CLOTHING - When traveling to foreign destinations, it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. In many religious locations, it may be necessary to cover your head or arms as a sign of respect. Be sure to research the customs of the places you plan to visit and dress accordingly to avoid any unintentional offense.

​

CAMOUFLAGE - Many countries (about 11 countries around the world) ban the wearing of camouflage clothing. A large majority of those are in the Caribbean. So, if you’re cruising in the Caribbean, you can’t wear anything that’s camouflage designed or looks like a military uniform. In the Caribbean, camouflage is banned in Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. You’ll also find it’s banned in some places in Asia. This includes the Philippines, and many countries in the Middle East. Plus, if you were to go on a river cruise in Africa, you’d find that it’s banned in Zimbabwe, too.

​

SPOKEN WORD - One of the most serious laws in Thailand should always be observed. If broken, you could face a decade in jail and that law is being overheard criticizing the Royal Family. Even standing on a banknote which has the Royal Family on it is a big NO. There are very strict laws around defaming the Royal Family, and they are rigorously enforced. Bear this in mind when you’re in any country. Be cautious and don’t criticize the government or leaders in public spaces.

​

PHOTOGRAPHY - When you’re heading out on excursions, particularly if you’re going with a tour guide, check if there are any restrictions. Avoid taking photographs anywhere in or near airports, military or government buildings. Various excursions in different countries where the guide may say, ‘don’t take pictures of those buildings’.

​

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION - This tends to be in more religious countries, particularly in the Middle East, but certainly into parts of Asia, too. In these countries, public displays of affection are not just frowned upon, but actually not allowed, and could lead to serious consequences. For LGBTQ couples there could be some issues around whether it’s even legal to have those kinds of relationships. Some cruising into Dubai there are big briefings, not only about clothing, but also warning against public shows of affection. So, bear in mind if you’re heading out, you may want to keep your hugs and kisses for the ship.

There are some cultural areas where you need to be careful. For example, in Japan, where public shows of affection are really not well thought of. If you’re on a cruise to the Baltics and into Russia and you’re a same-sex couple, beware of showing any signs of affection.

​

FOOD & DRINK - In some countries it’s culturally seen as unacceptable, but more places are starting to introduce laws and regulations. Sometimes just in local towns or municipalities, where you can get some quite big fines.

Europe features a lot of restrictions on eating and drinking in some public spaces. Particularly around religious or Holy sites. In Florence and Venice, it’s an offence to eat and drink near churches, historic monuments, and public buildings.

Many countries also have restrictions on drinking in public or on public transport. In Singapore, chewing gum is a big no-no, and particularly the disposal of chewing gum. There’s even a bizarre rule in Singapore where if you don’t flush a public lavatory, you can risk an on-the-spot fine.

It’s worth being really disciplined about where you eat and drink, and a good tip is to look around and see what the locals are doing. If they’re not walking around eating a sandwich or drinking, you probably know it’s not appropriate. And it’s possibly a law or at the very least, a cultural issue.