Even queue-jumping is against the law: Ten travel taboos you must know

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Every country has different customs and laws, and being familiar with local regulations before traveling abroad can help you avoid trouble. Below is a list of ten practical tips and taboos from various countries, including smoking, queue-jumping, and going out without wearing underwear, all of which could lead to fines or even imprisonment. Travelers might want to take note.

1. Philippines – Smoking
In May 2017, Philippine President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 26, banning smoking in all public places. Offenders may be fined, and in serious cases, face imprisonment. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas; violators can be fined between 500 and 10,000 pesos, with severe cases possibly resulting in jail time.
 
2. Japan – Queue-jumping
Japan’s Minor Offenses Act includes penalties for “cutting in line in public places.” Violations can result in detention or fines. Detention ranges from 1 to 29 days, while fines range from 1,000 to 9,999 yen.

3. Singapore – Littering
Littering in Singapore can result in fines. Trash bins are available on streets, at traffic lights, bus stops, and airports, but not in MRT stations, train carriages, or buses. First-time offenders can be fined up to 2,000 SGD; repeat offenders may face fines up to 4,000 SGD; and third-time or subsequent offenses can incur fines as high as 10,000 SGD, along with mandatory litter-picking duties and warnings. 

4. Thailand – Going out without underwear
Although Thailand’s sex industry is booming, going out without wearing underwear is illegal. In Thailand, driving without a shirt or stepping on the local currency are also against the law. Additionally, showing disrespect to the king can result in a 15-year prison sentence.

5. Denmark – Driving with headlights on during the day
In Denmark, drivers must keep their headlights on even during the day; failure to do so may result in a fine of 70 euros. Studies have shown that daytime running lights help increase visibility to other drivers and reduce traffic accidents by 3%. Similar regulations apply in other European countries, including Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Sweden, and Hungary. 

6. France – Staring at women for too long
France boasts charming landmarks, culture, and a romantic atmosphere, along with many stylish locals. However, staring at women for too long is against local norms. According to the “Modern Traveler’s Etiquette Guide” published by Paris traffic authorities, visitors are advised not to stare at women for extended periods, as complaints could lead to mandatory educational sessions.

7. Switzerland – Flushing the toilet after 10 PM
In Swiss apartment buildings, flushing the toilet after 10 PM is prohibited and considered illegal, as local authorities believe noise pollution causes more harm to the public than odors. 

8. Italy – Wearing revealing clothing
In the Italian town of Spinetoli, a new regulation aims to ensure road safety by requiring all female sex workers to avoid revealing clothing and wear reflective vests instead. Those who don’t comply may be fined 500 euros. Additionally, wearing revealing clothes inside churches is strictly prohibited.