This was published 9 years ago
Travel annoyances: Nine things travellers do that should be banned
By Jolyon Attwooll
Reserving a sunlounge with a towel? Ban it.Credit: iStock
Last week, it was revealed authorities in Venice were considering introducing a ban on certain types of wheeled suitcases (though they have since denied this).
The authorities in the city cited concerns about "growing noise pollution", caused by tourists using wheeled luggage, as well as local businesses wheeling goods around on trolleys.
The noise from wheeled suitcases created "serious discomfort" for locals it was stated, as well as causing the "progressive deterioration" of old paving slabs, marble steps and foot bridges.
But wheeled suitcases are just one of range of common holidaymaker complaints - should any of them be banned?
1. Reclining seats
Few issues stir up flyers more. To recline or not to recline. Earlier this year, there were two instances in quick succession of planes being diverted after the use of (illegal) anti-reclining devices and the arguments that ensued. Is this the issue you feel most strongly about?
Put your tray tables away, return your seat to the upright position and, please, keep your shoes on.Credit: iStock
2. Hotel Wi-Fi charges
In this day and age? Really?
3. Wheeled suitcases
Venice is perhaps a special case, but the issue of wheeled suitcases is a wider travel bugbear. It's not so much the suitcases themselves, but the manner in which they are handled. Why take up space for one person, when you can double your width and take the space for two?
4. Children on planes
An emotive one. The prospect of child-free flights stirs up strong feelings. There has been support in the past for child-free flights. But that would risk alienating a significant chunk of the travelling population? Zones have now been introduced by some airlines, with some success. But how much would you like to see the same policy introduced on all airlines you fly with?
5. Reserving sunloungers with towels
We won't delve into the usual national stereotyping when it comes to sunloungers. But to what extent would sun-seekers like to avoid the traditional morning rush to bag the right vantage point?
6. Fast food on trains
You're on the Paris Metro, and the familiar aroma of Le Big Mac comes wafting down from the other end of the carriage. Room 101, or non?
7. Removing shoes on planes
You may be on a long-haul flight, where comfort is hard to come by. But do you really need to expose your malodorous feet to the rest of the cabin? Inconsiderate travelling or a natural thing to do
8. Topless men (away from beaches)?
There's just no need, some argue – citing Britons as particularly bad offenders. Just because the mercury shows more than 20C doesn't mean we need to see your moobs at the local ice cream parlour.
9. Selfies. Anywhere.
From the Eiffel Tower to the most remote corners of the world, people feel obliged to whip out their smartphones and record the moment.
We've had the man at the top of the Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer statue.
We've even had an F-16 pilot getting involved. And now there's the rise of the "selfie stick"? Where will this madness end, some ask.
The Telegraph, London
What traveller behaviour would you like to see banned? Post your comments below.
Sign up for the Traveller newsletter
The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now.