We rarely learn much about the laws of the countries we visit as tourists, but sometimes having this kind of knowledge can prevent unpleasant eventualities. Also, some of these laws are so unusual that we have a hard time really believing them.
We found 9of the most extraordinary things that people in many countries cannot do according to the law.
9. It’s Prohibited To Eat Biscuits On Christmas Day (The United Kingdom)
In 1644 Oliver Cromwell banned the celebration of Christmas because he considered it immoral. Many holiday attributes have been officially banned, including sweet rolls and cookies, but only on Christmas Day.
It is curious that there is no decree repealing Cromwell’s Law, which is why every Englishman technically commits a crime by eating a cookie on Christmas Day, it’s just that nobody cares.
8. You Can’t Touch Whales (The United Kingdom)
Here’s another strange UK law: all whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals within a 3-mile radius of the UK are considered the property of the Queen, so you’re prohibited from touching them. Try not to do this.
7. You Can’t Rescue The Drowning (China)
The mysterious mentality of the East could not have left the laws of China intact. One says that rescuing people who are drowning is illegal.
This law is related to Eastern philosophy, which states that interfering with a person’s destiny is immoral.
However, skeptics think that the Chinese authorities are only trying to control the population with this regulation.
6. It’s Illegal To Kiss At Train Stations (France)
This law is valid both in France and in some stations in the UK: lovers are prohibited from kissing in train stations.
It first appeared in France in 1910, when trains were often delayed by couples who did not want to part.
As a result, the authorities have banned kissing on platforms, but have still created special “kissing zones” where lovers can have a tender moment.
5. It’s Against The Law To Feed The Pigeons (Italy)
Although it is perfectly normal to feed a pigeon a piece of bread, in Venice, it is an illegal act punishable by a fine. This law was enacted to prevent birds from dirtying the beautiful statues and architectural monuments.
4. Banned Kinder Surprise (USA)
The famous chocolate eggs have been banned in the United States since the day they appeared. The reason for this is that, under US law, putting toys in food is prohibited for fear that children will choke on small parts.
In 2013, the United States finally saw Kinders on its store shelves. The authorities allowed the eggs to be sold on the condition that there were large toys made from one piece.
3. You Can’t Pay Only With Change (Canada)
In Canada, you can’t just open your old coin bank and buy something with its contents. A law that came into force in 1985 prohibits payment in coins only if the purchase price exceeds C $ 10.
2. It’s Illegal To Forget About Your Wife’s Birthday (Samoa)
Samoa is an independent Pacific Island state, famous for its unusual laws. One says that the husband should not forget his wife’s birthday.
If that still happens, the court will make the man pay a fine that will go directly to his wife.
1. Don’t Show Your Tattoos (Japan)
Most Japanese do not have tattoos and, even today, they continue to be stigmatized in society due to their association with criminal groups, such as the Yakuza.
There is no law that prohibits tattoos, but various hotels, gyms, public baths, or onsen (hot springs) may not admit customers with visible tattoos.
