So Good it’s Bad
“Durian is locally known as the King of Fruit. It is grown seasonally and favourite among the locals.” Just don’t try to bring any durian (or locals, for that matter) inside this posh hotel in Langkawi, Malaysia. Without a doubt, this ritzy piece of signage takes the cake. Speaking of which, do try the durian cake, shakes, ice cream and pizza (not kidding) next time you visit Malaysia! (image via Marc van der Chijs)
Restrictly Speaking
Meanwhile in Thailand, those on a restricted diet may find the only official restriction pertains to – you guessed it – durian. The establishment above makes the message very clear, in both Thai and English, and proscribes both fresh off-the-vine durian and the de-husked packaged fruit itself. Whew, for a country with so many commercial varieties of durian, Thailand sure doesn’t want to see (or smell) it! (image via KniBaron)
Exit Marks the Spot
Safety is a priority on Singapore’s MRT transit line so when you feel threatened by anything dangerous, consult this sign and run for the exit like The Three Stooges at the end of every short. Those threats may include food & drink, lit cigarettes, flammable goods, and durian… note that durian stands alone as it’s nominally a food but smells like a tire fire. Note also the fines for breaking the rules, and that a durian-related offense is so hideously grievous that no amount of money can rectify the airborne assault on travelers’ psyches and proboscises. (image via Terrazzo)
How Does Your Dog Smell?
Terrible! It must’ve rolled around in some durian. Regardless, this shop or residence bars entry to durian and your little dog too. Toto, we aren’t in Kansas anymore… we’re in Mae Sot, a district in Thailand situated along the Burmese border. (image via Yosomono)
Film (& Odor Level) At 11
Singapore may be known for its notoriously draconian ban on gum-chewing but most of the public warning signs seems to cite other societal evils such as smoking, eating/drinking in public, flammable or inflammable fuels (uninflammable, non-flammable or non-inflammable fuels are OK) and of course, durian. We’ve mentioned the hefty fines imposed on transgressors and if you think you can get away with breaking the rules, think again: Big Brother is watching you! Is He smelling you as well? If you’re smuggling durian, no doubt He (and everyone else) “nose” it. (image via Mr Bao)
Do you prefer Asian foods that haven’t (yet) been banned?? Check out Use Your Noodle: 7 Amazing Exotic Cup Ramens!

