Not knowing the laws of a foreign country can get travelers into trouble. While some laws may be obvious, not everything is. Some countries have laws that may seem a bit strange, but disobeying them can lead to fines or jail time.
GlobalVisas.com compiled a list of the top 10 unusual foreign laws. It isn't clear how the laws are enforced or what the punishment is, but it's better to be on the safe side and not break them.
1. Venice, Italy: Feeding the pigeons in St. Mark's Square is illegal since 2008. Seed vendors weren't happy about the rule but visitors are happy that the birds are not defecating on them or historic sights.
2. Germany: Don't run out of gas here. It is forbidden to stop on the high-speed autobahns.
3. Spain: When driving, be sure not to wear flip-flops. Also, don't leave groceries in the back seat if you're driving a convertible.
4. Barcelona: If you need to spit, don't do it in public as public spitting is illegal. Save it for a tissue or a bathroom.
5.Greece: You would have to be foolish to do it without it being against the law, but don't wear high heels at Greek archaeological sites such as the Acropolis. Officials found that heels pierce the ancient sites, so they put the ban on high heels in 2008.
6. Scandinavia: Driving during the day without headlights on is illegal. While that may sound strange, it's for a reason as daylight hours are limited during long winter seasons.
7. Singapore: Don't get caught chewing gum here. Since 1992, gum has been banned because the government was sick of people spitting out their gum on subways and other public spots. Medically therapeutic gum is an exception.
8. United Arab Emirates: If you like eating, don't go to the UAE during Ramadan. During this time, Muslims abstain from eating between sunrise and sunset for a month. Locals expect tourists to do the same. This also holds true for Saudi Arabia and they take it seriously as those who disobey the rule can have their visas canceled.
9. Thailand: Don't step on the money here. The currency, Thai baht, features the picture of the King of Thailand. Defaming, insulting or threatening the royal family is illegal, so that means stepping on the currency is also prohibited.
10. Portugal: It's hard to imagine how this rule is enforced, but do not pee in the ocean in this country.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
