We’ve all heard that the UK has some weird and wonderful laws, from not being allowed to die in the Houses of Parliament to the appropriate time to beat a door mat. But just how much do we know about the weird laws across the globe?
Here’s our rundown of some of the strangest laws around.
- Falling in Florida
Ladies, if you’re heading to Florida on your holiday and you aren’t married, then be mindful of what you do. We don’t mean all the time, but if you fancy a spot of parachuting, you might want to avoid doing it on a Sunday, as this could land you in jail.
- Australian Light Bulbs
If you’re in Victoria and the light goes out, don’t touch it. That’s because the law states, a light bulb can only be changed by a licensed electrician in Australia’s second most populated state. However if you do change your bulb, you could incur a fine of around five British pounds.
- Be Happy in Milan
Are you visiting one of the world’s leading fashion capitals? Well if you are, ensure you pack your best smile, as it’s a legal requirement to smile at all times; those that don’t could face a hefty fine. The law is waved when attending a funeral or visiting someone in hospital however.
- Donkey Business in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma it’s against the law to have a sleeping donkey in your bathtub after 7pm. So if your donkey does fancy a relaxing snooze in the tub, then make sure he’s awake, dry and snoozing in his bed by 7pm.
- Watch your Weight in Japan
We all know Japan gave us the rather unusual sport of sumo wrestling, but did you know it’s forbidden to be fat there. In 2009 a law was passed that stated men over the age of 40 must have a waistline measuring 31 inches and under, whereas a woman could have a maximum waistline of 35 inches.
- Home Grown Artists in Canada
If you’re a big fan of Celine Dion or Justin Bieber, then popping on the Canadian radio could serve you well. This is because the Canadian Radio and Television Commission states that both types of programming has to have at least a fifth by Canadian performers, which is one in every five songs.
- Britain’s Alien Invasion
Are you worried about the aliens invading? Then make sure you’re in the UK when they invade, because the ‘Outer Space Act 1986’ says the Secretary of State can use ‘reasonable force’ to prevent an alien invasion in the UK. However if our invaders have a licence to do so, then there’s not much the secretary can do, as they can operate their space objects in perfect legality.
- Dining in Denmark
Make sure you get your fill when eating in Denmark, as you aren’t required to pay, if by your own opinion, you aren’t full. Great for you, no so much for those catering all you can eat buffets.
- Be Mindful of your Thai Wardrobe
Thailand is renowned for a wide variety of things but whatever you do, don’t leave home without underwear, as it’s illegal. You can also get arrested for driving a car without wearing a shirt, regardless of wearing underwear or not; so make sure you triple check your outfit before heading out.