European toilet tricks to know before you go
Among travelers or those who have crossed different time zones often come up with an interesting topic, and that is the “Toilets.” These people always have toilet stories to share because they see something different in every zone. Toilets have different structures and regulations to be used rightly as per the zone you visit.
Sponsored Article
So, let’s read how it is to use toilets in Europe:
Flummoxing Flushers
The European toilets based on the region make use of different flushing mechanism. The older bathrooms have a string system that you need to pull in order to flush. Modern bathrooms provide with the button system that works when you push in. The handle mechanism is there too that needs you to do it rightly. These are the best toilets used by European people.
Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is another thing that is common in European as well as Western countries. Here, the toilets are well stocked with the toilet papers that you either need to flush down or throw in the bin.
While in some countries like Greece and Turkey, the plumbing is not so strong, and thus, they have the bins beside the toilets.
This means, you are not supposed to flush the toilet paper; instead, use the waste container.
Paid Toilets
In Europe, you may also find yourself paying to use the washroom. Well, many people get surprised or question the system but this is the custom there if you want to use the toilet. There are even coin-operated toilets when you want to use a restroom at the highway, gas station, or similar place.
The coin-operated toilets are more common in cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam. When you insert the coin, it lets you use the washroom for 15 minutes. The cabin disinfects itself once you leave; a fascinating toilet to experience though.
At some places, you may also find a free toilet but there you need to buy the toilet paper. These attendants sell the toilet paper that you can buy on your own will or it is never bad to leave a coin or two.
The Female Attendants In Male Washrooms
It is common to see the female attendants in male washrooms while traveling in Europe. This is like a custom there that you both get used to, sooner or later.
Gender-Neutral Bathrooms
Some European bathrooms allow both men and women to share the common toilets. However, the toilet area is separated; both can still use the handwashing area together.
There are some washrooms too that apply no restrictions at all from washing hands to using the toilet area.
Squat Toilets
In some areas, you may also find squat toilets where you sit down in a squat like position and aim the hole. However, these toilets are in minority, these are still in use. These toilets comprise the footprints where you need to place both feet and aim, and that is all. These are also known as “Turkish toilets,” as there are common there.
Finding A Public Restroom
There are public restrooms as well where you may have to wait in the queue to excrete the content. These can be somewhat frustrating but relaxing too when you see no other option.
Restaurants
Restaurants have washroom too in Europe but you may not find any sign saying washrooms. This is to avoid those street people from using the facility every time. However, you can always make a polite request to use the bathroom.
In other cases, you can just enter the restaurant, visit the upstairs or downstairs and it should be there. Meanwhile, the waiters think you as a customer, but all you have to do is get rid of your content and you are free to go. It may be rude but it is a trick to use the washroom when you don’t want to order anything.
Public Buildings
You can always look for the infrastructure or the buildings. These buildings can be the stations, government offices, libraries, department stores, hospitals or anything where you think the restroom can reside. There is no harm in trying your luck at these places especially when you don’t have time to roam here and there for a toilet. Or if you find a museum nearby, go get the washroom; pay the ticket if you have to.
