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Tourist no-nos: Things that cause offence around the world
  • Any indecent behaviour, such as showing your bum in public, is not tolerated anywhere on the Greek islands. In fact, some fancy dress costumes can also go against Greece's decency laws.
  • Only Buddhist Monks are allowed to touch people's heads in Thailand. The head is seen as the most holy part of the body and touching or covering someone else's is seen as disrespectful.
  • Jamaica is famous for lots of things - sunshine, beaches and... getting high! But contrary to popular belief, it is strictly illegal to smoke marijuana on the island. Many people seem to think otherwise!
  • If you want to buy a German a bottle of wine, stick to the wine that's been imported from elsewhere. Giving German wine says that you don't trust them to provide quality wine themselves.
  • Jaywalking is an illegal activity in the Czech Republic. Always cross at signed crossings and wait for the green man signal to light up if there is one.
  • If you're travelling with a pet, Singapore isn't your best bet. You're allowed to keep animals indoors but having your pet in any public area is against the law.
  • In China, you should never greet anybody by embracing them or kissing them unless you know them extremely well.
  • You may wish to give someone thank you flowers during your stay in Russia, but make sure the bouquet is made up of an odd number of flowers. An even number is for funerals here.
  • It is illegal to speak even slightly negatively about the King in Thailand - or any member of the Royal Family for that matter. Even saying something as a joke could land you in jail.
  • It's not that Italians don't like rock music, but making the 'rock on' horns hand gesture in this country insultingly translates as you telling someone their wife is unfaithful.
  • It's considered extremely insulting to eat anything with your hands in Chile - even foods that you love to pick up such as hamburgers or chips! Make sure you always use your cutlery in public.
  • Travelling up the escalator can be tricky business in Japan and it is frowned upon and rude to stand on the wrong side. Stand on the right side in Osaka and the left in Tokyo - or just copy the locals!
  • When visiting Kenya, the etiquette is to not call someone by their first name. You should call people Mr or Mrs Last Name, or Sir or Madam if you don't know it.
  • Electronic cigarettes are illegal in Dubai and across the UAE, and will be confiscated at the border if you try to bring them with you on holiday.

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