Many travelers believe they understand basic international travel rules. However, penalty data shows millions have unknowingly violated local regulations while traveling, leading to substantial fines or severe legal consequences.

Spain's beach regulations

In Benidorm, Spain, swimming from midnight to 7h is prohibited to prevent accidents, with fines ranging from 850 to 1,400 USD. Penalties also apply to sleeping or camping on the beach. These restrictions reflect Spain's effort to maintain order at popular tourist destinations as visitor numbers increase.

The city of Seville has implemented measures targeting noisy behavior at bachelor and bachelorette parties to protect public order. The city now closely monitors party groups, applying penalties for disruptive activities that bother residents or damage the cultural atmosphere. Many travelers only discover these rules after receiving fines.

Thailand's strict vaping ban

Thailand imposes severe penalties for possessing electronic cigarettes, including imprisonment and fines. Over the past decade, countless travelers have faced on-the-spot fines or even arrest and deportation. The country maintains one of the world's strictest anti-vaping stances, even though these products are legal in many nations.

Violators can face heavy penalties, including fines up to 500,000 baht (approximately 410 million dong) and imprisonment for two to five years for importing or distributing. For travelers caught using a vape, even in private, penalties can include on-the-spot fines from 10,000 to 30,000 baht (approximately 8,2 to 24 million dong), device confiscation, and even deportation. Recent campaigns, such as the directive from former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in early 2025, have led to hundreds of arrests, with over 690 people apprehended in just one week in March.

Citizens can report electronic cigarette use and receive up to 60% of the fine imposed on the violator. For example, if someone is fined 5,000 baht, the informant can receive 3,000 baht. This reward system makes it impossible for travelers to use electronic cigarettes even in seemingly private places.

Illustration of a person vaping. Photo: Telegraph

Similarly, Singapore has issued a comprehensive ban on the import, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes. Travelers found possessing these products face severe penalties, including fines or imprisonment.

For possessing, using, or purchasing regular vapes, first-time offenders can be fined from 500 SGD (approximately 10 million dong) for minors under 18 years old, up to 700 SGD (approximately 14 million dong) for adults, along with disciplinary measures. If the vape contains etomidate, the fine will be higher, with imprisonment up to six months and a mandatory rehabilitation program.

Italy's environmental protection measures

Sardinia island enforces limits on the number of visitors at its most popular beaches and applies fines of nearly 4,000 USD for sand theft, especially at the pink beach Spiaggia Rosa. The famous pink beach has been closed to visitors since the mid-1990s to prevent further sand loss, though many tourists still attempt to access it, unaware of the ban.

The village of Portofino applies a fine of approximately 300 USD for loitering at popular photo spots to reduce street congestion. This rule targets two well-known "red zones" that obstruct pedestrian traffic, enforced since Easter weekend to enhance the visitor experience while preventing overcrowding. Social media has exacerbated this issue as travelers seek the perfect photo, disregarding local traffic.

Japan's new insurance requirement

The Japanese government is preparing to require all incoming travelers to have private travel insurance after an increasing number of visitors sought medical care and left without payment. In 9/2024 alone, over 11,000 travelers were treated at hospitals, and nearly 90 left without paying their bills.

Travelers taking photos at Chureito Pagoda, Japan. Photo: Matador

With a target of 60 million travelers annually by 2030, Japan is adjusting policies to keep its system sustainable. This insurance requirement represents a significant shift that many travelers only learn about when questioned at customs, potentially delaying entry or creating unexpected situations.

Portugal's beach noise restrictions

Portugal hopes to ensure peace on its beaches by applying heavy fines for loud noise. The National Maritime Authority has banned portable speakers with fines ranging from approximately 200 to 39,000 USD for individuals and groups to provide a peaceful beach experience for all visitors. These rules were introduced as growing beach parties and loud music systems disturbed others on the beach.

Many travelers assume beaches are public spaces with no ordinary noise restrictions. However, Portugal's approach reflects European efforts to balance tourism revenue with resident quality of life.

New Zealand's electronic approval system

From 1/10/2019, all visitors to New Zealand must possess a valid visa or an NZeTA (for passport holders from visa-exempt countries and Australian Permanent Residents). NZeTA approval can take up to 72 hours. Many visa-exempt travelers often overlook this rule.

The NZeTA requirement also applies to transit passengers, as they need approval even if they never leave the airport. Border agencies have increased inspections, and undeclared products can be confiscated if discovered by customs. Therefore, items should be declared during the electronic application process.

Hoai Anh (According to AOL)