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New York is the most densely populated city in North America. Often referred to as "The Big Apple" or even "The City That Never Sleeps" New York is always the travelers destination and should not be missed. However, as it is with any place in the world, there are things you should know before packing your bags and flying off to NYC. Like many places in this strange and unusual world, New York City is home to several unusual laws that you may just need to watch out for. Admittedly most of these 'strange' laws are not enforced as many of them are out of date and not known to police officers. However, well known or not these laws are still on the books so get ready for a crash course in "How you can break the law in New York City".

Several years ago it became illegal in New York City to carry around an open can of spray paint because of serious graffiti problems. So, if you're an artist of the can, make sure you put it away in public. If you're a artist of the stage then feel free to perform all over New York as long as it's after 1:05pm. Unless of course you plan to have a puppet show in your window. By holding a puppet show in your window you are violating a law and can be jailed for 30 days. Just a warning!

There are also several laws covering clothes in New York. Pay attention ladies, you can not wear 'body-hugging' clothing in the street but there is an upside. New York law clearly states that women can ride city subways topless because they have equal rights as men. However, if you are topless and smoking you can be arrested because smoking is illegal on the subway. Also, if you're walking around the city on a Sunday make sure you don't have an ice cream cone in your pocket for fear of being fined. Beware of horses if you are holding an umbrella because it is against the law to open and close an umbrella in the presence of a horse.

If you're cleaning up your apartment or hotel be sure not to shake your dust mop out of the window, it's illegal. And don't get any ideas about throwing that swill out of your window either because you may have some problems explaining yourself.

Having a fun time playing ball in the park? Remember that it is illegal to throw a ball at someone's head for fun. And don't even think about putting a car alarm in your car. In New York, audible car alarms have been banned. Thinking of going to a restaurant? If you order a corned beef sandwich and it comes on white bread with mayonnaise that restaurant is officially breaking the law.

All you males, this one is just for you. There is an old law in New York that will land you a $25 fine for flirting. The same law states that it is also illegal for men to turn around on a city street to look at a woman 'in that way'. If you violate this law twice you may be made to wear a pair of horse-blinders on your next little walk.

All getting a little too much? Why not get away from the bustle of the streets and elevate yourself up to see some of the views. Just make sure when you're in the elevator you don't talk to anyone and you fold your hands while staring at the door. And if you're thinking of giving in just remember: it is a crime punishable by death to jump out of a New York building.

Good Luck on you travels. Stay safe and legal!

Learn more about this author, Oceana Setaysha.
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