Surprising Facts About Hotel Toilets: A Urinal Next to the Toilet

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

When traveling abroad and staying in hotels, you’ll notice that habits and facilities can vary somewhat from country to country. For example, rooms in the U.S. are usually larger, toilets may have different features, and floor numbering systems differ. Learning these small details not only helps you understand various cultures but also makes your trip go more smoothly.

1. The “Bidet” Next to the Toilet
Sometimes you’ll see a sitz bath basin next to the toilet in a hotel. This is called a bidet, a standard fixture in the bathrooms of five-star hotel rooms. Its purpose is to help users clean themselves after using the toilet, maintaining hygiene—this is especially common in European hotels.
 
2. Hotel Floor Numbering Systems
Floor numbering differs between Eastern and Western countries, generally divided into European and American styles. The American style is the same as in Taiwan—the lobby is usually considered the first floor. But in Europe, the Ground Floor (GF) is the entrance level, and what we call the first floor is actually their second floor.

3. Hotel Bed Sizes
In addition to differences such as single and double beds, bed sizes also vary 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. Bible in the Drawer
Some hotels or inns place a Bible in the drawer of the bedside table. Originally, this was for missionary purposes—to allow more people to be exposed to the word of God and receive divine grace. However, if the Bible or Quran is left open on a certain page, it may be used for exorcism purposes, so take note.

5. Four Pillows on the Bed
It’s common to see four pillows on hotel beds. They allow guests to adjust pillow height and match their sleeping posture. Aside from health and comfort considerations, this provides better sleep quality. Another purpose is to help relax the back—when guests watch TV in bed, they have proper lumbar support. 

6. Hotel Star Rating System
Hotels are rated by stars, but many travelers may not know the differences. A one-star hotel offers basic guest rooms and shared bathrooms, with a vending machine available. A two-star hotel has basic guest rooms and color TVs, along with a restaurant or bar. A three-star hotel offers various room types, plus a restaurant, gym, and business facilities. A four-star hotel has various room types, a restaurant and bar, business facilities, concierge service, pool, gym, and childcare. A five-star hotel provides luxury rooms and all the above amenities, plus additional services.
 

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