The Dreaded Squatter

Walk into a public bathroom here in Thailand and you are likely to be greeted with the scene shown above. This is an example of an incredibly clean squatter that is ready for use. To use, simply follow the instructions below:

1. Stand straddling the hole in the ground on the 2 grip pads facing towards the bottom of the photo.
2. Drop trou and somehow position your pants out of the way. Or maybe you are supposed to take off your pants completely...not really sure since I haven't had to go badly enough to actually try this. (Lea Ann says it is better to take them off...LOL)
3. Do your dirty, sinful business.
4. Rinse with the tupperware bowl using water from the tub on your left (the right of the photo). Remember to use your left hand for any required manual scrubbing.
5. Pour a nice big bucketful of water into the toilet when finished. This will cause it to "flush". Notice that there is no running water or "flush" handle...this is taken care of by gravity.

If you can...the best option is to wait until you get to your hotel. Or search for the nearest McDonald's, because they always have the standard "Western" equipment...or close enough.