Married women in Bolivia are only allowed a single glass of wine.
We can already hear the collective sigh of wine lovers around the world. So, what’s the reason behind this law? Let’s just say there have been one too many incidents of people getting drunk and disorderly. Now, we’re not sure why married women are singled out, however. We wonder how much lawyers make for cases such as this one.
Public officials in Bolivia drew up this decree and prohibits married women to drink more than one glass of wine in public places such as restaurants and bars. Their other half can even use this as an argument when filing for legal separation so better watch out! The rule only applies to married women, so those who are still single can indulge themselves. Savor the moment while it lasts right?
Men in strapless gowns are not allowed in Florida.
Some states in the US have their fair share of weird and unusual laws. Of course, we can’t discount Florida. Did you know that it is considered illegal for men in Florida to wear anything that resembles a strapless gown? You’d think this wouldn’t even be necessary, but local folks are a creative bunch and lawyers even found a way to wear gowns without breaking any provisions set by the lawmakers in Florida. The solution? Well, they added straps to it!
This is one of those cases where the law is so absurd, the people have taken it upon themselves to show those in charge exactly that. Besides, Florida is known for its easy-going and fun-loving citizens, so we’re not too surprised about the plot twist here.
No tree climbing in Toronto.
“Keep off the grass,” or “don’t pick flowers” are just some of the usual signs we see when it comes to protecting nature. In Toronto, however, they have a new set of rules that many people might not readily agree with. This is especially the case if they’re the type that’s fond of climbing trees. The city has made it illegal for people to do so.
In the first place, even if you have good insurance, you really shouldn’t be testing your luck in this manner. Fortunately, the governing authority of Ontario has its people’s best interests in mind. This hasn’t stopped locals from trying, though. In fact, in 2013, a man was fined more than $300 after he dared to climb a tree.
The elderly should be given proper respect.
China is known for doing a great job when it comes to protecting their elderly. They further strengthened this character among people by making it an official law. Back in 2013, around 200 million Chinese citizens passed the age of 60. While some were still able to perform everyday tasks without worry, there were those that needed help. Of course, it was also important that they maintain their dignity, despite their advanced age.
This new rule seeks to provide various aid to the country’s elderly, including mental and financial support. It required children with elderly parents to care for them properly. From insurance policies, making sure their daily needs are met, to showing utmost respect—they are bound by law to provide for these.
No stray chickens allowed in Quitman, Georgia.
In the small city of Quitman in the state of Georgia, there is a local ordinance that gets credit for potentially ending the question: why did the chicken cross the road? That’s because, in this locale, any chicken caught crossing the road means their owners would have to pay a hefty fine. After all, it is illegal for them to be out and about in the first place.
Chapter 8 of the city’s code, clearly states that a person who owns and raises chickens, ducks, and other domesticated fowls should do everything in their power to not let their fowls run around the city. This includes both public places and private land, especially without the owner’s consent.
Paying with one too many coins is not allowed in Canada.
Does anyone have spare change? Most people do, but paying for products and services with just coins can be problematic. This is why according to Canada’s Currency Act of 1985, there is a limit on how many coins people are allowed to use in their transactions. This is an ingenious way to properly manage coins in circulation. However, many people find it odd, since it is a pretty uncommon law to have.
What if you only have coins on you? Well, you can either get it changed at the bank or just use your credit card to purchase. That sleek plastic card is practically weightless, which makes it preferable for those able to afford it. Coins can be inconvenient to carry around, after all.
Fortune-telling has no place in Maryland.
Getting your fortune read is always one of the most intriguing activities you can do ever so often. It can provide valuable insight and advice, even if you’re not the type to believe in it. However, if you’re in Maryland, you might have trouble finding fortune tellers since they’re not as accessible. Why? This is because the services they provide are illegal in the state. You can end up in jail or paying a fine of $500 if you’re caught soliciting fortune-telling services!
It doesn’t matter what kind of form it comes in. From palm reading and tarot to the use of crystal balls—divination is strictly prohibited by Article 4 of Maryland’s Public Local Laws. Lawyer up if you insist on going through with it.
Selfies with Buddha is illegal in Sri Lanka
Selfie-enthusiasts, beware. If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, please be aware of local customs and rules when you’re around statues of the Buddha. You are not allowed to take a selfie with them, because this means you would have to turn your back on the deity—and that is plain disrespectful for Sri Lankans who believe him to be their god Vishnu’s avatar.
Always show a degree of respect by not taking photos of Buddha altogether, lest you risk getting locked up in jail. Pointing a finger at a statue of the Buddha and sporting inappropriate tattoos of Buddha can also mean jail time. Dress appropriately, pocket your cellphone and cameras before going near a statue of their revered prophet.
French beaches demand male visitors to wear Speedos
When going for a swim or a stroll along the beaches of France, men are required to wear Speedos or more accurately, tight-fitting swimming trunks. The teeny weeny kind. And this law applies not just to beaches, but also to public pools. Why? It’s because of hygiene. The authorities in France deem this as an effective way of preserving the water’s purity.
Basically, trunks are not worn anywhere else other than in the pool or the beach. This means they weren’t polluted by potentially harmful substances that can be found in other public areas of the country. Also referred to as “slip de bain”, remember to bring one with you if you ever want to try swimming in France’s popular beaches.
Do not pretend to be married when getting a hotel room in North Carolina
So you and your beaux want to get a hotel room in the state of North Carolina. You can do so, just don’t register yourselves as a married couple unless you actually are. The authorities don’t take this kind of deception lightly.
Carry yourself with a degree of integrity and honesty, and avoid doing this just to get better accommodation packages. In NC, only legally married couples have a right to say that they are husband and wife. You wouldn’t want to risk potential jail time because of this slip-up. Should you end up behind bars, however, know that you wouldn’t be the first one to make the mistake. Needless to say, just follow local laws or end up needing an attorney to bail you out.