Etiquette & taboos

Understanding local customs is where a journey begins. Find the topics that matter to you and feel at ease wherever you go.

8 rules found

Essential restrictionsSafetyPlace-specific guidance · Jordan

Jordan: stay out of canyons in the rainy season

Do

From November to March, check the weather before entering a canyon, and wait at least a day after heavy rain
If a flash flood comes, move to higher ground

Don’t

Entering a canyon after heavy rain
Trying to wade through floodwater

In the rainy season, canyons can flood suddenly and are very dangerous; call 911 for rescue.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Jordan travel advice

Essential restrictionsEveryday mannersPlace-specific guidance · Jordan

Jordan: no drinking in the street

Do

Drink in bars, hotels or private homes

Don’t

Drinking in the street

It is illegal.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Jordan travel advice

Essential restrictionsEveryday mannersPlace-specific guidance · Jordan

Jordan: don't stay in Petra outside opening hours

Do

Enter and leave at the park's set hours
If you have questions about ticket prices or extra charges, ask at the visitor centre first

Don’t

Staying in Petra Archaeological Park after closing

You may be arrested and prosecuted; visitors have been locked in the park overnight.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Jordan travel advice

Essential restrictionsEveryday mannersPlace-specific guidance · United Arab Emirates

UAE: no kissing in public

Do

Show restraint in public

Don’t

Kissing in public

You can be arrested for it.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: United Arab Emirates travel advice

Essential restrictionsEveryday mannersPlace-specific guidance · United Arab Emirates

UAE: swearing and rude gestures are illegal

Do

Be polite when dealing with police and officials

Don’t

Swearing or making rude gestures (including online)

Treated as an obscene act; can lead to prison or deportation.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: United Arab Emirates travel advice

Essential restrictionsPublic transportPlace-specific guidance · United Arab Emirates

UAE: cross the road only at pedestrian crossings

Do

Cross at designated pedestrian crossings and watch for traffic

Don’t

Jaywalking

Illegal; you can be fined or even jailed. Even at zebra crossings, cars often don't stop.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: United Arab Emirates travel advice

Essential restrictionsEntryPlace-specific guidance · Türkiye

Türkiye: don't buy or take away antiquities

Do

Before buying old items, check whether they may be exported

Don’t

Buying antiquities or taking them out of the country

Illegal; can bring a fine and 5 to 12 years in prison.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Turkey travel advice

Essential restrictionsEveryday mannersPlace-specific guidance · Türkiye

Türkiye: you must carry photo ID

Do

Carry your passport and cooperate with police checks

Don’t

Going out without any photo ID

Not carrying photo ID is illegal; checks are common in Istanbul and elsewhere.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Turkey travel advice