This Important Phrase Is One Of The First Things You Should Learn In Other Countries

Picture this: You've landed in a new country where you don't know the language, but apart from the obvious communication barrier, you're beyond excited. Just when you thought the fluttering in your tummy was from the excitement, you quickly realize something not so exciting: The call of nature has sprung upon you out of nowhere. As you frantically run around town asking locals where the washroom is, they give you a blank stare as if you've grown an extra appendage. To avoid any embarrassing mishaps while traveling, one important phrase to learn before you land in a new country is how to ask where the bathroom is located.

Of course, learning important phrases like "thank you," "please," "hello," and "goodbye" are all used to show respect to locals abroad as you try to blend into your surroundings. And let's face it, there's nothing glamorous about asking where the toilet is. But it's something that we all deal with while traveling, and knowing how to ask for the bathroom is one of the best travel tips for a hassle-free getaway.

And what if there's no one around to ask? Luckily, there is a cool Google Translate feature you can try while traveling that translates words and signage directly onto your screen by using your phone's camera. But apart from using modern-day technology to read bathroom signage in another language, knowing how to ask where the bathroom is located spares you the embarrassment of having to act out your best version of charades to mimic and advertise to everyone that you need to go.

If you're too shy to ask a stranger where the bathroom is located and want to be a little more discreet, we totally understand. Luckily, there is a handy phone app that travelers can download in order to have loo locations at their fingertips. Toilet Finder helps tourists, or even locals, locate the closest bathroom facilities near them. You'll also be able to see a rating for the location, if it's accessibility friendly, or if payment is needed to use the facility.

Travel expert Rick Steves also has some helpful heads-up tips about European bathrooms that you should know before you need to go. Apart from knowing how to ask where the bathroom is, carrying some pocket change with you is a must while traveling in Europe. Some bathrooms will have turnstiles with coin slot payment needed before entering. Alternatively, there may be an attendant at the door that you pay before entering. These attendants help ensure the bathrooms are clean and fully stocked, so passing a small tip to them is much appreciated for their work.

Another crucial tip when using the bathroom abroad is making sure you have a few spare tissues or wet wipes in your bag for those emergency moments. In some countries, it's not customary for public restrooms to have toilet paper, or it may simply run out. Packing a few tissue packs can spare you the awkwardness of having to ask for toilet paper, especially if you don't speak the language.