Have You Heard of These Bizarre Laws From Around the Globe?

If an international vacation is in your future, you'd be well advised to read on. Here, we've compiled six zany, wacky laws from countries all across the globe.

1. In France, 70% of radio music played between 8 a.m. and 8 a.m. must be by French composers. Another weird French law? You must carry a portable Breathalyzer in your car at all times — or risk having to pay a fine. (Yes, this law applies to tourists, too!)

2. Better bring a cover-up if you're headed to the beaches of Barcelona: It's illegal to wear swimsuits off the beaches of this Spanish city.

3. If you're a woman traveling in Saudi Arabia, make note: You must be escorted by a male relative or guardian at all times, and you're not allowed behind the wheel.

4. Don't empty your piggy bag to pay a public debt in Canada. Any debt exceeding 25 cents may not be paid in pennies.

5. In Australia, performing psychic or tarot card readings is considered witchcraft, and engaging in either activity is illegal.

6. Don't bring your cigarettes and chewing gum to Singapore. Here, smoking in public places is punishable by a hefty fine, and chewing gum while riding this Asian country's public transit is also against the law.

Strange Laws From Around the World [Nat Geo]
13 Funny International Laws You’d Never Know Were Real [Reader's Digest]
International Weird Laws [Law Guru]

Planning a Vacation? Here’s How to Pack Lighter and More Efficiently!

You want to be prepared for everything from a fancy dinner to an afternoon of snorkeling on your upcoming vacation, but so many different activities on your itinerary may make packing your suitcase seem very daunting. Here are four simple ways to pack your suitcase a bit lighter on your next big trip.

  1. Become familiar with the laundry service. Sure, no one wants to do laundry on a vacation, but it’s much more enjoyable than breaking your back from lugging around an impossibly heavy suitcase or backpack. Look up your hotel or hostel’s laundry amenities beforehand, and if there are none, check for the closest laundromat.
  2. Take full advantage of the carry-on. Many travelers are intimidated by the carry-on because of airlines’ strict weight limits, but this smaller bag is a very underutilized space for extra clothes. Just weigh your bag as you pack to avoid paying extra baggage fees.
  3. Mix and match. By packing clothes in neutral shades that can easily coordinate with one another, you cut down on the need to pack separate outfits for each day.
  4. Cut down on shoes. Shoes obviously take up the most space in your suitcase, so be sure to only pack ones that you really need. After all, do you really need stiletto heels on a backpacking trip?

Packing Smart and Traveling Light [Rick Steves]
The Carry-On Challenge: How to Pack Light Every Time [Independent Traveler]
How to Pack Light: 9 Tips to Lighten Your Load [Huffington Post]

Plan a Visit to These Must-See Parks Near Houston, Texas

There's more to Houston that just bright lights and a little Western flair. In fact, you'll find that many of Houston's attractions lie just outside the city. Case in point: These two must-visit parks near Houston. One park lies on the river, while the other is known for its vast biological diversity. Either way, both make for a memorable getaway.

Big Thicket National Preserve
Big Thicket National Preserve is located about two hours outside of Houston. Here, you can find species from very different habitats living among each other in a relatively small area. Take a hike on a variety of different trails, ranging from a brisk boardwalk stroll to an extreme 15 mile trek. The preserve is also a popular destination for birdwatching, as approximately 185 migratory bird species make Big Thicket their home between March and early May. Canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts travel to Big Thicket year-round to cruise the Neches River and Village Creek.

Stephen F. Austin State Park
You'll find Stephen F. Austin State Park just 30 minutes from the outskirts of Houston, so it makes a quick day trip for anyone looking to get outdoors. This scenic retreat offers traditional camping activities such as hiking and fishing, as well as the more modern geocaching. If you'd like to keep it simple, go fishing for catfish along the Brazos River. There are wide variety of campsites to accommodate your camping needs, whether they be a place to hook up your RV, a cabin for shelter, or just a little spot to put your tent.

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