You may be wondering why we are writing about this. We include a discussion regarding bathrooms when we go through travel documents with clients. Why you ask? Well, because we want to make sure our clients are prepared.
First, it isn’t easy to find a washroom. Wandering through Rome, Florence, or Venice, you would have the same problem as if you were in a lesser-known small town. If you must “go,” hop into the closest “bar” (coffee bar) and buy an espresso, water, Spritz or anything and use the facilities.
When visiting a museum or other excursion, always use the washrooms.
Make sure you have coins to pay for the facilities (0.50 Euro, 1- or 2 euro coins) you may be charged to use the facilities. This is especially true at train stations.
Now, while these are slowly being replaced, they are still in many places. The Turkish Toilet (or squat toilet)
Pull your pants down and squat (note to self, practice at home, so you don’t have issues getting back up!)
On to the bidet – this has always been a standard item in an Italian bathroom. In North America, it has only become popular since Covid. If you are in someone’s home, DON’T use the bidet! The towels are for those that live in the house. In your hotel, you will find a bidet for personal hygiene. You straddle it, water on (it will spray up or towards your private parts), some soap and wash!
Once you’ve gotten used to a bidet, you don’t want to live without one!
