Etiquette & taboos

Take five minutes to read this before you go. We sort local rules into three levels: red lines that are illegal or can get you refused entry, taboos that are legal but easily offend locals, and good manners that show respect. Every rule has a source and is marked as verified or not.

Red lineIllegal, or can get you refused entry · 85 rules TabooNot illegal, but easily offends locals · 23 rules Good mannersRespect local ways and earn a smile · 5 rules

Red linePublic transportUnited Arab Emirates

UAE: cross the road only at pedestrian crossings

Cross at designated pedestrian crossings and watch for traffic

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

Red linePublic transportUnited Kingdom

London Underground: tap in and tap out

Tap your Oyster card or bank card on the yellow reader both on entry and exit, even if the gates are open
At interchange stations with mid-route readers, tap as instructed

Tapping in but not out, or not tapping before boarding

If you miss a tap you are charged the maximum fare; if an inspector finds you travelling without tapping, you may be fined or prosecuted.

Not yet verifiedSource: Wikipedia: Oyster card

Red linePublic transportItaly

Italy: validate your ticket before boarding

Validate your ticket in the machine before using public transport

Travelling with an unvalidated ticket

Inspectors will fine you on the spot.

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