Now, in my apartment I have a nice normal toilet that we're all used to. A nice, somewhat comfy throne upon which to sit and ponder the meaning of life. However, if you go out in Korea (or Asia in general) to use a public toilet, it's a 50/50 toss-up whether you'll be faced with one of these:
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| a traditional "Western" toilet |
or one of these:
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| a traditional "Eastern" toilet, or "squatter" |
Sadly, my old school building only had squatters. I pretty much never used the toilet unless I absolutely had to and I had a strictly "pee only" policy. There's usually pee all over the floor thanks to hundreds of elementary school children (and it's not exactly easy for girls to aim) and it's generally just gross.
My school just moved into a brand new building this week and I was certain we would have real Western toilets as the restaurant below has super nice bathrooms. Alas, I was wrong. We only have squatters, again. I'm convinced it's because the owner doesn't want us spending lots of time on the toilet.
I'm slightly worried now, as it was hard enough to squat down when I wasn't pregnant. Now I'm worried that when my belly starts to grow I'll eventually get stuck in a squatting position and not be able to get back up (there aren't any convenient handicap rails or anything, just the wall to help you up). Sigh. I've really enjoyed my time in Korea, but I can't wait to get back to the US. Just 3 1/2 months to go.
10 comments:
I spent some time in Indonesia and was always disturbed by the eastern toilets. What disturbed me more though was the footprints on the western toilet seat at the airport! I would think if given the choice, I wouldn't climb up and squat! LOL
LOL...I remember traveling in Korea and being scared by the squatting toilets...I visited one summer and it was scary for me!!! So I understand completely. NYTimes had an article that the squat toilets are more ergonomic and put less strain on your bowel muscles and actually prevent hemmorroids!!!
I think you will be fine till you reach the states in 3.5; till 4 months I was still really tight and small with my 1st pregnancy. Then the baby starting growing rapidly...Excited for your journey.
Ohhhhh myyyy heavens........... uhm... that's about all I can say! You go in/on THAT?? I didn't know that - learned something new. Something that has now been seared into my brain....
Oh my... But, I'm glad you have a place to go at home that is comfortable, whew!
OH NO...
lol
that is horrible! You poor girl.
Seems like it would platter pee on people shoes!
Gross.
How far did the school move? Is there a coffee shop near? Surely Sunny would understand if you had to run to Monkey and TCB.
With the odds being 50/50, you know I only used one squat toilet when I was there. It was the first night that we went out with Peter for galbi and I chose to do it just to experience it.
I feel like since you're losing weight/gaining baby it might just stay the same experience. But probably not. You should probably become familiar with giving yourself a catheter for your teaching shifts! Or just pee yourself - it's not that uncommon, right? <3 Rae
I have never seen anything like that! I do NOT envy you! Good luck!
I suddenly have an odd appreciation of my toilet. I suppose the squatting toilet forces you to have strong legs!
you're supposed to poop in that too?? i'm so clumsy that i know it'd be my luck that i would trip and land right in it.
W.O.W. I don't have much to say about that. At least you will be back to our "normal" toilets real soon! Good luck with that!
I cannot believe those squaters. I guess we are spoiled. I cannot wait for you to get back either..
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