From as simple as flying a kite in Australia to laws about women not being allowed to drink more than one glass of wine in Bolivia, we’ve sought out some unforeseen circumstances that could just land you in not-so-glamorous situations.
While our generation values freedom and individuality, it’s important to respect and abide by the laws and customs of the countries we visit. Each destination has its own set of rules that, if unknowingly broken, can lead to some truly awkward and uncomfortable predicaments. While the lines between adventure and misfortune can be surprisingly thin, here are some unexpected laws some countries might have that most travellers might not be unaware of… Introducing our guide to things you can actually get imprisoned for overseas 👇
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1. Don’t Run Out Of Gas On A German Autobahn
Image credits: CNN
Imagine cruising down the fast lanes of the legendary German Autobahn a.k.a ‘The Highway without Speed Limits’. The wind is whipping through your hair, and the thrill of speed is coursing through your veins as you go over 100 miles per hour. But here’s the catch: running out of gas is not just a mere inconvenience for those on an autobahn adventure, it’s downright illegal!
That’s right, in Germany (the land of precision engineering and efficiency), the Autobahn is a place where the need for speed comes with a fuel-fuelled responsibility. Germans believe that every driver should have the power to keep their vehicles running on the Autobahn. Failure to do so will result in a fine ranging from 30€ to 70€ as it is an offence to be stationary on the Autobahn for safety reasons.
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
2. Don’t Feed The Pigeons In Venice
Image credits: NBC News
As enchanting as Venice is, the Italian destination has an unexpected rule that leaves both tourists and locals scratching their heads — feeding the pigeons is strictly forbidden. In an attempt to regulate the pigeon population, the authorities have banned pigeon feeding as the massive flocks produce excessive waste that can degrade the delicate marble and stone structures that define Venice’s architectural marvels. By curbing their food source, Venetians hope to be able to preserve the city’s cultural heritage for future generations and to ensure that the beating heart of Italy has a harmonious balance between the city’s inhabitants and its feathered visitors.
In fact, the city has taxed each citizen 275€ a year to clean up after the birds throughout the area. Individuals caught breaking this law may face fines of up to 700€ — a hefty price to pay for sharing your gelato or leftover pizza crusts with birds.
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
3. Don’t Wear Camouflage In The Caribbean
Image credits: Lucky Lab Pin
In the sun-kissed paradise of the Caribbean, where vibrant turquoise waters caress pristine beaches and the rhythms of calypso dance through the air, an unexpected fashion faux pas might land you in hot water (literally). From Antigua to Jamaica, wearing camouflage clothing as a civilian is illegal. While the entire region is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and free-spirited vibes, this prohibition stems from a desire to maintain public safety and avoid potential confusion or misunderstandings.
In some countries, this law is to prevent civilians from being confused with members of the military on patrol. While in other countries, it’s to protect the innocent from being confused with those from terrorist organisations.
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
4. Don’t Own Or Drive A Green Car In Nigeria
Image credits: Autojosh
Speaking of the army, did you know that it is unlawful for any person to drive or own any motor vehicle painted green in Nigeria? Yep, that’s right, you can actually be jailed in Nigeria for owning an army green vehicle. The context behind it is simple: In the past, green-painted vehicles were commonly associated with taxicabs and commercial buses, which became notorious for various illegal activities including armed robberies and kidnappings. To combat this association between green vehicles and criminal activities, the Nigeran Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) introduced a policy that restricts privately owned motor vehicles from being painted in the shade.
Individuals with green vehicles may face a fine of N200, imprisonment not exceeding 6 months, or both. Additionally, vehicles can be seized by the government until the owner re-paints the vehicle to a colour other than army green.
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
5. Don’t Fly A Kite In Australia (or Argentina!)
Image credits: Popular Mechanics
When the snow melts and the land welcomes the first fresh breath of spring air, kids all over Australia know that it’s time to go outside and fly their kites with their friends. Well, except for one state. In Victoria, any person who flies a kite or plays a game in a public place to the annoyance of any person will be found guilty of an offence under the Summary Offences Act. Public places include parks, churches, railway stations, boats, schools, markets, and licensed premises that serve alcohol. Geez, talk about being a buzzkill!
However, this law comes with a good historical reason. In the 1940s, Melbourne’s suburban growth was in full swing, and kite flying became increasingly popular amongst children and adults alike. This excitement soon turned into chaos when kite lines get tangled in power lines, causing disruptions to the electricity supply and endangering public safety, which is why the government of Victoria decided to impose a maximum fine of up to AUD $830 for kite fliers.
Aside from Australia, similar laws can be found in the capital city Buenos Aires, which does not allow citizens to fly kites in open public spaces (except for parks, of course).
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
6. Don’t Leave Your Dogs Without Their Daily Walk In Rome
Image credits: Expats Living in Rome
There is a reason why Rome is called the Eternal City — as it’s often a haven for people and animals alike. Rome’s animal cruelty laws are especially strict, and there’s a unique law that celebrates the bond between humans and their four-legged companions. Legally, all pet owners are required to walk their dogs once a day. This law is a testament to the city’s recognition of the physical and emotional well-being of our fellow canines. Dogs are not merely pets, they are cherished family members, loyal confidants and sources of unconditional love.
With this law, Rome aims to ensure that all dogs receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction they need to lead happy and healthy lives. Failure to do so will result in a hefty fine of up to 625€. Similarly, Turin in Italy has a similar law that states dog owners must walk their dogs at least three times per day or be fined 500€. You rock, Italy! Now, this is a law that I can get behind.
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
7. Don’t Drink More Than One Glass Of Wine (Unless You’re A Man!) In Bolivia
Image credits: Conde Nest Traveller
We’ve had some crazy laws on this list, but none of them is as crazy (or as sexist) as Bolivia’s legislation when it comes to drinking for women. In La Paz, married women are only allowed to drink one glass of wine. The government claims that the provision was intended to safeguard women from the potential dangers associated with excessive alcohol consumption, such as increased vulnerability to violence, health risks, or sexual immorality.
It’s important to note that the enforcement and impact of this wine restriction vary across different regions of Bolivia. In some areas, the law is strictly enforced — with husbands being allowed to divorce their wives if they were caught drinking in public. In other areas, it may be more loosely interpreted or not enforced at all.
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
8. Don’t Flush The Toilet After Hours In Switzerland
Image credits: Editorij
In certain parts of Switzerland, it’s common for landlords to impose house rules whereby residents are not allowed to flush their toilets between the hours of 10 PM and 7 AM. This nighttime toilet etiquette fosters a sense of serenity and respect for those sharing the same space, as flushing after hours may disturb your neighbours’ rest. While this may sound ridiculous as not all of us can control when we go to the toilet, it forces residents to be mindful of the noise they’re making in the middle of the night as you are still allowed to go, as long as you’re sitting down for it (and yes, that includes the men as well).
This law may not be followed throughout the entire country and there have been claims that it’s just an urban myth. However, although it might not be illegal to flush toilets, the Swiss government did state that it is forbidden to “be loud and disturb your neighbours” between the hours of 10 PM and 6 AM.
Things You Can Actually Get Imprisoned For Overseas 2023: Find out more here
A Traveller’s Guide To Avoiding Unexpected Arrests
Although some of these laws might seem just a little ridiculous (or a lot), the more you know the better! And as usual, when on your next vacation, be sure to bring along your trusty YouTrip card for the best rates all day!
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