We are living half of our lives to follow the rules to avoid getting in trouble. From the simple house rules to the laws in the the country that we needed to obey. But did you know that in other parts of the world, there are strange laws that need to follow? Laws that we should be aware so we won’t get in trouble the next time we visit or live in these countries. Here take a look at some of the strange laws from around the world.
Switzerland
It is illegal to flush the toilet after 10PM in Switzerland, for flushing is considered a noise pollution. But this applies depending on the apartment building you’re living in. The Swiss Homeowner’s Society (HEV) leaves the renting law open for the owners to set the rules. There is an Article 25f in Swiss Renters’ Law that contain words regarding about this matter. According to the article, the tenant must be considerate to other tenants and neighbors, that it would be considered borderline if you will drain your tub after 10PM. But nowadays, with proper insulation and building of the sewage system, there are less incidents about the sounds of flushing that can cause trouble to the tenants.
Hong Kong
There is a law in Hong Kong where it is legal for the wife to kill her husband if he is guilty of adultery. But the condition is no weapon is permitted to use, and she can only use her bare hands. If the wife wishes to kill the mistress, she is also entitled to kill her in any manner she desires.
Australia
It is illegal to carry more than 50kg of potatoes in Western Australia. The Potato Marketing Corporation has the power to stop and search any vehicles that is suspected to carry more than 50kgs of potatoes according to the Marketing Act of Potato of 1946. But last year there was a move to pass a legislation to abolish the controversial potato law.
Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, cheating on the exams can be a big trouble. Fifteen years old and above can be send directly to jail if you were caught cheating on your final examinations. Every year, the Bangladeshi government do necessary warnings to stop cheating during examinations. This law is for the benefit of the children by making sure that they will have a better education and to avoid child labour.
Poland
Winnie the Pooh was banned by the councilors in the small town of Tuszyn in Central Poland. Government was claiming that the cartoon character is “inappropriately dressed” and is “half naked.” They said that it was inappropriate for the children and even attacked the author of the book A.A Milne and claiming that he was “disturbing.”
Canada
Love your own is what they want to implement in this country. Radio stations must play all music from Canadian Artists, at least 35% of the songs each week with Canadian content. According also to the rule, that if 50% of the music selection for the week will be instrumental, at least 15% of it must be with Canadian content.
Italy
Did you know that feeding the pigeons in Venice, Italy is against the law now? Giving water to the birds can also get you in trouble. Even though feeding was considered a tradition by some local vendors, the government banned the feeding to keep down the pigeon population. It was said that there’s an increase in the cost of cleaning up the mess from the birds. There was also a risk to human health from the disease that pigeons might be carrying. The damage the pigeons were causing to the marbles of the historical buildings in the city is also a reason.
Nigeria
It is apparently illegal to bring mineral water in Nigeria. If found importing one, the items will be confiscated and you will have a fine. It is a way to promote Nigerian product to both locals and visitors in the country.
Samoa
Just like the quote by Gavin Rossdale, “A happy wife is a happy life.” In Samoa they cares about the happiness of the wives living in country. For the forgetful men who wants to marry in Samoa, then be aware of this law. It is a crime to forget your wife’s birthday in that country. If you do, you’ll spend the day or two inside the jail house where you can’t find happiness either.
Spain
If you want to explore the beaches in Barcelona, Spain, be sure to be aware of one rule they implement in the city. It’s against the law to wear a bikini or swimming suits or walk bare-chested, away from the beachfront area. The law was to maintain a standards in the city, it was a campaign by local residents and business owners having problems looking at the tourists wandering around the streets semi naked and not properly dressed.
