Latest news with #SkiVertigo


Daily Mirror
17-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Holiday hotspot where Brits can get fined for hanging laundry on balconies
Hanging laundry on balconies or windows without using designated drying areas is prohibited in Singapore, so make sure you think twice before you get those garments up there Tourists visiting popular destinations should always familiarise themselves with local regulations, especially when it comes to seemingly harmless habits like drying laundry. In Singapore, hanging clothes outside windows or on balconies in public housing estates, known as HDB flats, can lead to unwitting visitors being slapped with fines. Hanging laundry on balconies or windows without using designated drying areas is prohibited. This applies to both residents and tourists staying in such accommodation. The aim is to prevent cluttered façades and avoid safety hazards caused by falling items. First-time violations typically result in warnings or fines of up to SGD 300 — roughly £180. Repeat offenders risk heavier penalties and further enforcement measures, such as the removal of unauthorised drying racks. Ski Vertigo, a travel expert, recently highlighted the importance of understanding these rules before travelling. A statement from the company read: 'These rules are designed to prevent safety hazards, such as items falling from heights, and to maintain the city's clean, orderly environment. Improper laundry drying can cause damage to buildings and obstruct views, which is why enforcement is strict. 'In places like Singapore, it is crucial to read accommodation rules carefully. Small details, such as laundry drying, can have big consequences. Tourists should respect local customs and regulations to ensure a smooth stay.' Laundry habits may seem trivial when travelling, but local laws vary widely, and breaking them can result in unexpected penalties. Improperly hung laundry can also cause disputes with neighbours or building management, potentially spoiling a holiday. There have been cases where tourists were fined or warned simply because they were unaware of local rules. Disputes arising from laundry drying in prohibited areas have led to complaints to housing authorities, creating avoidable conflict. A separate piece of research by Ski Vertigo found that nearly 30% of British holidaymakers receive at least one fine during their trip each year. Often caused by unfamiliar local rules or simple mistakes, these fines can quickly turn an enjoyable holiday into an expensive ordeal. Perhaps unsurprisingly, given the number of Brits who head there each year and the country's love of rules, Spain is the place where UK tourists are currently getting fined the most. Fines in Spain often relate to issues such as littering, smoking in prohibited areas, parking violations, and failure to follow beach rules. Many tourists unintentionally break these regulations because they differ significantly from what is allowed in the UK. Here are some of the laws in Spain you might find yourself accidentally breaking, and the fines you'll face if you do: Leaving rubbish in public spaces: fines up to €600 (£520) Smoking near children or in no-smoking zones: fines range from €30 to €600 (£26 to £520) Parking in restricted areas or without proper permits: fines start at €80 (£70) Ignoring local signage about behaviour on beaches or in parks: fines vary, but can be as much as €200 (£175) Throwing away bus tickets before reaching the destination: €100 (£87) in destinations such as Madrid and Barcelona Drinking in public places: fines vary based on location, but can reach €600 (£521) Pet restrictions: many public spaces have limitations on pets; fines can exceed €500 (£430) for violations Wildlife protection: disturbing wildlife or disrupting protected areas can also result in substantial penalties


Daily Mirror
15-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Spain travel warning for Brit as little-known rule could land them £520 fine
Often caused by unfamiliar local rules or simple mistakes, a holiday fine can quickly turn an enjoyable break into an expensive ordeal. Make sure you know the rules and don't get caught out More and more Brits are being slapped with fines when abroad, with many falling victim in one country in particular. Recent research by Ski Vertigo found that nearly 30% of British holidaymakers receive at least one fine during their trip each year. Often caused by unfamiliar local rules or simple mistakes, these fines can quickly turn an enjoyable holiday into an expensive ordeal. Perhaps unsurprisingly, given the number of Brits who head there each year and the country's love of rules, Spain is the place where UK tourists are currently getting fined the most. Fines in Spain often relate to issues such as littering, smoking in prohibited areas, parking violations, and failure to follow beach rules. Many tourists unintentionally break these regulations because they differ significantly from what is allowed in the UK. Here are some of the laws in Spain you might find yourself accidentally breaking, and the fines you'll face if you do: Leaving rubbish in public spaces: fines up to €600 (£520) Smoking near children or in no-smoking zones: fines range from €30 to €600 (£26 to £520) Parking in restricted areas or without proper permits: fines start at €80 (£70) Ignoring local signage about behaviour on beaches or in parks: fines vary, but can be as much as €200 (£175) Throwing away bus tickets before reaching the destination: €100 (£87) in destinations such as Madrid and Barcelona Drinking in public places: fines vary based on location, but can reach €600 (£521) Pet restrictions: many public spaces have limitations on pets; fines can exceed €500 (£430) for violations Wildlife protection: disturbing wildlife or disrupting protected areas can also result in substantial penalties Ski Vertigo suggests several practical tips for UK tourists to avoid fines while abroad: Always dispose of litter in designated bins Follow local smoking regulations carefully Check parking rules before leaving your vehicle Respect local customs and signage, especially on beaches and in protected areas Michele Massa, CEO of holiday rental agency Ibiza Summer Villas, said: "The increase in travel fines across popular destinations like Spain is a direct response to the growing challenges posed by mass tourism. It's important for travellers to respect local customs and regulations to avoid unexpected costs. "Checking the local government's tourism website or consulting a travel agent can be invaluable. Additionally, packing light and being mindful of your behaviour in public spaces can significantly reduce the risk of incurring fines."


Scottish Sun
12-06-2025
- Scottish Sun
Full list of 22 countries where vaping is completely banned – are you heading to one this summer?
Scroll down for info on the changing laws VAPE ESCAPE Full list of 22 countries where vaping is completely banned – are you heading to one this summer? Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) IF you're an avid vaper and heading off on holiday - it's important to know which countries across the globe have clamped down on the electronic devices. Asia, the Middle East, Africa, South America, Central America and Caribbean are affected by the ban - which may include possession, use, sale, import or advertising. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Travel experts have advised to check the policy of each airport and country Credit: Getty If you're travelling abroad, always check local customs and health ministry websites before risking the wrath of using vapes. According to travel expert Ski Vertigo, it's imperative to understand the varying regulations in order to avoid confiscation, fines or legal trouble. Vapes must be kept in hand luggage only 'Airlines do not allow vaping devices in checked luggage due to the fire risk posed by lithium batteries,' explains Ski Vertigo. 'Keep them on you or in your cabin bag at all times.' Devices should also be charged, as airport security may ask you to power them on to confirm they're safe. Never use or charge vapes on board 'Many people don't realise that vaping on a plane is treated just like smoking—it's illegal,' says Ski Vertigo. 'Even charging the device using the onboard USB port can land you in trouble.' It's worth knowing that vaping in the toilet can result in serious penalties, arrests or being banned from future flights. Vapour can trigger detectors, so there's no chance of using is discreetly. Airport rules vary by country 'In places like Manila or Cebu, travellers can find specific smoking lounges, often IQOS or vape-friendly,' Ski Vertigo notes. Disposable vapes will be banned across UK by next summer to stop Britain's kids from getting hooked 'But in airports like Changi in Singapore or Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok, vaping is strictly forbidden, even inside smoking rooms.' The travel guru advises to check the policy of each airport before you visit to avoid confiscation or fines. Some countries have complete bans on vapes 'Travellers need to be very careful,' warns Ski Vertigo. 'Carrying a vape in places like Singapore, Thailand, Qatar or India could lead to confiscation, fines, or in extreme cases, jail time.' If you're required to pass through customs or security checks in transit, it can be problematic in countries with vape bans. It's advised to leave your device at home. Countries with Full Bans on Vaping Asia India – Complete ban on production, sale, and import of e-cigarettes. – Complete ban on production, sale, and import of e-cigarettes. Thailand – Strict ban on import, export, sale, and possession; violators can face fines or jail time. – Strict ban on import, export, sale, and possession; violators can face fines or jail time. Singapore – Total ban on sale, use, and possession. – Total ban on sale, use, and possession. Nepal – Ban on sale and distribution. – Ban on sale and distribution. Bhutan – Sale and distribution banned. – Sale and distribution banned. North Korea – No official data, but likely prohibited. Middle East Qatar – Sale and use banned. – Sale and use banned. Oman – Ban on import, sale, and advertising. – Ban on import, sale, and advertising. Kuwait – Sale banned (though enforcement varies). Africa Ethiopia – Ban on sale and advertising. – Ban on sale and advertising. Gambia – Sale and use banned. – Sale and use banned. Mauritius – Sale and import banned. – Sale and import banned. Seychelles – Initially banned, now regulated (so check for updates). – Initially banned, now regulated (so check for updates). Uganda – Sale banned under tobacco control law. South America Brazil – Sale, import, and advertising banned. – Sale, import, and advertising banned. Argentina – Sale and import banned. – Sale and import banned. Uruguay – Sale and advertising banned. – Sale and advertising banned. Venezuela – Sale and advertising banned. Central America & Caribbean Mexico – Recently banned sale and marketing of vaping products. – Recently banned sale and marketing of vaping products. Panama – Sale and advertising banned. – Sale and advertising banned. Suriname – Sale banned. – Sale banned. Dominican Republic – Ban on import and sale (enforcement varies). Stay safe with basic travel tips 'Store your batteries properly, keep your device visible in hand luggage, and never use it mid-flight,' Ski Vertigo advises. 'Also, check local laws before you fly—it only takes five minutes and could save you a lot of stress.' Check mobile apps and airline websites to keep on top of up-to-date guidance. For longer trips, it's suggested that nicotine alternatives such as gum or patches are the best way to travel safely and without hassle.


The Irish Sun
12-06-2025
- The Irish Sun
Full list of 22 countries where vaping is completely banned – are you heading to one this summer?
IF you're an avid vaper and heading off on holiday - it's important to know which countries across the globe have clamped down on the electronic devices. Asia, the Middle East, Africa, South America, Central America and Caribbean are affected by the ban - which may include possession, use, sale, import or advertising. Advertisement 2 Travel experts have advised to check the policy of each airport and country Credit: Getty If you're travelling abroad, always check local customs and health ministry websites before risking the wrath of using vapes. According to travel expert , it's imperative to understand the varying regulations in order to avoid confiscation, fines or legal trouble. Vapes must be kept in hand luggage only 'Airlines do not allow vaping devices in checked luggage due to the fire risk posed by lithium batteries,' explains Ski Vertigo. 'Keep them on you or in your cabin bag at all times.' Advertisement Read more Devices should also be charged, as airport security may ask you to power them on to confirm they're safe. Never use or charge vapes on board 'Many people don't realise that vaping on a plane is treated just like smoking—it's illegal,' says Ski Vertigo. 'Even charging the device using the onboard USB port can land you in trouble.' It's worth knowing that vaping in the toilet can result in serious penalties, arrests or being banned from future flights. Advertisement Most read in The Sun Live Blog Breaking Vapour can trigger detectors, so there's no chance of using is discreetly. Airport rules vary by country 'In places like Manila or Cebu, travellers can find specific smoking lounges, often IQOS or vape-friendly,' Ski Vertigo notes. Disposable vapes will be banned across UK by next summer to stop Britain's kids from getting hooked 'But in airports like Changi in Singapore or Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok, vaping is strictly forbidden, even inside smoking rooms.' The travel guru advises to check the policy of each airport before you visit to avoid confiscation or fines. Advertisement Some countries have complete bans on vapes 'Travellers need to be very careful,' warns Ski Vertigo. 'Carrying a vape in places like Singapore, Thailand, If you're required to pass through customs or security checks in transit, it can be problematic in countries with vape bans. It's advised to leave your device at home. Countries with Full Bans on Vaping Asia India – Complete ban on production, sale, and import of e-cigarettes. Thailand – Strict ban on import, export, sale, and possession; violators can face fines or jail time. Singapore – Total ban on sale, use, and possession. Nepal – Ban on sale and distribution. Bhutan – Sale and distribution banned. North Korea – No official data, but likely prohibited. Middle East Qatar – Sale and use banned. Oman – Ban on import, sale, and advertising. Kuwait – Sale banned (though enforcement varies). Africa Ethiopia – Ban on sale and advertising. Gambia – Sale and use banned. Mauritius – Sale and import banned. Seychelles – Initially banned, now regulated (so check for updates). Uganda – Sale banned under tobacco control law. South America Brazil – Sale, import, and advertising banned. Argentina – Sale and import banned. Uruguay – Sale and advertising banned. Venezuela – Sale and advertising banned. Central America & Caribbean Mexico – Recently banned sale and marketing of vaping products. Panama – Sale and advertising banned. Suriname – Sale banned. Dominican Republic – Ban on import and sale (enforcement varies). Stay safe with basic travel tips 'Store your batteries properly, keep your device visible in hand luggage, and never use it mid-flight,' Advertisement 'Also, check local laws before you fly—it only takes five minutes and could save you a lot of stress.' Check mobile apps and airline websites to keep on top of up-to-date guidance. For longer trips, it's suggested that nicotine alternatives such as gum or patches are the best way to travel safely and without hassle. 2 Vaping is now banned in 22 countries Credit: Getty Advertisement


The Sun
12-06-2025
- The Sun
Full list of 22 countries where vaping is completely banned – are you heading to one this summer?
IF you're an avid vaper and heading off on holiday - it's important to know which countries across the globe have clamped down on the electronic devices. Asia, the Middle East, Africa, South America, Central America and Caribbean are affected by the ban - which may include possession, use, sale, import or advertising. 2 If you're travelling abroad, always check local customs and health ministry websites before risking the wrath of using vapes. According to travel expert Ski Vertigo, it's imperative to understand the varying regulations in order to avoid confiscation, fines or legal trouble. Vapes must be kept in hand luggage only 'Airlines do not allow vaping devices in checked luggage due to the fire risk posed by lithium batteries,' explains Ski Vertigo. 'Keep them on you or in your cabin bag at all times.' Devices should also be charged, as airport security may ask you to power them on to confirm they're safe. Never use or charge vapes on board 'Many people don't realise that vaping on a plane is treated just like smoking—it's illegal,' says Ski Vertigo. 'Even charging the device using the onboard USB port can land you in trouble.' It's worth knowing that vaping in the toilet can result in serious penalties, arrests or being banned from future flights. Vapour can trigger detectors, so there's no chance of using is discreetly. Airport rules vary by country 'In places like Manila or Cebu, travellers can find specific smoking lounges, often IQOS or vape-friendly,' Ski Vertigo notes. Disposable vapes will be banned across UK by next summer to stop Britain's kids from getting hooked 'But in airports like Changi in Singapore or Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok, vaping is strictly forbidden, even inside smoking rooms.' The travel guru advises to check the policy of each airport before you visit to avoid confiscation or fines. Some countries have complete bans on vapes 'Travellers need to be very careful,' warns Ski Vertigo. 'Carrying a vape in places like Singapore, Thailand, Qatar or India could lead to confiscation, fines, or in extreme cases, jail time.' If you're required to pass through customs or security checks in transit, it can be problematic in countries with vape bans. It's advised to leave your device at home. Countries with Full Bans on Vaping Asia India – Complete ban on production, sale, and import of e-cigarettes. Thailand – Strict ban on import, export, sale, and possession; violators can face fines or jail time. Singapore – Total ban on sale, use, and possession. Nepal – Ban on sale and distribution. Bhutan – Sale and distribution banned. North Korea – No official data, but likely prohibited. Middle East Qatar – Sale and use banned. Oman – Ban on import, sale, and advertising. Kuwait – Sale banned (though enforcement varies). Africa Ethiopia – Ban on sale and advertising. Gambia – Sale and use banned. Mauritius – Sale and import banned. Seychelles – Initially banned, now regulated (so check for updates). Uganda – Sale banned under tobacco control law. South America Brazil – Sale, import, and advertising banned. Argentina – Sale and import banned. Uruguay – Sale and advertising banned. Venezuela – Sale and advertising banned. Central America & Caribbean Mexico – Recently banned sale and marketing of vaping products. Panama – Sale and advertising banned. Suriname – Sale banned. Dominican Republic – Ban on import and sale (enforcement varies). Stay safe with basic travel tips 'Store your batteries properly, keep your device visible in hand luggage, and never use it mid-flight,' Ski Vertigo advises. 'Also, check local laws before you fly—it only takes five minutes and could save you a lot of stress.' Check mobile apps and airline websites to keep on top of up-to-date guidance. For longer trips, it's suggested that nicotine alternatives such as gum or patches are the best way to travel safely and without hassle. 2