From chewing gum to yellow colour: the strangest fines in the world

Various countries have such unusual rules that they resemble the plot of a comedy film rather than real laws. However, for tourists, this is no joke — violating some of them can result in a serious fine or even legal problems. From a ban on chewing gum in Singapore to restrictions on kissing and sandcastles in Italy, the world is full of unexpected rules that are worth knowing about in advance. Find out what strange prohibitions might surprise you when travelling and how to avoid trouble

Electronic road vignette for traveling in Europe

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Various countries around the world still have official rules that seem like something out of a comedy. But despite their strangeness, these rules are no joke, and violating them can result in a real fine or even more serious consequences. With reference to Seven Seas Worldwide, we will tell you about the strangest and most unexpected restrictions you may encounter while travelling.

Singapore

Singapore has long been known for its love of order and cleanliness, and one of its most famous and controversial measures is the ban on chewing gum. It was introduced in the early 1990s when the authorities were faced with the city literally ‘drowning’ in sticky marks on the streets, transport and public places.

Today, the import and sale of regular chewing gum is still prohibited. The exception is medicinal and nicotine gum, which can only be purchased at a pharmacy with a doctor's prescription. So if you are used to having chewing gum ‘just in case,’ it is better not to take it to Singapore.

Australia

In the Australian state of Victoria, safety issues were once taken so seriously that even simply replacing a burnt-out light bulb was considered a dangerous interference with electrical installations. Only a licensed person had the right to do this.

The rule was eventually abolished, but the very fact that it existed still raises a smile and is remembered as a curiosity from the past.

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Switzerland

There is a long-standing myth among tourists that it is forbidden to flush the toilet after 10 p.m. in Switzerland. There is no direct law, but there are strict rules regarding ‘night-time quiet’ in residential buildings.

Neighbours have the right to complain even about everyday noises if they consider them too loud. So the joke ‘breathe more quietly after 10 p.m.’ sounds almost literal here.

Italy

Italy is famous for its emotions, romance and freedom — but not everywhere and not always. In the resort town of Iracchia, near Venice, tourists are prohibited from building sandcastles on the beach. The authorities believe that such structures interfere with the free movement of people and the work of lifeguards.

And in the city of Eboli, there is an even more unexpected rule — a ban on kissing in cars. The reason is safety concerns: according to local authorities, couples caught up in their emotions often became easy prey for criminals. The fine for violation ranges from 50 to 500 euros.

Travelling around Europe by car?

Many cities in this ranking are popular destinations for road trips that include toll motorways. To avoid fines and unnecessary hassle, it is important to purchase an electronic vignette in advance.

On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can quickly obtain an electronic vignette for toll roads in Europe. Officially, safely, without queues and unnecessary bureaucracy. Convenient payment, instant confirmation and support — everything to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

Don't delay — get your electronic vignette at Visit Ukraine and travel around Europe without any obstacles!

Thailand

In Thailand, it is strongly discouraged to step on banknotes or treat them carelessly. The monarch is depicted on the banknotes, and any sign of disrespect towards his image is perceived as an insult to the king.

The consequences can be very serious: from hefty fines to criminal liability.

Therefore, it is better to be careful even with small things under your feet on Thai streets.

Malaysia

For several years, Malaysia had one of the most unusual restrictions in place: a ban on yellow clothing and accessories. The bright colour became a symbol of the opposition movement, and the authorities decided to neutralise its influence in the most direct way possible.

T-shirts, hats, ribbons — any yellow items of clothing could raise questions from law enforcement officers.

Reminder! The cleanliness of a city often determines the first impression of tourists and can either enhance their love for the location or ruin their trip. A new study has revealed which cities have become models of order and which have received the most criticism from travellers. Learn more about the cleanest and dirtiest cities in the world that made the ranking and why they ended up there.

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