There is a growing trend in British tourists travelling abroad that needs addressing.

When you book a trip, you look at the hotel, the flights, the local transport, food, activities and so on and so forth.

But it’s becoming more and more apparent that fewer British tourists are taking note of the different cultural customs and laws of a particular country before they holiday there.

We’ve seen a rise in the number of Brits arrested abroad, with more than 2,500 Britons locked up in prisons overseas according to the Foreign Commonwealth Office, from inappropriate actions. With the news of arrests in Dubai, and the most recent episodes of inappropriate dancing in Cambodia, further light is shining on British tourists, especially with Brexit on the horizon, so it’s imperative that we do more homework before we step foot on the plane.

There is a job to do as online travel agencies, tour operators and airlines, to ensure that travellers are well researched about customs, whether that’s providing tops tips or key information beforehand through their social media platforms or through their website.

It sounds simple, but advise your customers to take time to research the place they’re visiting. It will almost certainly have different cultures and customs to home, and if they are not observed it could land them in hot water.

You can also visit the UK government website to check foreign travel advice in relation to local laws and customs.

The United Arab Emirates, for example, have very strict local laws and customs regarding alcohol, public touching and dress, which if abused, result in harsh penalties. We’ve seen plenty of examples of tourists, including high-profile celebrities, getting themselves in trouble for failing to address these.

Such countries are incredibly hospitable and show respect for British tourists, but the respect has to be reciprocated.

So what are the top do’s and don’ts for top Brit holiday hotspots?

A number of holiday destinations favoured by Brits, including Dubai, South East Asia and Europe, have strict rules and customs to do/avoid. Here is a list of some you may not know, although you should always research each country in more depth:

Dubai

Alcoholic drinks are served in licensed hotels and clubs, but it is a punishable offence to drink, or to be under the influence of alcohol, in public.

People should dress modestly in public areas like shopping malls. Swimming attire should be worn only on beaches or at swimming pools.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and you can be arrested for kissing in public.

Photography of certain government buildings and military installations isn’t allowed. You could also be detained for two months for plane spotting.

Thailand

It was recently announced that there is a smoking ban on beaches in certain tourist areas, including Koh Samui, Pattaya and Phuket. You could face a 100,000 baht fine, or up to a year in prison. Holidaymakers should speak to local guides regarding where you can smoke in public.

Cambodia

Cambodian authorities have issued an official code of conduct for visitors to Angkor Wat and other religious sites, including a dress code. You shouldn’t wear skirts or shorts above the knee or tops that reveal bare shoulders. Men and women should dress moderately.

Singapore

Chewing gum is banned in Singapore, so advise customers to leave it at home. Importation of chewing gum is illegal and improper disposal of gum could result in a hefty fine of up to $1,000 for first time offenders.

Greece

It is illegal to wear stilettos around certain historic sites in Greece as they can cause damage, and can often threaten preservation efforts.