When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to their laws. Your government is very limited in what it can do for you if you have violated the laws of the country you are visiting. At best, you will be kicked out of the country, at worst, you will be fighting over rat meat with your cellmate, Bubba (see right). The simple rule is this: Don't do anything while traveling that you could not legally do at home. Also, check with your guide book on unique laws pertaining to that country. For example, in Thailand it is unlawful to make disparaging remarks about Buddha, the King, Queen or any other member of the royal family. Some other things to be extra aware of include:

[to top]

Prostitution

In many parts of the world, prostitution is a big industry. But if the police catch you with a minor, you could end up doing some serious time, not to mention that you are putting yourself at risk of theft, or contracting AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. But if you decide to visit the red-light district, do so with eyes wide open, sober, while conducting yourself within the permissible boundaries of that business community. (Oh, and it might be wise for you to view the Negotiating Tips section of QDG.)

[to top]

Drugs

The best advice is, “don't.” Although you may be traveling into areas where the enforcement of drug laws is lax, and may witness fellow travelers indulging in such substances as cannabis and hallucinogenic mushrooms, you need to remind yourself that this is an unnecessary risk you can do without.

[More on this topic in the Full Version of Quit Dreaming & Go!]

[to top]

Boozing it Up

[More on this topic in the Full Version of Quit Dreaming & Go!]

[to top]

Bribes

Most of us from western countries find it unconscionable to offer a bribe or illegal gratuity to anyone. And though I do not encourage this practice, it is a reality in many countries that you should be aware of. Be it a cop or the guy at the train station ticket counter who is finding it difficult to locate you a seat on the next train out, by offering a bribe you are exposing yourself both to risk and success.

[More on this topic in the Full Version of Quit Dreaming & Go!]

[to top]

Black Market

As stated earlier in the Changing Money section, the "black market" of developing countries is a common place to do business.

[More on this topic in the Full Version of Quit Dreaming & Go!]