Cultural Differences and Toilet Bowls

In the USA, it is a norm for toilet bowls to be covered after use. This is politeness performed with the next user in mind to indicate the bowl is fit for use and in order the next person may not faint at the smell,

In Asia, it is a norm for toilet bowls not to be covered after use. This is performed with the males in mind, so that reckless aiming may not stain the seater for the next user, and in order to reveal the condition before use.

In a place where the two cultures meet, however, different responses take place.

To the Asian, when a toilet bowl is covered, what immediately takes place is a feeling of distaste, and what comes to mind is a likely soiled and dirty toilet bowl hidden behind the cover, possibly containing unflushed waste or jammed-up materials, or spills of blood stains within. What comes next is therefore expectable; a move away to another bowl, or a flushing before lifting the cover, or the time for reality call.

To the American, when a toilet bowl is uncovered, it means a lack of manners, or an act of inconsideration for the next user, or worst, the shock of a seater cover spilled with urine and the content in the bowl unflushed.

Such are the cultural shocks we have to face in a world with cross cultural mix. If you have in mind a plan to live anywhere else other than your hometown, you must therefore be prepared and get accustomed to the new culture before you take the plunge.