What Not To Do At North Potugal
Known for great weather and its scenic beauty, North Portugal is an ideal destination for holidaying. There are many popular tourist attractions here and thousands of travellers visit North Portugal every year. Majority of the travellers are from countries like the UK, the US and European countries. One must be aware of the cultural differences that might occur when you travel here. You must know "what not to do" at North Portugal.
Always carry personal identification proof while in North Portugal. The police or legal authorities can ask you to show your identification proof anytime, anywhere. Especially, if you have bought your own car or are driving any hired car, do carry your personal identification proof.
In North of Portugal, if you are found guilty of consuming, trafficking or selling of drugs you may be subjected to huge penalties. As per Portuguese drug law, possession of drugs is a criminal offence. Do not indulge in such illegal activities when you are at North Portugal. Pickpockets are spread everywhere especially in crowded areas. So, take care of your valuables.
Don't eat cooked food that is no longer hot. Cooked food can become toxic if kept at room temperature for long duration. Be careful while consuming dairy products. Never have unpasteurized milk and milk products. Do not eat street food. Also stay away from raw food especially poultry products like raw fish or meat. Strictly avoid having toxic fishes like grouper, sea bass, Barracuda and red snapper. Travelers should not forget to carry antibiotic and anti-allergic drugs. While in North Portugal make sure that you drink clean and safe water. Water is the biggest cause of stomach infections so be careful.
Don't have unprotected sex or get injected or go for blood transfusions when in North Portugal as HIV infection is prevalent here.
Don't handle your passport carelessly when in North of Portugal. Passport theft is on the rise in North Portugal so keep your passport safely. Its an expensive and valuable document which if misplaced can cause serious problems including identity theft. Don't carry credit cards, cash and tickets in a single handbag or in your pocket. Always leave some spare cash in a safe place. Don't leave any valuables in a car as thieves target tourist cars.
According to Laurent Van Dessel, Car Expert, When driving in North Portugal don't drive on the right hand side of the road. Always hire a car that has a comprehensive travel insurance. In case you bring your own car while travelling to North Portugal, don't loan your car to anyone else. Also, don't leave the nation without taking your car otherwise you will be heavily fined by Portuguese Customs authority.
Obey lifeguard's warning flags on beaches. Death by drowning in pools and beaches is very common in Portugal. Don't ignore the warning flags on beaches. Don't dive into unmanned and unknown water bodies. Hidden rocks can be present in some water bodies which can cause serious injury. Stay away from islands and mainland, when at North Portugal, as there are seismic activities in these areas.