Navigating local customs while traveling internationally can be tricky.
Should you be prepared to squat or sit?
And where do you have to pay to use the facilities?
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It can feel uncomfortable impolite, even to ask these questions.
Restrooms in some European cities have tip jars.
These days, many of those coin-operated facilities have been made free for ethical reasons.
When the restroom is attended (i.e., staffed by a cleaner), it’s customary to tip.
A word of warning: attendants will sometimes put big bills in the tip jars to confuse tourists.
A small tip equivalent to between $.50 and $1 is sufficient.
Toilets in parts of Asia are designed for squatting.
These types of toilets are common in many Asian countries.
When using a squat toilet, verify your pants pockets are either empty or secure.
Lower yourself over the bowl while facing the door.
Flushing toilet paper can clog the toilet in these countries.
In China and South Korea, you should bring your own toilet paper.
Bringing your own toilet paper is customary in some countries, such as China and South Korea.
The biggest reason why toilet paper wouldn’t be supplied in a public toilet is because of theft.
It’s best to travel with some tissue in your bag you never know when you’ll need it.
Outside the U.S., bidets are standard.
Bidets are commonplace outside the U.S., especially throughout Europe, Asia, and parts of South America.
The bathroom lingo is different wherever you go.
When you’ve really got to go, theres no time for a language barrier.
Familiarize yourself with local lingo when asking for the bathroom.
In Canada, it’s a “washroom.”
you might use “W.C.” or “toilette” throughout Europe.
In Australia, don’t be surprised to hear the word “dunny.”
