9 Nations with Bizarre Laws: (But Incredible Quality of Life) – Where You Can’t Chew Gum but Can Live Tax-Free!
Streets so pristine that even a stray leaf feels out of place—yet a simple stick of gum is contraband.
Wealth flows effortlessly, with no income tax to claim it, but a velvet rope of restrictions keeps locals from games of chance. Across the globe, unexpected laws shape daily life in ways both baffling and brilliant, creating places where structure meets extraordinary quality of life.
Beneath the surface of these unusual rules lies a deeper story—one of culture, prosperity, and perspective-shifting travel. Beyond the bizarre, a world of discovery awaits.
Step inside and uncover destinations that defy convention.
1. Singapore – Where Perfection Meets Precision
Step into Singapore, and you’ll find a city-state that feels like a glimpse into the future—where towering skyscrapers meet lush vertical gardens, and strict regulations create an almost surreal sense of order. Walking through Marina Bay, the crisp, gum-free streets glisten under the neon glow of Supertree Grove, while the scent of hawker center delicacies wafts through the air. The ban on chewing gum, imposed to maintain the city’s pristine infrastructure, is just one of many rules that uphold its near-utopian aesthetic. But this rigidity is balanced by a remarkable quality of life—top-tier healthcare, tax-free earnings for many, and a seamless blend of cultures that create a dynamic, exhilarating experience for both residents and visitors.
A night stroll along the Singapore River reveals the city’s true duality—on one side, the colonial elegance of Raffles Hotel, where the Singapore Sling was invented; on the other, the futuristic silhouette of Marina Bay Sands. The first time you gaze at Gardens by the Bay, it feels like stepping into a sci-fi film—man-made trees harnessing solar energy, skywalks suspended above bioluminescent foliage, and a climate-controlled Cloud Forest that mimics tropical mist zones.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-Peak Seasons: Best visited from February to April (dry season); avoid heavy rainfall from November to January.
- Best Ways to Reach & Explore: Changi Airport is a global aviation hub. The MRT (subway) is the most efficient way to explore.
- Ideal Duration of Visit: 4–5 days to experience the mix of urban energy and cultural gems.
- Must-Try Local Experiences: Eat at a hawker center (try Hainanese chicken rice & laksa), visit the Night Safari, explore Sentosa Island, and take a skywalk at Gardens by the Bay.
- Budget Considerations: A mid-range trip costs $100–$200/day; luxury stays can easily exceed $500/day.
- Cultural Etiquette Tips: No littering, no jaywalking, and avoid public displays of affection. Tipping isn’t customary.
- Photography Opportunities: Marina Bay Sands skyline, Gardens by the Bay at night, colorful Peranakan houses in Katong.
2. United Arab Emirates – The Oasis of Extravagance & Tradition
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a land where sky-high ambitions meet deep-rooted traditions. In Dubai, the Burj Khalifa pierces the clouds, reflecting the fiery hues of the desert sun, while the golden souks of Deira remain frozen in time, their air thick with the scent of saffron and oud. This is a place where contradictions coexist—the strict public behavior laws might raise eyebrows, yet there’s a sense of freedom in the sheer opulence the country offers. No income tax means that expats and investors flock here, transforming the skyline into a testament to modern wealth.
The first time I saw the Dubai Fountain show against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, I felt as if I were in a futuristic fairy tale. The synchronized dance of water and light, set to the crescendo of Arabic and Western melodies, is a hypnotic experience. Yet, beyond the grandeur, the UAE is rich in hidden corners—the tranquil Liwa Desert, the rugged Hajar Mountains, and the enchanting streets of old Dubai.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-Peak Seasons: November to March offers cooler weather; avoid summer (June to September) when temperatures exceed 45°C (113°F).
- Best Ways to Reach & Explore: Dubai & Abu Dhabi airports connect globally. Metro and taxis are reliable within cities.
- Ideal Duration of Visit: 5–7 days to experience city, desert, and coastal attractions.
- Must-Try Local Experiences: Dune bashing in the Rub’ al Khali desert, shopping in Dubai Mall, visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, and dining at Al Fahidi Historic District.
- Budget Considerations: Budget-friendly options exist, but luxury dominates. Daily costs can range from $150 (budget) to $1,000+ (high-end).
- Cultural Etiquette Tips: Public displays of affection are discouraged, and modest attire is expected in non-tourist areas.
- Photography Opportunities: Burj Khalifa at sunset, the Grand Mosque’s reflection, and the golden dunes of the Arabian desert.
3. Switzerland – The Fairytale of the Alps
Nestled in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a dreamscape of snow-capped peaks, glassy lakes, and medieval towns straight out of a storybook. Strict noise regulations after 10 PM might seem odd to newcomers, but this dedication to peace mirrors the country’s near-mystical tranquility. It’s also a haven for financial prosperity, with zero tax on foreign earnings in some cantons.
From the moment I stepped into Zermatt, the Matterhorn loomed like a guardian over the quaint village, its sharp peak cutting through the morning mist. Riding the Glacier Express, I watched as golden meadows transitioned into icy alpine wonderlands, a journey that felt like a moving painting.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-Peak Seasons: Best visited December to March (ski season) or June to September (hiking & lakes).
- Best Ways to Reach & Explore: Zürich, Geneva, and Basel have major airports. The Swiss Rail system is the best way to travel.
- Ideal Duration of Visit: 7–10 days for a full Alpine experience.
- Must-Try Local Experiences: Hiking in the Alps, taking the Glacier Express, visiting Jungfraujoch, indulging in Swiss fondue.
- Budget Considerations: Switzerland is expensive—daily costs range from $150 (budget) to $400+ (luxury).
- Cultural Etiquette Tips: Avoid loud conversations in public; punctuality is deeply valued.
- Photography Opportunities: The Matterhorn at sunrise, Zürich’s old town, and the mirrored reflection of Lake Geneva.
4. Japan – Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Japan is a world unto itself—a land where time-honored customs and cutting-edge technology exist in perfect harmony. From the quiet streets of Kyoto, where kimono-clad figures shuffle past wooden teahouses, to the neon jungle of Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing, Japan offers a sensory overload at every turn. While the country’s past ban on late-night dancing in clubs may seem odd, it reflects Japan’s deep-rooted societal order and etiquette.
Walking through Nara Park, where bowing deer roam freely among cherry blossoms, or standing at the base of Mount Fuji at sunrise, you realize that Japan’s beauty lies in its details. Every cup of matcha is a ritual, every bullet train ride a seamless experience, and every alleyway hides a story waiting to be uncovered.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-Peak Seasons: Best in March–April (cherry blossoms) and October–November (autumn colors).
- Best Ways to Reach & Explore: Narita & Haneda airports for Tokyo; Shinkansen (bullet train) for intercity travel.
- Ideal Duration of Visit: 10–14 days for a complete experience.
- Must-Try Local Experiences: Stay in a ryokan, visit Kyoto’s temples, try sushi at Tsukiji, and soak in an onsen.
- Budget Considerations: Mid-range budget of $100–$200/day; luxury can exceed $400/day.
- Cultural Etiquette Tips: Bow when greeting, remove shoes indoors, avoid speaking loudly in public.
- Photography Opportunities: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Tokyo skyline, and cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle.
5. Norway – The Land of Fjords and Midnight Sun
Norway is a country of extremes—where summer nights stretch endlessly under the midnight sun, and winter brings a frozen silence broken only by the flickering dance of the Northern Lights. It’s a place where nature reigns supreme, with towering fjords, snow-capped peaks, and vast wilderness landscapes that make you feel small in the best way possible. While strict alcohol sales laws (limited hours, high taxes, and state-controlled liquor stores) might catch visitors off guard, this is a small price to pay for living in one of the world’s most prosperous and peaceful nations.
Sailing through the Nærøyfjord, where waterfalls tumble from sheer cliffs, or standing on the edge of Trolltunga, overlooking a surreal blue lake, it’s hard to believe such a place exists outside of a dream. Even in the cities, nature is never far—Oslo’s waterfront is lined with sleek modern buildings, yet just a short ferry ride away, you’ll find yourself on a quiet island with hiking trails and untouched forests. In Bergen, the colorful houses of Bryggen lean against each other, whispering stories of Viking-era trade routes.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-Peak Seasons: Visit in June–August for long daylight hours and warm weather; December–March for Northern Lights and winter activities.
- Best Ways to Reach & Explore: Oslo Gardermoen Airport is the main entry point; the Norwegian Scenic Routes are ideal for road trips. The train from Oslo to Bergen is one of the most stunning railway journeys in the world.
- Ideal Duration of Visit: 7–12 days to explore both cities and nature.
- Must-Try Local Experiences: Hike to Pulpit Rock, take a fjord cruise, visit the Lofoten Islands, try reindeer stew, and relax in a traditional sauna.
- Budget Considerations: Norway is pricey—expect $150–$250/day for mid-range travel, with luxury trips costing much more.
- Cultural Etiquette Tips: Norwegians value personal space and quiet; tipping isn’t expected but appreciated. Alcohol is expensive due to heavy taxation.
- Photography Opportunities: Trolltunga’s epic cliffs, Lofoten’s fishing villages, and the Northern Lights over Tromsø.
6. Monaco – A Millionaire’s Playground with Unwritten Rules
At first glance, Monaco feels like an ultra-glamorous film set—yachts bobbing in the marina, sports cars weaving through winding streets, and the iconic Monte Carlo Casino gleaming under the Riviera sun. But beneath this high-rolling exterior lies an intriguing paradox: Monaco’s own residents are banned from gambling in its famed casino. The law, originally designed to protect locals from financial ruin, adds an unexpected twist to life in this glitzy tax haven.
Imagine strolling through the Exotic Garden of Monaco, where rare succulents cling to dramatic cliffs, offering a breathtaking vantage point over the Mediterranean. Or experiencing the Grand Prix from a private balcony, where the roar of Formula 1 engines echoes through the narrow streets. Despite its reputation for opulence, Monaco is also a haven of quiet escapes—the Rock of Monaco, where the Prince’s Palace stands, offers a glimpse into the country’s history, while Larvotto Beach provides a rare moment of relaxation away from the high-stakes energy of the city.
Key Practical Information
- Best time to visit: May for the Grand Prix, September for a quieter luxury escape
- Getting there: The nearest airport is in Nice, France, just a 30-minute drive or a scenic helicopter transfer away
- Unexpected experiences: Walk through Monaco’s Old Town (Le Rocher) for medieval charm or explore St. Martin Gardens for a peaceful hideaway
- Budget insights: While famously expensive, budget-friendly options include dining at local bakeries and visiting free public gardens
- Etiquette tip: Dress codes are strictly enforced in high-end venues—wearing shorts or flip-flops to the casino? Forget about it
- Best viewpoints: Hike to Tête de Chien, a panoramic spot above Monaco, for stunning sunset views
7. Brunei – The Sultanate of Stillness and Oil Wealth
Brunei is a place where time seems to slow down—where the scent of tropical rain mixes with the quiet hum of luxury cars cruising through Bandar Seri Begawan’s pristine streets. Though its strict Sharia law regulations make headlines, everyday life in this tiny, oil-rich nation is remarkably peaceful. Free healthcare, free education, and zero income tax make it one of the most privileged societies in Asia, yet tourism remains an afterthought.
Venture beyond the golden domes of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, and you’ll find Kampong Ayer, the world’s largest water village. Picture a labyrinth of stilt houses, where wooden walkways stretch across the river, connecting homes, mosques, and schools in a centuries-old way of life. Few visitors experience Brunei’s untamed side—the rainforests of Ulu Temburong National Park, where hornbills soar above misty treetops and riverboats slice through emerald waters.
Key Practical Information
- Best time to visit: January to May for dry-season exploration
- Getting there: Brunei International Airport connects directly to major hubs like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur
- Unexpected experiences: Stay in a floating home in Kampong Ayer, or take a sunrise canopy walk in Ulu Temburong
- Budget perspective: Brunei is affordable—$50–$100 per day covers meals, transport, and mid-range stays
- Cultural considerations: Avoid public displays of affection, respect prayer times, and dress conservatively
- Photography highlights: The golden mosques, water villages, and the untouched Temburong jungle at sunrise
8. Bhutan – The Kingdom That Measures Happiness
Bhutan is a land where happiness is a national priority—literally. The country pioneered Gross National Happiness as a measure of progress, prioritizing well-being over economic growth. It’s also the only nation in the world where tobacco sales are completely banned. This sense of purity extends beyond laws; the entire kingdom embraces a deep spiritual and environmental philosophy.
Picture the winding ascent to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a sacred temple clinging to a sheer cliff at 10,000 feet. The trek is challenging but profoundly rewarding, with prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the distant hum of monks chanting. Unlike mass-tourism destinations, Bhutan’s controlled visa system ensures only a select number of travelers enter each year, preserving its mystical aura.
Key Practical Information
- Best time to visit: March–May for spring blooms, September–November for autumn festivals
- Getting there: The only international airport is in Paro—flights are limited and often breathtakingly scenic
- Unexpected experiences: Attend a Buddhist festival, stay in a monastery guesthouse, or try archery with locals
- Budget insight: A daily visa fee ($200–$250 per day) covers accommodation, food, and transport, making it pricey but inclusive
- Cultural awareness: Dress modestly, avoid touching sacred objects, and always walk clockwise around religious sites
- Best photo moments: Tiger’s Nest Monastery at sunrise, Punakha’s suspension bridge, and prayer flags against the Himalayas
9. Liechtenstein – The Country You Can Rent
Tucked between Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein is so small that you can walk across it in a day—but this microstate punches far above its weight. With one of the highest GDPs per capita in the world and a strong financial sector, it thrives despite its tiny footprint. The quirkiest part? You can literally rent the entire country for private events, a service that includes a ceremonial key handover by the prince himself.
Despite its exclusivity, Liechtenstein remains a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The Eschenberg Trail offers panoramic views of the Rhine Valley, while Vaduz Castle, perched high above the capital, is the perfect fairytale backdrop. Unlike its glamorous neighbor Switzerland, Liechtenstein flies under the radar, making it an offbeat yet luxurious escape.
Key Practical Information
- Best time to visit: June–September for hiking, December–March for Alpine skiing
- Getting there: No airport—fly into Zurich, then take a train or car for a scenic 1.5-hour journey
- Surprising experiences: Explore the Princely Wine Cellars, cycle through the Rhine Valley, or visit the Postage Stamp Museum
- Budget considerations: Though high-income, Liechtenstein offers budget-friendly hiking and small-town charm without Swiss prices
- Cultural tips: Greet locals with a friendly “Grüezi,” and don’t expect to enter Vaduz Castle—it’s still a private royal residence
- Photography spots: Malbun’s mountain scenery, Vaduz Castle at dusk, and the vineyards of the Rhine Valley
