The Backpacking Chronicles - Edition 5
May 28th 2008 08:11
The Shower Scene.
Ever seen mould in a shower that is further encrusted with unidentifiable substances?
This experience could be commonly known as the, 'beware of showers in hostels and don't forget your thongs (flip-flops,jandals)', initiation into the world of mass-shared bathroom facilities.
An art form worthy of intense practice is dressing in a miniature cubicle, with wet feet encased in wet thongs. Never bring jeans to change into, it's hard enough getting into your underwear.
To bring, or not to bring a towel is always a hot, debatable topic for backpackers. I've seen faded to grey, holey, dirt ridden versions of such things, flapping in the breeze, attached to equally down-trodden (well, we actually like to say 'well travelled') backpacks.
I've tried the tiny, chamois version and decided it would be better put to use drying my shampoo bottle than my body.
Plastic bags are one of the most useful items to have in your backpack, especially to store wet objects you can hopefully wash and dry at the next destination.
Sometimes, drunken bodies sprawled on cool tiles can be a hazard if you get up for a midnight toilet stop. If stepping over them looks too dangerous, it's always better to hold it and try again later. The liquid substance on the floor is not likely to be water.
If you're an early riser, listening for the cleaners and going once they're done will ensure the most enjoyable visits to shared bathrooms, (yes, it's a rarity, but I have seen cleaners in hostels, bless them).
You also lessen the risk of escapee soaps landing under foot and discarded toothpaste from the stall next door running in between your toes if you get up before everyone else. Even thongs can't protect you from the toothpaste avalanche; avoid the end shower if it's on a downward slope.
Many people simply choose to forgo the whole experience. You'll know who they are.
Ever seen mould in a shower that is further encrusted with unidentifiable substances?
This experience could be commonly known as the, 'beware of showers in hostels and don't forget your thongs (flip-flops,jandals)', initiation into the world of mass-shared bathroom facilities.
An art form worthy of intense practice is dressing in a miniature cubicle, with wet feet encased in wet thongs. Never bring jeans to change into, it's hard enough getting into your underwear.
To bring, or not to bring a towel is always a hot, debatable topic for backpackers. I've seen faded to grey, holey, dirt ridden versions of such things, flapping in the breeze, attached to equally down-trodden (well, we actually like to say 'well travelled') backpacks.
I've tried the tiny, chamois version and decided it would be better put to use drying my shampoo bottle than my body.
Plastic bags are one of the most useful items to have in your backpack, especially to store wet objects you can hopefully wash and dry at the next destination.
Sometimes, drunken bodies sprawled on cool tiles can be a hazard if you get up for a midnight toilet stop. If stepping over them looks too dangerous, it's always better to hold it and try again later. The liquid substance on the floor is not likely to be water.
If you're an early riser, listening for the cleaners and going once they're done will ensure the most enjoyable visits to shared bathrooms, (yes, it's a rarity, but I have seen cleaners in hostels, bless them).
You also lessen the risk of escapee soaps landing under foot and discarded toothpaste from the stall next door running in between your toes if you get up before everyone else. Even thongs can't protect you from the toothpaste avalanche; avoid the end shower if it's on a downward slope.
Many people simply choose to forgo the whole experience. You'll know who they are.
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