Take a close look at the picture. Uh huh. Thats right. That’s a urinal on the side of a shower stall. You’ll also find a jaguar pelt on the wall outside.

Here in Belize, splash protection is first priority. We found that there were few "public" restrooms on the island. Most businesses are very explicit about marking their territory for customers only. Many have signs in place offering to charge you a dollar or more. With four miles of island, one hotel room per customer and much to see and do in between, this can be a big hassle. I found creative ways to avoid paying. Why? Because I already support the local people with my patronage. Therefore, I ask them to support my bladder. Peeing in this country is not, however a sovereign right. Bus stations frequently charge 50 cents to one dollar – even if you’ve already purchased a ticket. I have no qualms about circumventing these rules. Wearing my floppy camoflage jungle hat (which I was told is what the British soldiers here wear) I walked right passed the moneytaker straight to the bathroom without being asked to pay and frankly, I didn’t ask to pay either. Another time I pleaded ignorance even though I was not ignorant, not ignorant enough to actually plead it anyway. Weak septic systems are cause for concern and toilet paper is inevitably waste basketed rather than flushed. One business owner on Caulker who had an immaculate restroom insisted that I not review her establishment for fear that people would start going their more frequently! It seems that things are done a little differently here. Thats okay. I’m adjusting to the rules. So is my bladder.

– Justin Teerlinck