Cool urinal

At first I thought this Japanese restaurant was just getting rid of their old ice, but then I noticed all the urinals there were full of ice cubes. Now why...? Probably better not to ask.

Bathroom signs

Not even sure which countries these are from

You know what to do

Flexibility

Previously I wrote about getting creative to get out of the bathroom:

http://samchristhai.blogspot.com/2009/09/malaysia-what-do-you-do.html

I've had occasion to return to the same bathroom since, and noticed a change. First, the door doesn't automatically close - apparently reworking that was chosen until the door handle can be addressed. Later, the door closure mechanism was put to additional use.

For me, this is a nice example of the creativity and resourcefulness I often see in southeast Asia. Compared to some places I've traveled, budgets for infrastructure or maintenance are different, so solutions to obstacles often become more innovative. As well, the standards being adhered to are also much less rigid and more negotiable, with 'what works' becoming 'what's proper'. I've tried to learn to see it from that mindset, and it's made me a much more tolerant person.

Bathroom turtles

It's the little things that count.

Malaysia - what do you do?

You're in the bathroom. You turn to leave. You see this. You would like to exit the bathroom. What do you do?

More things you can see in Bangkok toilets

So aside from strange foreigners taking pictures of who knows what, in Bangkok toilets you can also see things like:

1. Signs warning you that if you leave your bag unattended a thief might steal it.  The sweating guy is the thief, not the victim (is he sweating for fear of being caught?  or is it evil sweat?).  And even though this was the men's room, it still warns you about your purse, which is a very comprehensive warning.

2. Plants drinking Chang beer.  Is there any living thing in Bangkok that doesn't drink Beer Chang?

When you gotta go...

These are the most descriptive signs I've ever seen for restrooms.  These folks certainly convey the urgency of the situation.

Toilet Humor

I have no idea why I find signs for, about, and around toilets so amusing, but here you go.  Enjoy.

Toilet Shower

On first glance, I thought this sign at the Bangkok train station said "toilet shower", which sparked disturbing imagery in my mind.  On consideration, I realized it actually was advertising both a toilet and a shower, separate services.  Whew.