The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

BY  Ankita Mar 22, 2024

Savannah, Georgia, is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, you will find plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in this charming Southern destination. But if you are looking for a unique way to experience Savannah, why not visit some of its amazing museums? Museums in Savannah are not just boring buildings filled with dusty artifacts. They are vibrant and interactive spaces that showcase the rich and diverse culture, history, and creativity of the city and its people. From colonial times to the present day, from fine art to folk art, from military history to maritime history, you will find museums in Savannah that cater to your interests and curiosity. Top Museums in Savannah That You Must Visit in 2024! There is something magical about museums. It is a testament to the fact that humanity has lived and thrived. Most importantly, it is a celebration of all the struggles that have made us who we are. It is a place where time stops for a little. Or we are sent back in time. I love going to museums, and that is why I feel glad to be able to list some of the best museums that I went to during my stay in Savannah. In this article, I will introduce you to the 15 best museums in Savannah that you should not miss on your next trip. I am also going to give you some tips on planning your itinerary and making the most of your time in this beautiful city. So, get ready to travel back in time and explore Savannah's top museums! Here are the best museums in Savannah that you MUST visit while you are in the city: 1. Savannah History Museum If you want to learn about the history of Savannah from its founding in 1733 to the present day, the Savannah History Museum is the place to go. Located in the historic Central of Georgia Railway passenger station, the museum features exhibits that cover various aspects of Savannah's past, such as the American Revolution, the Civil War, the cotton industry, the railroad, and the movie industry. You can also see artifacts and memorabilia from famous Savannahians, such as singer Johnny Mercer, writer Flannery O'Connor, and Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low. Don't forget to check out the bench from the movie Forrest Gump, which was filmed in Savannah. 2. Jepson Center for the Arts The Jepson Center for the Arts is a stunning modern building that houses the contemporary art collection of the Telfair Museums, the oldest public art museum in the South. The Jepson Center showcases works by local, regional, national, and international artists, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and video. You can also enjoy rotating exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and educational programs at the center. If you have kids, they will love the ArtZeum, an interactive gallery that encourages creativity and exploration. 3. Savannah Museum of Art The Savannah Museum of Art is another branch of the Telfair Museums, located in the historic Telfair Academy, a former mansion built in 1819. The museum displays a collection of American and European art from the 19th and 20th centuries, including works by impressionists, realists, and abstract artists. You can also admire the elegant architecture and furnishings of the building, which was designed by William Jay, one of the first professionally trained architects in America.  4. Georgia State Railroad Museum If you are a fan of trains, you will love the Georgia State Railroad Museum, which is located in the former Central of Georgia Railway Savannah Shops and Terminal Facilities. The museum is a National Historic Landmark and features the largest collection of historic railroad structures in the country. You can see and climb aboard various locomotives, cars, and rolling stock, some of which date back to the 1850s. You can also take a guided tour of the site, watch demonstrations of steam and diesel engines, and even ride a train on a short loop track. 5. Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is dedicated to the maritime history of Savannah and the Atlantic coast. The museum is housed in the William Scarbrough House, a neoclassical mansion built in 1819 for one of the principal owners of the Savannah, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean. The museum displays models, paintings, and artifacts of various ships, from sailing vessels to steamships, that played a role in Savannah's trade, commerce, and defense. You can also enjoy the beautiful garden behind the house, which features native plants and fountains. 6. Pin Point Heritage Museum The Pin Point Heritage Museum is a hidden gem that celebrates the history and culture of the Gullah/Geechee people, who are descendants of enslaved Africans that settled along the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. The museum is located in the former A.S. Varn & Son Oyster and Crab Factory, which was the main employer of the Pin Point community for over 60 years. The museum tells the story of the people, the place, and the industry that shaped their lives, through exhibits, oral histories, and demonstrations. You can also sample some of the delicious seafood that the community is known for. 7. SCAD Museum of Art The SCAD Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum that showcases the work of students, faculty, and alumni of the Savannah College of Art and Design, as well as renowned artists from around the world. The museum is located in a former railroad depot that was renovated and expanded with a striking glass facade. The museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions of various media, such as painting, sculpture, photography, fashion, and film. You can also attend lectures, screenings, and performances at the museum. 8. Savannah Children's Museum The Savannah Children's Museum is a fun and educational place for kids of all ages. The museum is located in the old Central of Georgia Railway Carpentry Shop, which was transformed into an outdoor playground with over a dozen exhibits and activities. Kids can explore, create, and learn through interactive stations, such as the sensory garden, the maze, the climbing wall, the water pump, and the giant Lego blocks. The museum also offers programs and events for families, such as storytime, crafts, and festivals. 9. Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum is a museum that honors the legacy of the civil rights movement in Savannah and beyond. The museum is named after Dr. Ralph Mark Gilbert, who was the leader of the NAACP in Savannah and a key figure in the desegregation of the city. The museum features exhibits that chronicle the history of the struggle for racial equality and social justice, from slavery to the present day. You can see photographs, documents, artifacts, and videos that depict the events and people that shaped the movement, such as the sit-ins, the marches, the boycotts, and the leaders. 10. Webb Military Museum The Webb Military Museum is a museum that displays a private collection of military memorabilia from the American Civil War to the present day. The museum is owned and operated by Gary Webb, a retired military officer and avid collector. The museum features uniforms, medals, weapons, flags, helmets, and other items that belonged to soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines from various wars and conflicts. You can also see personal stories and letters from the men and women who served their country. 11. American Prohibition Museum The American Prohibition Museum is a museum that takes you back to the era of the 18th Amendment, which banned the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol in the United States from 1920 to 1933. The museum features interactive exhibits, wax figures, and artifacts that tell the story of the prohibition, from the temperance movement to the speakeasies, from the bootleggers to the gangsters, from the flappers to the lawmen. You can also visit the speakeasy bar, where you can enjoy a drink and listen to live music. 12. Savannah African Art Museum The Savannah African Art Museum is a museum that showcases a collection of over 1,000 pieces of African art, representing 22 countries and over 130 cultures. The museum is located in a former Catholic convent and school, which was renovated and decorated with African motifs. The museum displays sculptures, masks, textiles, jewelry, and other objects that reflect the diversity and beauty of African art and culture. You can also learn about the history, meaning, and symbolism of each piece from the knowledgeable docents. 13. Massie Heritage Center The Massie Heritage Center is a museum and educational center that preserves and interprets the history and architecture of Savannah. The center is located in the former Massie School, which was built in 1856 and is the oldest public-school building in Georgia. The center features exhibits and programs that explore various aspects of Savannah's heritage, such as the colonial era, the Victorian era, the civil rights era, and the urban renewal era. You can also see models and maps of the city, as well as a restored classroom from the 19th century. 14. Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum The Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum is a museum that honors the men and women of the Eighth Air Force, which was one of the largest and most powerful air forces in history. The museum is located near the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, where the Eighth Air Force was activated in 1942. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and aircraft that tell the story of the brave and heroic missions of the Eighth Air Force during World War II, the Cold War, and beyond. You can also see the B-17 Flying Fortress, the B-24 Liberator, the P-51 Mustang, and other planes that flew in the skies of Europe and Asia. 15. Wormsloe Historic Site The Wormsloe Historic Site is a museum and park that preserves the estate of Noble Jones, one of the original settlers of Georgia and a close associate of James Oglethorpe, the founder of Savannah. The site features the ruins of Jones' tabby house, which is the oldest standing structure in Savannah, as well as a colonial life area, a museum, and a nature trail. You can also see the iconic avenue of live oaks, one of the city's most photographed scenes.  How to Plan Your Itinerary for the Museums in Savannah? Now that you know the best museums in Savannah, you might be wondering how to fit them all in your schedule. Here are some tips on how to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this beautiful city: Day 1 Start with the Savannah History Museum, which will give you an overview of the city's past and present. From there, you can walk to the nearby Georgia State Railroad Museum, the Savannah Children's Museum, and the SCAD Museum of Art, which are all located in the same complex. Next, head to the Telfair Museums, which consist of the Jepson Center for the Arts and the Savannah Museum of Art. You can also visit the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, which is another branch of the Telfair Museums and a historic landmark that showcases the life of the wealthy and the enslaved in the 19th century. After that, you can explore the historic district of Savannah, which is full of charming squares, parks, monuments, and buildings. You can also hop on a trolley or a carriage tour, which will take you to some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in the city, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Forsyth Park, the Mercer Williams House, and the Bonaventure Cemetery. Day 2 For the next day, you can venture outside the downtown area and visit some of the museums that are located in the outskirts of the city, such as the Wormsloe Historic Site, the Pin Point Heritage Museum, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, the Webb Military Museum, and the American Prohibition Museum. You can also take a short drive to the nearby Tybee Island, where you can enjoy the beach, the lighthouse, and the Fort Pulaski National Monument. Day 3 On the last day, you can visit the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, located near the airport and a must-see for aviation and military enthusiasts. You can also stop by the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum and the Savannah African Art Museum, both located in the historic district and worth visiting. Why You Should Visit Savannah in 2024? Savannah is a city that is always worth visiting, but especially in 2024, when it will celebrate its 300th anniversary. The city will host a series of events and festivities throughout the year, such as parades, concerts, fireworks, exhibitions, and more. You can also expect to see some new and improved attractions and facilities, such as the Savannah Riverwalk, the Savannah Arena, and the Savannah Convention Center. Savannah will also host some major events and conferences, such as the G20 Summit, the World Economic Forum, and the Savannah Film Festival. Wrapping It Up! Savannah is a city that is rich in history, culture, and creativity. It is also a city that has some of the best museums in the country, which will take you on a journey through time and space. Whether you are interested in art, history, nature, or anything in between, you will find museums in Savannah that will satisfy your curiosity and inspire your imagination. If you wanted to know about eth best museums in Savannah, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and queries in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Read Also: Atlanta To Savannah: A Scenic Road Trip Adventure That You Can’t Miss! From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah Explore The Top 15 Free Museums In DC! Must Visit Museums Understand More About The Vatican’s Museums

BY  Ankita Jun 6, 2023

Are you thinking about visiting Montana National Parks but are not really sure about which ones should you visit while you are there? Well, there is no need for you to worry. I have you covered! There are a number of national parks that are located in the United States. Whether you want to check out the national parks in Wyoming or Zion, the list is endless. But if you want to try out a new place, Montana might just be the right one for you! In this article, I will be focusing extensively on the best national parks in Montana that you must visit when you are in the states. So, if that is something that you want to know, keep reading the article till the end… Best Montana National Parks That You Must Visit! The fourth-largest state in the US, Montana, lies in the northwest of the country on the border with Canada. It is pretty sparsely populated. It boasts delightfully diverse landscapes. The west is very mountainous. While the east’s endless plains and prairies are only occasionally punctuated by breathtaking badlands and bluffs. Hidden away among its wild and remote realms are incredible wildlife species. There are moose, grizzly bears, and mountain lions all inhabiting its numerous national parks and state parks. Are you planning to travel to the States and Montana, to be specific? You need to check out this list of the best Montana National Parks that you need to visit in 2023: 1. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area sprawls over a vast zone and straddles both Montana and Wyoming. It is home to stunning scenery and landscapes. The area is made up of two delightfully distinct districts. It is a treat to explore, with a wealth of recreational activities to try out. The main feature of the park is the breathtaking Bighorn Canyon. It towers over the large lake and roaring river of the same name. Its craggy cliffs form a formidable backdrop to the tranquil waters below, which offer fantastic fishing, kayaking, and boating. Hiking and camping are very popular. However, the area also has a range of archaeological and cultural treasures to check out. As well as being home to historic ranches, a third of its area is located on the Crow Indian Reservation. Part of the park is a range for wild horses. Visitors can learn all about its history, geology, and nature at one of the site’s two centers. 2. Big Hole National Battlefield The Big Hole National Battlefield is the location of the battle that took place on August 9th and 10th during Nez Perce Flight of 1877. By early August, over 800 nimí·pu· (Nez Perce) and over 2,000 horses were passing peacefully through the Bitterroot Valley after crossing Lolo Pass into Montana. Their leaders believed the military would not pursue them even though many had premonitions warning otherwise. When the nimí·pu· arrived at ?ıckumcılé.lıkpe (known today as Big Hole National Battlefield) on August 7th, they did not know the military was close behind them. On the morning of August 9, 1877, U.S. troops surprised the sleeping nimí·pu· with a dawn attack on the encampment. And that is where and when everything happened that made this area a national historic place. The park's visitor center offers museum exhibits, a film, and a book sales area. The award-winning film Weet'uciklitukt: There's No Turning Back, Battle at Big Hole provides an introduction to the Nez Perce Flight of 1877 and the battle that took place at this site. The film is shown throughout the day and is close-captioned. Audio and braille guides are available upon request. Big Hole National Battlefield is one of the 38 sites that make up the Nez Perce National Historical Park. Together they tell the story of the nimí·pu· (Nez Perce). These sites are spread over much of the traditional homeland of the nimí·pu· in present-day Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Staff are located here at the Big Hole National Battlefield, as well as at the visitor center in Spalding, ID, and at the Bear Paw Battlefield. To visit all of the park sites could take a substantial amount of time and cover many hundreds of miles. 3. Glacier National Park Home to stunning scenery, landscapes, and nature, the gorgeous Glacier National Park can be found in the northwest of Montana on the border with Canada. Founded in 1910, it protects a vast swathe of unspoiled wilderness and fully deserves its nickname, the ‘Crown of the Continent’. Very mountainous, it is home to two rugged ranges, with vast valleys and rocky ravines left behind by the gigantic glaciers after which the park is named. Dotted about these damaged yet delightful landscapes are over 130 twinkling turquoise lakes, with gorgeous waterfalls and sparkling streams found here and there. As over half of the park is coated in verdant forests, it is a great place to go wildlife watching with moose, mountain goats and grizzly bears inhabiting its isolated areas. With scenic trails weaving their way amidst the towering trees and mountains and cozy campsites to stay at, Glacier National Park really is one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in the whole of the States. 4. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site Next on the list of the best Montana National Parks is Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site. Between 1828 and 1867, Fort Union was the most important fur trade post on the Upper Missouri River. Here, the Assiniboine and six other Northern Plains Tribes exchanged buffalo robes and smaller furs for goods from around the world, including cloth, guns, blankets, and beads. A bastion of peaceful coexistence, the post annually traded over 25,000 buffalo robes and $100,000 in merchandise. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site and its visitor center in the Bourgeois House are open daily throughout the year except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Days. The Trade House, including the trade room and the clerk's office, is open seasonally. There are a number of things that you can do here. One of them is visiting the Fort Union’s Trade House, which was one of the most important buildings at Fort Union. It was in the Reception Room where Tribal leaders met with the American Fur Company Traders to discuss the terms of the trade and also where stories were told, and small feasts were held. Apart from that, you can also plan a great trip with your kids as they can become a Jr. Ranger and Jr. Trader at this historic National Park. 5. Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site Located almost equidistant between Missoula and Bozeman is the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, which commemorates the cattle industry and cowboy culture of the American West. Lying on the banks of the charming Cottonwood Creek, this colossal living history ranch now offers a fascinating look into the frontier cattle era that shaped the nation. Founded in 1862 by the Canadian fur trader Johnny Grant, the ranch was later bought as well as expanded by the successful cattle baron Conrad Kohrs. At its zenith, over 50,000 head of cattle roamed about his ranch, which sprawled as far as the eye could see. Nowadays, visitors can tour around its historic buildings and see the ranch in operation. Blacksmiths as well as cowboys use techniques that would have been used in the 19th century. 6. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument Lying about an hour’s drive to the east of Billings, this moving national monument and memorial commemorates the famous Battle of Little Bighorn. It was here on June 25 and 26, 1876, that General Custer made his ‘last stand’ and lost his life alongside many of his cavalry at the hands of the local Native Americans. At the sprawling battle site, visitors can learn all about the epic encounter that came to symbolize the clash of cultures. The Native Americans fought to protect their nomadic way of life and stop themselves from being forced onto reservations. It was a short but momentary victory for the Native Americans against the ever-expanding advances of the US Army. Through interesting and informative tours, you’ll learn all about the battle as well as its aftermath. Moreover, you will also learn about the legendary Lakota leaders Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull as well. In addition, you can visit the numerous markers and memorials scattered about what is now part of the Crow Indian Reservation. 7. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Also considered to be one of the best national parks in Oregon, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through the homelands of more than 60 Tribal nations. It follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the Pacific Ocean. Follow the trail to find the people, places, and stories that make up the complex legacy of the expedition. Boasting lots of large limestone caverns and stunning stalactites as well as stalagmites, Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park makes for a spectacular sight. Located just under an hour’s drive to the northwest of Bozeman, it is one of the most popular parks to visit in the state. First documented by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, after which it is named, the caves cover a substantial underground area. It has illuminating tours that take you around its most fascinating features. Lit up by flickering candles and fairy lights, its subterranean sculptures and formations are a treat to explore. Above ground is equally delightful. The state park’s lovely woods and shimmering streams lend themselves perfectly to hiking. It also offers mountain biking, and camping, with fishing and canoeing also on offer. 8. Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail Glacial Lake Missoula, a 3,000 square-mile body of water encircling Missoula, Montana, was a result of an ice dam in northern Idaho. It happened at the conclusion of the last Ice Age, between 18,000 and 15,000 years ago. Floodwater came out when the dam burst, traveling across Washington, Oregon, and the Columbia River before reaching the Pacific Ocean. The Ice Age Floods affected the people and terrain of the Pacific Northwest, profoundly. The majority of geologists thought that glaciers and streams slowly eroded rock formations to create Washington's Channelled Scabland. Geologist J Harlen Bretz postulated that cataclysmic floods were responsible for the formation of the Channelled Scabland after finding geologic data that contradicted this theory. Bretz's theory was initially mocked, but it was later proven correct thanks to new technology like satellite photography. By the 1970s, everyone agreed that the Ice Age Floods were to blame for the ravaged terrain of the northwest United States. Today, the terrain is littered with remnants of these Ice Age Floods. It includes massive basalt coulees, dry falls, and big boulders. They have traveled hundreds of miles, high water lines, as well as tremendous current ripples. The Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail includes spectacular examples of cataclysmic flood geology, breathtaking landscapes, and locations for scientific study. 9. Lone Pine State Park Lying just to the southwest of Kalispell is the lovely Lone Pine State Park. It looms over the city and Flathead Valley. As it is home to wonderful nature and scenic trails, it is very popular with locals and tourists. It also has plenty of recreational activities on offer. Founded in 1941, the park boasts delightful landscapes, with flower-filled meadows and lush forests coating its hilly confines. Reaching 1,110 meters in height, there are more than ten kilometers of trails to explore. It also has fabulous vistas visible from its upper reaches. Besides hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding along its peaceful paths, visitors can go wildlife watching and birdwatching. In addition, there is an archery range and volleyball court to try out. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are on offer in the winter months. 10. Bannack State Park Once a thriving mining town, Bannack became a ghost town as the seams of glittering gold ran out, and so did the prospectors moved on. Set in a scenic yet remote spot in the southwest of the state, the eerie yet enticing ghost town is now under protection as part of a state park. Nestled away among Montana’s majestic mountains are more than 50 decaying buildings for visitors to explore, with log cabins lying alongside a school, hotel, and Methodist church. Although they have long been abandoned to the elements, most of them are in remarkably good condition. As such, it makes for an unsettling experience wandering around the empty streets. One of the best times to visit is in July, during the ‘Bannack Days.’ Re-enactors transform the town into what it would have been like during the gold rush. The rest of the year, visitors can take tours of Bannack or rent bikes and set off hiking from the nearby campsite. Read More: Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina 11. Giant Springs State Park Giant Springs State Park lies just to the northeast of Great Falls on the banks of the Missouri River. It has sparkling springs all around, from which it derives its name. It is a top-rated place with many recreational activities on offer. That is mostly due to its proximity to the city and its peaceful and picturesque nature. Blackfeet Nation has used Giant Springs for centuries. Moreover, it is one of the largest freshwater springs in the States. First described by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, its waters originate in the Little Belt Mountains. It took around 3,000 years to travel the 100 kilometers underground to surface again at the springs. Besides visiting the springs, visitors can wander around the park’s gorgeous green spaces. They explore the scenic shoreline of the river. As well as its picnic areas and playgrounds, it also offers some great fishing, boating, and birdwatching. 12. Yellowstone National Park Last but definitely not least, we have another immensely famous option. It is a very popular and widely visited Yellowstone National Park. Most of Yellowstone lies within the wilds of Wyoming. Some picturesque parts of the popular park sprawl over into Idaho and Montana. An absolutely incredible place, it is awash with astounding natural sights. There are mighty mountain towers above sweeping valleys, verdant forests, and roaring rivers. The oldest national park in the world came to be in 1872, delighting and dazzling countless generations ever since. Its diverse and dramatic scenery is spectacular. However, it is most known for its more than 10,000 geysers as well as hot springs. There are also thermal features dotting its craggy confines. Of these, one of the most popular is the Grand Prismatic Spring due to its kaleidoscopic colors. Old Faithful never fails to amaze with the staggering size and scale of its spurting spring. Moreover, you cannot miss out on Yellowstone National Park. It has lots of wildlife residing within its remote realms and exquisite hiking, camping, and boating on offer. Wrapping It Up! In case you were searching for the best as well as must-visit Montana national parks, I hope that this article has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your queries and suggestions in the box below. Read Also: A Guide To National Parks In Wisconsin A Complete Guide For National Parks In Illinois Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know

BY  Sibashree Jul 6, 2026

In an age where the world is more connected than ever before, it is all too easy to forget that there are clear legal distinctions between regions of the globe.  Quite simply, what might be tolerated or perfectly legal in the West could be the polar opposite when it comes to interpreting the same rules of engagement in Asia. Naturally enough, every country has its own sets of rules and standards that it expects its citizens and visitors to abide by.  It can be a case of trying to stay on the right side of the law in an online trading environment, such as finding the best gaming payment solutions that recognize these regional disparities or something else.  In this article, I will make sure that you or any first-time traveler does not get into trouble due to the weird laws in Asia.  Here is a look at some of the most interesting and unique laws that set this region apart from other continents. What Are The Weird Laws In Asia Every First-Time Traveler Must Know?  From dressing respectfully to being mindful about the interactions with nature, the weird laws in Asia are many.  Also, the rules change when you visit different countries.  Nevertheless, to begin with, here is the list of things you can keep in mind.  1. Be Careful With Your Mobile Phone Use In Japan You will probably be shocked to learn that in a country that has such a big reputation for embracing technology in every way possible in their daily lives, there are strict rules in place relating to phone use in public spaces. Using your phone while out and about is a tricky subject in Japan.  They have laws that forbid people from using their phones in public spaces or when walking along a road.  It is such a unique law relevant to Japan that they even have a name for it.  If you are accused of the act of Arukisumaho, which effectively means “smartphone walking,” it could be a problem. In all likelihood, you would be unlucky to get pulled up by law enforcement officers for this offense.  Arukisumaho is definitely forbidden, but is generally tolerated. Japanese officials tend to take the view that they expect every person to be respectful of this law, mainly because it is aimed at avoiding accidents through being distracted, rather than being something they want to enforce. Best not to check your emails or scroll social media sites while out and about in Japan. Otherwise, you will get some stern looks from the locals and risk a legal challenge. 2. Watch How You Connect With Nature In Singapore If you are enjoying a nice walk in a public park, feeding the birds might seem like a perfectly natural thing to do.  In most places, this is a simple act that gives you pleasure, and the birds quite like it too. However, it’s a different story in Singapore. Be warned, feeding the birds or other wildlife in public spaces is actually illegal in Singapore.  Local authorities take this offense very seriously. So, you might receive more than a slap on the wrist while feeding birds and wildlife.  There are known examples of visitors being fined thousands of dollars for feeding pigeons, which is a surefire way to ruin your vacation in an instant. 3. How You Hook Up To The Internet Could Get You In Trouble Another law that is unique to Singapore relates to how you connect your device to the internet.  The issue here is that Singapore views the act of connecting to another person’s Wi-Fi as illegal.  It does not matter even if you have permission from the person to use it. It will still be an act of hacking.  There can be a fine as high as $10,000. Also, you can get a jail sentence for up to three years.  So, be careful while connecting your phone to other devices.  You should be okay when you connect to the Wi-Fi in a coffee shop or a designated workspace area.  However, definitely proceed with caution, especially when you think of the potential consequences. 4. Avoid The Pungent Aroma Of Durian Fruit In Public If you are not already aware of the incredibly strong and pungent aroma that durian fruit gives off, you certainly will be when it first hits your nostrils.  Understandably, this very unique food item has a strong reputation for being the smelliest fruit on the planet, as it really smells horrible. So, it is not surprising that places like Malaysia, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia have specific laws restricting the carrying or consumption of durian in public places.  It has such a distinctive and strong smell that it will soon become apparent if someone is breaking the law. When you consider how smelly this fruit actually is, this is a law that is quite easy to comply with. 5. Dress Respectfully In Thailand One of the joys of worldwide travel is being able to immerse yourself in different cultural experiences.  It also helps when you are respectful of local cultures and rules, especially if you don’t want to upset the locals or get into legal hot water. One law to comply with in Thailand is that you must wear underwear in a public place.  Also, bear in mind that the country does expect locals and visitors alike to dress respectfully and modestly. A good guideline to work to when traveling around Thailand would be to always keep your shoulders covered up.  So, wear skirts that are long enough to guarantee modesty, and keep your underwear on at all times! The Thai people are really friendly and love engaging with visitors. They also appreciate when someone makes the effort to observe their local cultural laws and dress with modesty in mind. These are some quirky laws to be aware of when traveling East. Generally speaking, take the time to behave respectfully and fully observe all local laws. Thus, you should enjoy a fantastic cultural experience.  Also, Western cultures and standards are different from those in Asia. Once you know the small tricks, you can avoid becoming a talking point.