From None to 21: Legal Drinking Ages Around the World
Excessive alcohol consumption especially among the youth can cause problems; thus the enactment of the legal drinking age. In most parts of the world, people wait till they turn 18, while others wait until they’re 21 before they become legal. And others, believe it or not, do not have legal drinking ages.
Barbados. This is a famous tourist spot given that it is one of the blissful islands in the Caribbean. Like most places around the world, Barbados’ legal drinking age is 18. But this comes with an exception. Kids aging 10-17 can legally consume alcohol given that they have a parent with them! So if you’re below 18 traveling to Barbados and wanting to taste alcohol, think of ways to convince your parents to allow you to take a sip!
Cuba. Cuba is another Caribbean dream destination but not only for the beaches but also for its vibrant history, art and culture. One of the must-see spots for any traveler in Cuba is the Castillo de Farnes. You may think this is just another bar to get a beer from but this is actually a historical place where Che and Castro had a toast after the revolution. So if you want to drink as they did, there should be no problem because there are no restrictions on the drinking age. Everyone can drink, but only 16 year-olds and above can purchase. So when traveling to Cuba, make sure you bring a 16-year old with you!
United States. These people are the unfortunate bunch to have a legal drinking age of 21 (the highest in the world, except of course for countries where alcohol is illegal). There are some doctors who actually say that 21 is too high and there are currently studies on the effectiveness of such law. All American states consider alcohol consumption under 21 illegal, but some states are more permissive than others regarding the issue.
Bali. Like Cuba, this internationally recognized vacation paradise does not have a drinking age limit. But purchase is only permitted to those 15 and above. The rest of Thailand, however, has the usual 18-year-old legal drinking age, and legally, only 20-year-olds and above can get in clubs. This is not strictly followed though. This gives even more reason to travel to Thailand! Aside from the glorious beaches, fascinating festivals, and interesting culture, you can enjoy all these with a bottle of beer!
United Kingdom. Now they have quite a complicated law. The Children and Young Persons Act in 1933 prohibits alcohol consumption by anyone under 5 years old, which means once you reach 5 years, you can drink legally except in licensed places. Though you can drink alcohol in private, no one will serve it to you if you are 7 years old. Only when you are 16 can you drink wine or beer in a restaurant and this has to come with a meal and with an adult. Wait two more years and you can legally drink anything anywhere in the UK.In Scotland, it will be legal for adults to buy drinks for minors in 2009.
If you’re the type who enjoys a good glass of wine but are under 18, you might want to think about the legal drinking age of the place you’re visiting. You might be anticipating a great nightlife in a bar listening to a great band, but end up disappointed visiting a country where you cannot purchase a bottle of beer for yourself.
Fly to the Caribbean and drink in Cuba or Barbados! Your flight is free.
Fly for free to the UK! Just watch what your kids are drinking!
