get someone to drunk at the pub.

In Thailand…

– It’s illegal to step on money.

– It’s illegal to leave your house if you’re not wearing underwear – although I’m not sure it specifies where on your body you have to wear them…

In Switzerland…

– It’s illegal to flush the toilet after 10pm in an apartment building, as it’s considered noise pollution.

– It’s illegal to go hiking naked. Please don’t do it.

All joking aside, being imprisoned in a foreign jail far from home is a serious matter. Conditions can be life threatening, with some prisons not even supplying the basic necessities to survive. Prisoners Abroad is there to support prisoners and their families through this ordeal by providing essential needs like food, water and emotional support.

Remember to be #TravelAware