British holidaymakers risk fines or even arrest for committing actions that are perfectly legal in the UK, such as feeding pigeons or eating near churches, the Foreign Office has warned.
Last year, the Foreign Office dealt with 19,244 consular assistance cases, including 5,435 arrests. More than a quarter of these cases were related to arrests or detentions, many of which could have been avoided with better research before travelling.
Charles Hay, director of consular services, said: "Every year British nationals find themselves on the wrong side of the law unexpectedly, resulting in fines or in some cases arrests or even jail sentences." He added that laws and customs vary greatly between countries, and what is legal in the UK could be punishable elsewhere.
The Foreign Office highlighted several unusual laws, including a ban on feeding pigeons in Venice, a prohibition on eating or drinking near churches and public buildings in Florence, and a ban on camouflage clothing in Barbados. Chewing gum is also prohibited on Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit system, and some common nasal sprays are illegal in Japan.
Mr Hay noted that many Britons treat their passport as a "get out of jail free card", but warned that the Foreign Office cannot interfere in another country's legal processes. He advised travellers to familiarise themselves with local laws, particularly regarding alcohol, drugs and cigarettes, as possession laws can vary widely even in countries perceived as tolerant.
