A toilet-side surprise: 6 surprising facts about hotels

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

When staying in hotels while traveling abroad, there are always some differences in habits and facilities from one country to another. For example, rooms in the U.S. are usually larger, toilets come with different features, and the way floors are counted varies. Learning these little tidbits not only helps you understand the cultures of different countries but also makes your trip go more smoothly.

1. The "bidet" next to the toilet
Sometimes you’ll see a small seat-like basin next to the toilet in a hotel. This is called a bidet, a standard fixture in the bathrooms of five-star hotels. Its purpose is to help users clean themselves after using the toilet, maintaining hygiene—especially common in European hotels.
 
2. How hotel floors are counted
The way floors are counted differs between Eastern and Western countries, generally divided into European and American styles. The American style, like in Taiwan, considers the lobby level as the first floor. But in Europe, the Ground Floor (GF) is the entrance level, so what we call the first floor is actually their second floor.

3. Hotel bed sizes
Aside from the usual differences like single or double beds, there are also variations between American and European styles. In the U.S., King Size and Queen Size beds are popular, while in Europe, a large bed is often made by pushing two beds together. 

4. Bibles in drawers
Some hotels or inns place Bibles in the drawers of bedside tables. Originally, this was for missionary purposes, hoping to let more people come into contact with the word of God and receive divine grace. But if you find a Bible or Quran left open on a certain page, pay extra attention—it might be placed there for exorcism purposes.

5. Four pillows on the bed
It’s common to see four pillows on a hotel bed. They can be used to adjust pillow height or suit different sleeping positions. Beyond health and comfort considerations, they offer travelers a better night’s sleep. Another use is to support the back—when guests watch TV in bed, the extra pillows can provide enough lumbar support. 

6. How hotels are star-rated
Hotels have star ratings, but many travelers may not know the differences. A one-star hotel offers basic guest rooms and shared restrooms, along with a vending machine. A two-star hotel has basic rooms and color TVs, plus a restaurant or bar. A three-star hotel provides various room types, with a restaurant, fitness center, and business facilities. A four-star hotel offers multiple room options, featuring restaurants and bars, business amenities, concierge service, swimming pool, fitness center, and childcare. A five-star hotel provides luxury rooms, including all the above facilities plus additional services.
 

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