What to expect from WC in Russia

Everybody knows what Indian toilets are like.
In one word: creepy.

But what about Russian ones?

First of all, let's practice.

Tuah-lette. 

In Russian it will be written like this: "туалет".
Or WC.
Or a man/women picture on the exact door.

My first foreign friends from Kentucky said tuah-lette was the first word they've learned when they came to Russia. Very convenient.

Now, when you've learned how to say it, let's discuss where to find it.

1. Fast food WC solution

Every McDonalds, Burger King and similar fast food chains certainly have one. It is free of charge (not like in Germany) but sometimes there is a code lock on the door so owners make sure you buy something before you can use facilities.

Anyway, you can wait a bit and someone who visits tuah-lette right now will open a door inside and let you in. Without a code.

Some people say these codes appeared to help fast food staff avoid drug use or/and homeless people taking bath but I'm not sure if it is true.


2. Fancy restaurant/cafe solution

It was recommended by St. Petersburg's government in 2004 to "allow people use lavatories in cafes and restaurants" so many people use it right now.

Say, you have the right to ask if restaurant staff is okay with you using their WC. And with 95% probability they are.

Maybe it has something to do with your appearance so homeless person entering 5-star hotel is likely to hear refusal but honestly, it's mainly okay. So go check.


3. Mall solution

Easiest way is to come to any shopping centre with multiple boutiques/shops and find a lavatory there. It could be free or not (10-30 RUR) but it might as well be cleaner if it's paid.


4. Paid street cabin solution

If you find yourself in a park or on the street, try to locate street tuah-lette. Convenient, reliable and safe choice.


And I'll put this video here so you can practice more with a blond Russian girl.
Enjoy!