Vaping in Thailand, wearing camouflage in Barbados and having a tattoo of Buddha in Sri Lanka are all things the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is warning young Brits could get them in trouble abroad.

The government branch in charge of travel advice recently found that only 38% of young people read the advisories before they head to a destination – meaning many might be unaware of potential dangers or local laws and customs. Since 33% of 18- to 24-years-olds will be influenced by celebrities while prepping for their Easter holidays, the FCO warns that some popular celebrity destinations have stricter laws than in the UK.
Here are some of the local laws that might surprise you:

UAE
Swearing and rude gestures – even online – are seen as obscene acts and those caught could be jailed or deported.
Thailand
Vaporisers like e-cigarettes, e-baraku or refills can’t be brought into Thailand. The items will probably be confiscated and those caught with them could be fined or sent to prison for up to ten years if convicted.
Greece
Indecent behaviour, like mooning, could lead to arrest and a fine or even a prison sentence.

Sri Lanka
The mistreatment of Buddhist images and artefacts is a serious offence – and has led to trouble for tourists in the past, including conviction. Having a visible tattoo of Buddha has resulted in being refused entry to the country and even deportation. The FCO warns travellers not to pose for photographs standing in front of a statue of Buddha.
Japan
Medicines that are allowed in many countries, like Vicks Inhalers or painkillers containing Codeine, are banned in Japan and could lead to detention and deportation.

Turkey
Insulting the Turkish nation or flag, or defacing or tearing up currency is an offence in the country. Convictions could lead to a prison sentence that could last between six months and three years.
Caribbean
Wearing camouflage is banned in many Caribbean countries, like Barbados, St. Vincent, and St. Lucia. This also applies to children.
Spain
Starting a forest fire is a crime in Spain – even if it was completely unintentional.

Australia
Australia’s incredible ecosystem means the country has very strict quarantine laws that are designed to stop pests and disease from impact the country’s plants, animals and people. If you break the laws, you could face large fines – just ask Johnny Depp.
Ukraine
Smoking and drinking alcohol in public places – such as at bus stops, playgrounds and parks – is banned in Ukraine.
Learn more about local laws and customs around the world here.
Source Article from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/2018/03/19/fco-travel-advice-young-travellers/
Breaking these lesser-known laws could get you in trouble abroad
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/2018/03/19/fco-travel-advice-young-travellers/
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/feed/
Lonely Planet Travel News
Travel news and more from Lonely Planet
You must be logged in to post a comment.