A Life of Vice

I have compiled a list of the surprising things that are legal in various countries around the world. I have been looking at things that are actually allowed in developed countries rather than obscure loop wholes or third world countries. I do have to add the disclaimer that I am not advocating all of these.

• Germany – this might not sound like a home of vice but it is the home of the motor car and the motorway. They still have many sections of the autobahn without any speed limit. Yes, you can drive as fast as you want
• Portugal – The possession of any drugs for personal use is not a criminal matter. Do expect an intervention from your doctor if you are caught however.
• Spain – Sex with 13 year olds. The age of consent in Spain, subject to some complexities, is 13 years old.
• Holland – Obviously the most fun one to write about.
o Marijuana can be bought over the counter in tightly regulated coffee shops
o Magic mushrooms are still freely available despite various attempts to ban them.
o You can buy videos of people having sex with animals or pretending to be raped.
• Canada – Seal clubbing
• Norway – Whaling
• Switzerland – Assisting suicide
• Japan and Russia – It is legal to possess child pornography for personal use.
• Belgium – It is legal to have consentual incestual sex with someone aged over 16, in Brazil 14.
• Czech Republic – Handguns are generally available to anyone over 21, 16 in some cases.

Enjoy