Anyone visiting European Christmas markets warned of strict rule with £800 fine
If you're planning on heading to Europe to check out the Christmas markets this year, you should be aware of certain rules
by Talya Honebeek · The MirrorFor many people, the countdown to the festive period doesn't start until they've walked around one of the UK's many Christmas markets, a cup of warm mulled wine or hot chocolate in hand.
While it's possible to find a Christmas market in almost every major town and city, some instead opt to jet off to Europe to get into the festive spirit. From Dresden to Vienna, Europe is home to some truly spectacular Christmas markets.
Germany’s Christmas markets, for example, are known for their historical traditions, festivities, and amazing food and drink. Each year, they attract tourists from all around the world looking for the perfect winter break in the lead-up to Christmas.
However, Germany is also known for a number of peculiar laws, including those concerning noise at night and mowing your lawn on a Sunday. But there's another that also affects those visiting the country's festive markets.
Researchers from Northerner have warned people that one thing market-goers should be wary of is the country’s stringent recycling laws, which also apply to public bins. Based on waste separation rules and guidelines, anyone who illegally disposes of waste in public bins without proper separation should expect fines, some of which can be severe.
Penalties vary by state and the amount of illegally discarded waste, but can incur fines of up to €1000, which is the equivalent of about £833.
Germany isn't the only country with rules that affect tourists visiting in the winter months.
If you’re headed to Iceland and planning to embark on a popular expedition to see the famous Northern Lights, you may be considering doing so with a guided tour or by yourself.
For those planning a self-led trip with a rental car, it’s important to be aware of these two rules of the road in Iceland: you must always wear a seatbelt in the car and you must always have your lights on while driving. While having headlights on when trying to view the Northern Lights may not be ideal, drivers not abiding by this law could be penalised.