Travellers who often find themselves in foreign countries always conduct thorough research beforehand to better prepare themselves for any unexpected situations. But who would’ve thought that one of the concerns they’d have to consider involves the toilet?
In a recent video shared by @rubysamsuddin, she gives us a glimpse of her recent visit to a valley and mountain resort at Altyn Arashan in Kyrgyzstan.
Natural toilet at Altyn Arshan
For those unaware, the toilets up in Altyn Arashan’s mountains are referred to as “natural toilets” for multiple reasons.
Speaking to WORLD OF BUZZ, Ruby shared her experience visiting these mountains during a holiday, as she’s an avid traveller. She explained that the natural toilets lack traditional amenities like toilet bowls and running water.
The “natural toilet” is set up because there aren’t any proper restroom facilities in the mountain area.
“If you want something more comfortable, you’d have to stay at a slightly pricier guesthouse, but there aren’t many of those in Altyn Arashan, and most are still being renovated,” she added.
She was aware of the natural toilet but didn’t expect the smell that comes along with it
Ruby further explained that the toilets there include shelters for privacy and provide toilet paper rolls. However, visitors are not required to dig their own holes but would have to place wooden platforms to stand on instead.
“If you need to use the toilet, you have to ensure that you’re aiming at the right spot.”
She continued to share how she had done some research beforehand and knew about the natural toilets. However, she was surprised by how bad it smelled, considering it’s used by not just her but also many other tourists.
“Hopefully they’ll improve their toilets in the future”
Ruby described how the toilet has a deep hole underneath, though she wasn’t sure how deep it goes. It’s where your waste drops directly, mixing with that of other tourists, which is why it’s known as a “natural toilet.”
She concluded the interview by saying,
“If you’re planning to visit Kyrgyzstan, especially Altyn Arashan, don’t worry at all. It’s all about the experience! If you get the chance to go, enjoy and immerse yourself in nature because it’s a stunning and peaceful country.”
You can watch the full video down below:
@rubysamsuddin Sorry sbb no update in few days sbb kami ke Altyn Arshan and stay overnight dalam Yurt. It was a good experience cuma toilet dia sgt semulajadi ?? Dia korek lubang je and semua jatuh ke bawah. Xde air. Ko kena amik air dlm botol ya. Kat sini no network at all. Jd sy sarankan, korg hiking je ke sini and turun semula in the same day.. Tp kalau nk stay overnight, kena prepare mental lah. Sbb cuaca sejukkkk gila nak mati.. #altynarashan #kyrgyzstan #travel #traveltiktok
When nature calls, you gotta do what you gotta do, even if it means using a “natural toilet” in the mountains!
Also read: “Like in a mall!” – Indonesian TikToker Awed by Malaysian R&R’s Clean Toilets & Top Notch Facilities