Skip to Content

14 Surprising Things Outlawed in the US But Accepted Around the World

14 Surprising Things Outlawed in the US But Accepted Around the World

Ever feel like America’s rulebook was written by someone with a dartboard? Across the pond or down under, things get even wackier. Let’s take a walk on the wild side of global “Do’s” that are definite “Don’ts” in the Land of the Free. Are you ready to find out just how bizarrely different the world can be?

1. Kinder Surprise Eggs, US vs. Planet Earth

Image Credit: Pexels / Dziana Hasanbekava

America says choking hazard, the world says chocolate with a side of fun. Ever smuggle chocolate eggs just for the thrill?

2. Public Drinking, US vs. Germany

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mix Tape

Strolling through Berlin with a brew is just another Tuesday. Try that in NYC, and it’s ticket time. Cheers to freedom, or nah?

3. Jaywalking, US vs. UK

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kristi Blokhin

In America, jaywalking is the walk of shame. In the UK, it’s just walking. Who knew crossing the street could be so rebellious?

4. Drinking Absinthe, US vs. Czech Republic

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Haletska Olha

America fears the Green Fairy, but in Prague, it’s just another spirit. Ready to chase the fairy on a Euro trip?

5. Hitchhiking, US vs. New Zealand

Image Credit: Pexels / Ekaterina Belinskaya

America sees a thumb, thinks danger. New Zealand sees adventure. Fancy a free ride through Middle-earth?

6. Kinder Eggs, Again

Image Credit: Shutterstock / New Africa

Because they’re worth mentioning twice. America, land of the free, home of the banned chocolate eggs.

7. Plastic Bags, US vs. Rwanda

Image Credit: Shutterstock / ARIMAG

America debates, Rwanda acts. Plastic bags are a no-go. Ever thought your shopping could be so controversial?

8. Raw Milk, US vs. France

Image Credit: Shutterstock / S.SUPHON

In America, raw milk is practically a narcotic. In France, it’s just breakfast. Got milk… vending machines?

9. Online Gambling, US vs. UK

Image Credit: Shutterstock / New Africa

America can’t decide, while the UK bets on open and regulated. Fancy a wager on American indecision?

10. Dual Citizenship, USA vs. The Chill Countries

Image Credit: Shutterstock / maramade

America taxes you worldwide. Other places, like Canada, let you globe-trot without the IRS on your back. Feeling patriotic yet?

11. Cannabis, USA (Federal) vs. Netherlands

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Adam Melnyk

America’s still on the fence, but Amsterdam rolls out the green carpet. High time for a policy change?

12. Pet Ferrets, California vs. The World

Image Credit: Pexels / Verina

California fears ferrets. Elsewhere, they’re just slinky pets. Ever felt like your pet choice was too radical?

13. Euthanasia, USA vs. Belgium

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ground Picture

America debates morality; Belgium offers a choice. A matter of life and death, or just personal freedom?

14. Exploring Antarctica, USA vs. The Adventurous

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eleanor Scriven

Americans face hoops and hurdles. The rest of the world? Just pack and go. Who knew penguins were so exclusive?

Norms Aren’t Always Normal

Image Credit: Shutterstock / fizkes

So, there you have it—a world where American norms are anything but normal. Whether these global green lights make you want to pack your bags or just shake your head, one thing’s clear: the US isn’t just another country; it’s a whole different universe of can’t-dos.

More From The Green Voyage

Top 10 Trending Travel Destinations 2024

6 Essential Banking Apps for International Travel – Managing Your Finances on the Go

Traveling With Kids – 10 Tips to Create Memorable Family Holidays

The post 14 Surprising Things Outlawed in the US But Accepted Around the World first appeared on The Green Voyage.

Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Devin Dygert.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip

Related posts:

20 Quirky American Phrases That Confound Foreigners: From 'Mad Tight' to 'Lagniappe'
Texas Crushes Wyoming in the Cowboy Crown Showdown
18 Underrated US Cities You Must Visit in 2024
Which Global Fashion Weeks Are Worth It? Must-See Events
21 British Cultural Taboos: What Counts as Showing Off in the UK
The 17 Most Expensive Fast Food Items Across America - Tasty Treats With a Hefty Price Tag
18 Unconventional Jobs That Take You Around the World
18 Most Popular Gap Year Destinations
How to Buy a Vacation Home Without the Headache
Where America’s Wealthy Are Buying Golden Visas
Best 25 Quotes to Empower Women on Their Travels
18 Changing Travel Trends of Americans: The Evolution of Wanderlust
20 Epic Waves: Top Surfing Paradises for Thrill-Seekers
20 Top Destinations Americans Are Traveling To
Is Your Wallet Ready for This? The Ultimate Guide to America's Priciest Places to Visit
25 Most Visited States According to Data
14 Smart Money Moves for American Travelers: Build Wealth While Exploring the World
21 Reasons Sane People Detest Camping
It's an Ohio Thing: 21 Weird Habits Cherished by the Buckeye State
15 Challenging U.S. Cities: Navigating Tough Times and Social Struggles as a Traveler
Top 16 Countries Offering Americans Lucrative Job Opportunities Abroad
New Mexico vs. Texas - Which Southwest Gem Wins?
17 Reasons Americans Are Trading Politics for Passports
Remote Work Revolution: Expanding Travel Horizons for American Digital Nomads
20 Essential Tips for Americans Taking the Wheel Abroad for the First Time
The Dakotas: Reasons for This Sibling Rivalry of Epic Proportions
Food Hygiene Horrors: 20 Gross-Out Moments for World Travelers
16 Fun-Filled Workouts for American Travelers: Stay Fit While Exploring!
Why Do Americans Keep Messing Up at Religious Sites? 19 Blunders Revealed
Scary Movie Settings in America: Relive the Freaky Details