Flush, Dont Blush, Knowing What To Expect While Using The Bathroom In Different Countries

Flush, Dont Blush, Knowing What To Expect While Using The Bathroom In Different Countries

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Many people do countless different activities while they're away overseas.
But there's one thing that we can guarantee that everyone does while
they're away on holiday, no matter what country, continent or island you
happen to be on.

Going to the toilet overseas can be an adventure in itself. "No flushing
toilet paper" signs, someone charging you to use the facilities, drop toilets,
toilets full to the brim with water, holes in the ground Figuring out the
toilet customs and cultures in different international locations can be
difficult, but is all part of the travel experience.

Here's a rundown of a few countries' and cultures' different toilet customs.

-Islamic. Countries that follow the Islamic faith follow particular rules
regarding toilet use. Generally washing with water as opposed to using
toilet paper is considered a ritual act of purity, and hands must be washed
immediately after. It is also accepted that the left hand is used to wash
oneself, and the right hand is used for handshakes. The practice of
washing as opposed to toilet paper use is also common in many Asian,
African and Middle Eastern countries. In India, it is also expected that one
washes themself with their left hand and eats with their right.

-Asian. Most Southeast Asian countries' plumbing systems cannot
handle flushed toilet paper, and toilet paper must be placed in a rubbish
bin next to the toilet. On the flip side, Japan has some of the most high-
tech toilets in the world, with jet stream for cleaning, buttons for sound
effects, seat warmers, deodorisers and armrests! It's the 5-star bathroom
experience.

-Australian. If you're looking at flights to Brisbane or Sydney, then
you'll generally find a relaxed toilet culture and etiquette. Many Australians
do not commonly refer to the toilet as a 'bathroom' or 'restroom', and are
more comfortable openly calling it a toilet, loo or the colloquial term 'dunny'.
Australia's toilets are also unique in that they have a 'two flush' system -
one that uses less or more water depending on your, er, movements.

-European. In most European countries, particularly France, you will
have to pay to use a public toilet. While toilet paper is readily available and
able to be flushed in most areas (except in Greece), many European
bathrooms also include a toilet and a bidet, which is a French invention of
the 17th century that is a plumbing fixture (similar to a toilet) used to wash
oneself after using the toilet. If you've booked flights to Paris, for example,
it's likely that your hotel bathroom will include a bidet in the bathroom.

When travelling overseas, don't be overwhelmed by the different toilet
etiquette. Take it in your stride, treat it as part of the experience, and
always remind yourself: "When in Rome"

About the Author:
Budgeting is one key thing for travel, make sure you keep an eye out for cheap flights.



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