One of the things that trips up tourists, especially from the United States, but other developed countries as well, is the differences they encounter when traveling, in hygiene. For example, toilets. In some countries, restroom facilities are clean and beautiful. But in some developing countries, facilities may be more rustic -- hole in the ground, a drain next to a water spout, for example. It is always best to be prepared and learn about these things in advance so there are as few shocks as possible.
Differences in hygiene
My sister-in-law went on a
On May 4th, 2007 Hootowl says:
My sister-in-law went on a missions trip to Africa several years ago. She said they had a hut for the ladies to use the restroom in, but she couldn't go because she was laughing so hard. The toilet seat was on the ground, right around a hole. I guess you were supposed to squat. No need to worry about touching the seat, you might not be able to get back up! At least not in a very lady-like position.
It's always a good idea, too, to try to learn at least "Where is the bathroom" and some basic direction words if you're traveling in a foreign country.
If you don't research, I can
On June 13th, 2007 ladyt says:
If you don't research, I can only say don't be surprised at what you fine. We were outside of London and I swear the bathroom stalls in one place we ate, were the tallest I had ever seen, the bathroom was clean to a hospitals standards, but the stalls almost touched the ceiling!
Whichever country you visit
On July 2nd, 2007 lonelyplanet says:
Whichever country you visit never forget to take with you your handy sanitiser. Its the best bet against the germs and your safeguard for the hygenic environment. When I went to India there were literally totally dry toilets with so much stink and shit that if there had not been my sanitiser with me I'd have surely caught a disease there.
Re: Differences in hygiene
And don't forget to be prepared to pay to pee.
It is normally next to nothing but make sure you have some small change as I don't think they will change a big note plus sometimes you have a turnstyle.
Even though you might not to pay sometimes you can't get away without paying, plus I love the fact that you have to pay to get a square or two or toilet paper.
I try and remember to travel with a roll of toilet paper lol