People wanting to do a little shopping while on holiday in Spain have been warned that they could face heavy fines if they are caught flouting the rules when buying certain items.
Knowing the local laws and regulations when going on holiday is important not only to avoid trouble but also as a sign of respect for your destination.
Some of these are more widely known than others – and one in which Spanish authorities are stepping up their crackdown concerns buying “fake” designer clothes from street sellers.
New research from Haypp has found that 80% of people are unaware of changes to the law that applies to them abroad, so the team has compiled some of the most important laws you may not yet be aware of.
And a warning has been issued to holiday shoppers who like to buy “fake” handbags on the beach over the summer – this is now banned. As part of efforts to remove unlicensed street vendors from tourist sites, Spain has announced it will impose fines of 200 euros (£170) on tourists who buy from them.
The government announced this to reduce the sale of illegal goods, so be careful when browsing ‘fakes’ this summer.
With that in mind, here are some lesser known laws everyone should be aware of this holiday season.
urinate in the sea
Most people have taken a quick trip to the sea at some point in their lives, but the northern Spanish city of Vigo has introduced a law banning urinating in the sea.
If you are caught you can be fined up to £640. Despite the ban being in place it is unclear how the authorities are monitoring it, but it is recommended that you avoid this behaviour.
Electronic Cigarette
Laws regarding e-cigarettes are constantly changing, not just in the UK but around the world.
Australia, Thailand and Turkey are some of the countries that have completely banned disposable e-cigarettes. If e-cigarettes are found where they are illegal, you could face a fine of up to £2,000 or even worse, prison time.
Crossing the Street
Travelers in Germany, Switzerland, Australia and the United States this summer could face heavy fines for the simple act of crossing the road.
Also known as “red light jaywalking”, the law was enacted to reduce accidents and means tourists who cross roads outside designated areas are fined.
Wear swimming gear
This summer, leave your swimsuit at the pool or beachside. While many people might think it’s OK to wander around in a bikini or swimming trunks, many popular holiday destinations, including Spain, Italy and Croatia, have laws banning swimsuits and threatening fines of up to €500 for anyone seen in public.
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