Random Observation: Toilet Paper

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A common sign found in the bathroom

How often do you think about toilet paper? My guess is probably rarely unless you are cursing the person before you who used the last sheet and didn’t replace the roll.  In South America, we think about it multiple times a day.

First, you won’t find toilet paper in every bathroom (museums and tourist  restaurants appear to the exception). To avoid being stranded without it, we buy our own and stash some sheets in my purse and our pockets.

Second, if toilet paper is provided you might not find it in the usual spots.  For example, in Chilean bus stations the toilet paper roll is at the bathroom’s entrance not in the individual stalls.  In Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia the attendant hands you a few sheets (after paying of course).

Third, you can’t flush the toilet paper.  I still don’t understand why (something to do with antiquated plumbing)  so one must place the used toilet paper  in the trash can next to the toilet, which if not emptied frequently enough can create some unpleasant aromas.