Foreign Office warns Brits about being caught out by weird laws abroad

Feeding the pigeons in Venice or chewing gum on a train in Singapore may seem innocent enough, but these are just a couple of the reasons why holidaymakers have found themselves with hefty fines while abroad - and in some cases even arrested.

Every year Brits are caught out by local laws and customs which might seem harmless in the UK, but carry serious consequences elsewhere.

More than 27 per cent of cases where Britons require consular assistance are for arrests and detentions, with the most being in Italy, the United Arab Emirates and the Netherlands.

Now the Foreign Office is warning UK travellers about the importance of familiarising themselves with local laws before they go on holiday.

In Japan, it is illegal to take some commonly available nasal sprays containing pseudoephedrine, so you may want to pack extra tissues instead.

While Barcelona is a popular beach destination, you won't want to be seen wearing your bikini or swimming trunks if you're away from the beach area, otherwise you'll be hit with a large fine.

You could be arrested and detained if you're found photographing government buildings and palaces in Saudi Arabia.

In Barbados, it is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing and it is prohibited to take mineral water into Nigeria.

Thinking of visiting the Italian city of Florence? You could be fined if caught sitting on the steps and courtyards or eating and drinking in churches and public buildings.

Check out more of the world's weirdest laws below...

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