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Espresso Bar Stool

Pee is for Paris

Oui oui, Paris is the city of light, romance, fashion and fine food. But what happens after finishing that bottle of champagne when nature calls while you’re strolling down the Champs-Élysées?  Welcome to peeing in Paris.

Quel problème?

When a city of 2.1 million people has over 30 million visitors a year, it’s obvious that there are only so many thrones one can install without chipping too much into a palace’s royal rooms.  But as a tourist who recently experienced the perils of public peeing, I observed a few things that could make or break your day.

Not even a Royal Throne

The grand Palace of Versailles is sight to behold—enough to distract any bladder until the end.  Alas, I almost missed my tour bus because I had to wait 30 minutes in a line to go to the loos.  And listen to over-tanned Russians having an argument—probably about why the bloody hell people were taking so long.

Waiting

Maybe it’s a chick thing, but I swear some women were in there for a minimum of 10 minutes.  Are they reading Madame Bovary?  Doing their Lancôme makeup? Searching for wrinkles?  It takes an average of 30 seconds to pee.  Surely anything else can wait. The men have the right strategy: there never seems to be a line.

Pee-pay

I found it strange that in the land of ‘Liberty, equality, fraternity’ that one would charge others to pee.  Yes, the equivalent of Australian 75 cents is not too bad, but imagine that multiplied by three times a day x 21 days.  Or even then, at a café, having to buy a drink—which could range from $3 to up to $9—to use the loo.  At least in Vienna, spending a penny to spend a penny gets you into a burgundy silk-coated room with gilt edging and a Mozart ditty to taps one’s feet to.

Commodes without the mode

If loos were fashion, then Paris ones are those tossed into after-season sale bins—with missing buttons. Or maybe their loos are like dirty y-fronts with skid marks, flung in the corner of a mouldy bathroom. Compare the French fashion faux-pas with Changi Airport toilets in Singapore, which are like Givenchy silk haute couture, fresh from the drycleaners.

Je ne comprends pas

After the wait, finally entering the cubicle, it’s not as easy as it seems.  Firstly, some don’t have toilet seats, so you either have to crouch, get a cold butt and risk falling in.  Then the head scratching moment: whether to flush: push, pull, yank, foot pedal or leave for automatic.

Where to go: Types of loos

Right, so now you know that to do something biologically simple is logistically tricky in ‘gay Paree’.  What to do then when those three espressos to rouse you from jet-lag catch up with you?

The Loovre

Public monuments usually have loos, but there may only be three cubicles, in an area tucked behind some obscure art display.  And don’t mistake Marcel Duchamp’s artwork in Georges Pompidou for a quaint European public peeing area.   But then, desperate times call for desperate measures.  Perhaps that’s why I saw a guy willing to risk relief on a tree behind the Eiffel Tower, which is patrolled by chaps with automatic rifles.

Blast Off

Walks between one beautiful building to the next is perhaps why Paris have the sanisettes.  These single cubicle, permanent street fixtures feel like an escape pod, except instead of space age technology, you need a peg to hold your nose, and the door could open at any moment ‘in flagrante de squatto’.  There’s even a rumour going around about small children being trapped in the wash cycle that occurs after 15 minutes.

Cash to Dash

Then there’s the Relais Toilettes, aka, you pay to pee.  Usually found at train stations, the system works by the pe-er deciding from the menu (pee only, or shower, or both (or not!), then handing over the money to someone behind a glass screen.  Usually a heavy-set lady with a sour face; ‘she who allows who pees’.  So for two times the price of a two-litre bottle of water, (ranging 50-70 centimes from a supermarket) one can again walk the cobbled stones without cringing.

Bar-humbug

So why not just go into a bar?  In the rush, you may not notice that the quaint little corner brasserie doesn’t even have a toilet: tricky after you’ve just gulped down a glass of mineral water to justify your presence.  Or the locals perched on stools swearing at the football game sneer at ‘l’étranger’ and make you feel like Al Gore at a Shell company cocktail party.

Code of silence

Even family-friendly tourist havens like Maccas and KFC have the trick of locking their loos with keypad codes.  One day, after sculling a tea, I felt like throwing a seated Ronald through the glass upon pulling the lock-tight door.  Alas, it was with minor mirth that while in Nice I looked at my receipt for the first time.  Yep, you guessed it.  A code for the loos.  Sigh.
Shopping centres may not even have public toilets, or if they do, then the signs lead you through the entire shop to reach it, right next to impulse buying items such as Evian water and tranquil water devices.

Lid of luxury

There are also the fancy toilets, but I never had the pleasure of manicure services or glossy magazines.  Called the ‘PointWC’ at about 1.5 euro a visit it’s a stretch, but when you can undo all the good work with a coffee from a vending machine or buying some fake nails at the same time, why not?

General Advice:

• The key is not to wait until you need to go: use the can when you can, not when you must.
• To make this trip less random, buy Philippe Dorcourt’s booklet ‘Paris-Pause-pipi’, which lists and maps where all the sanisettes are in Paris.  Available online for approx 2,80 euros. http://www.paris.pause-pipi.fr/
• Try not to think about water while waiting in line.  And set a good example.  Get in and out like a rescue mission to the Congo…
• Which you’d probably want to do anyway due to the filth. And as for how to use, remember the four ps: push, pull, pedal, automatic. Well the last one isn’t, but I’ve mentioned pee enough haven’t I?

Toilet jokes aside, there are many people out there with conditions who need to consider in all seriousness the availability of a toilet when going places; for men, an enlarged prostate; for women a smaller bladder during pregnancy, or a weakened pelvic floor post-pregnancy. The Australian solution to this need manifests in a government-run website for public toilet locations.  The British have the ‘British Toilet Association’. But, just as we tourists cannot force the Parisians to serve tea with tealeaves, we cannot dictate the standard and quantity of public toilets.  But being aware of where to go and not go can see you strolling down those Champs-Élysées instead of sprinting cross-legged until the miracle ‘W.C.’ appears.

About the Author

I am a freelance writer and editor specialising in article and review format. I generate story ideas, conduct research and interviews then complete the piece in line with house style and expected deadlines. The underlying philosophy to any writing I do is ‘information through engagement’.

Thoroughbred Espresso Bar Stool $152 Finished in rich espresso -Features a return swivel mechanism seat

Throroughbred Espresso Stool $75.99 Update your home decor with a new stoolDining room furniture features an espresso wood finishBar stool also features a 'return swivel' mechanismStool measures 22.5 inches wide x 14.9 inches deep x 20.4 inches high

Throroughbred Espresso Counter Stool $100.99 Update your home decor with a new stoolDining room furniture features an espresso wood finishBar stool also features a 'return swivel' mechanismStool measures 23 inches wide x 16 inches deep x 26.75 inches high

24" Bar Stool in Espresso $49.99 Add a modern touch to your kitchen or bar with this 24" Bar Stool by Winsome Wood. Part of the Linea Collection, this gorgeous furniture piece was designed with a broad, flat surface that provides a comfortable place for family and guests to sit and visit. This handsome stool creates a warm and inviting welcoming area for your home and bar.Made of solid Beechwood with a stunning espresso finish, this wood stool features chrome accents that add beautiful contrast and allows this stool to blend beautifully with light or dark decor. The seat is raised from the frame by rigid rods, resulting in the unique Linea design. The chrome foot rods give your friends and family a comfortable place to rest their feet. Place by a breakfast counter or at your home bar for an instant upgrade and renovation.To complete the look, check out our entire Linea Living Room Collection . All pieces in this attractive collection were designed to accent one another and match any existing décor.Features: • Solid Beechwood construction • Chrome accents for contrast • Broad, flat surface • Sleek, simple lines • Finish: Espresso BrownSize: 24"tall x 13 3/4"square

Miles Bar / Counter Stool - Espresso $198 Surprisingly supportive, this sensuous curve provides you with several modern entertaining options. The hydraulically adjustable 24 inch- 30.5 inch seat height transforms it from counter stool to a bar stool in seconds. White leatherette swivel seat. Chrome detailing, contemporary matte steel base.

29&quotH Swivel Bar Stool Espresso Finish $121.42 " Dimension: 29" Seat Height Finish: Espresso Material: Wood, Leatherette 29"H Swivel Bar Stool Espresso Finish Item features black leatherette cushion seat. Assembly required. "

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29" Bar Stool Bevel Seat Espresso- Set of 2 $100 29" Bar Stool Bevel Seat Espresso- Set of 2 is available from bedbathstore.com for only $79.99. Shop bedbathstore for the best price and quality with Free Shipping.

Espresso Finish Wood 29&quotH High Back Swivel Bar Stool $130.56 "Espresso Finish Wood 29&quotH High Back Swivel Bar Stool This is a brand new espresso finish wood 29&quotH high back swivel bar stool. This item will make a great addition to any kitchen, bar, or dining room setting. The seat swivels as an added functionality to the stool and has cross bars for leg resting. This stool makes a great addition to seating needs in any home decor setting. Dimensions Measure: 29&quot Seat Height"

Royal Vista Espresso 30-inch Backless Bar Stool $119.99 An espresso Annigre finish highlights this Royal Vista backless bar stool. This seating features a faux leather seat with a stallion brown color.Materials: Wood, PVC faux leather Finish: Espresso AnnigreUpholstery materials: PVC (faux leather)Upholstery color: Stallion brownBackless360-degree swivelDimensions: 30.5 inches high x 17.25 inches in diameter

Hillsdale Tiburon II 30 Inch Swivel Bar Stool - Espresso - 4917-830 $189 Balanced and precise lines combine with an espresso finish and clean tapered legs to create the Tiburon II stool. Available counter and bar height swivel stools have a neutral ivory fabric. This stool bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary d

Kannoa ARI401ES0 The Espresso Aria bar stool with no cushion $516.38 Kannoa strives to connect classic and contemporary design to let create an ambiance not defined by walls but as an extension of your home s interior environment. The Espresso Aria bar stool with no cushion features sturdy aluminum frames covered with maintenance free 100 recyclable all weather wicker. Kannoa offers outdoor furniture specifically designed for weather resistance and extreme durability and can withstand temperatures ranging from 30 degrees F and up to 139 degrees F. All Kannoa products stand for Design Functionality Durability Harmony. Wicker Color: espresso. high density polymer. powder coated aluminum frame. Product Warranty: 3 Year wicker Fabric 15 year frame residential. Primary Material: high density polymer. 20X20X44. Maximum Weight Limit: 250

Keio Espresso Ash Stool/Table $520 -Accent Table/Bar Stool with Drawer and Shelf in Ash -Solid Hardwood, unsurpassed quality and design.

30&quotH Swivel Bar Stool with Padded Back in Espresso Finish $261.38 " Dimension: 18.75"W x 21.25"D x 46.25"H Seat Height: 30" Finish: Espresso, Camel Material: Rubberwood, Bentwood, Plywood, Microfiber, CA Firefoam 30"H Swivel Bar Stool with Padded Back in Espresso Finish The Padded Back Bar Stool features a rich, espresso finish. Great for homes with dark accents, this stool also has a padded seat and back for extra comfort. The legs are slightly tapered for a more elegant look, while the four foot rails provide stability and comfort. This stool is durable enough for a busy kitchen, yet elegant enough for a more formal setting. Weight Limits: 275 lbs. Assembly required. "

Set of 2 Bar Stool - 29&quotH Espresso Finish $124.54 You will receive a total of two bar stools. Dimension: 19"W x 15"D x 29"H Finish: Espresso Material: Leatherette and Wood Set of 2 Bar Stool with Leatherette - 29"H Espresso Finish Constructed of durable wood and covered in an easy to care faux leather. This set of 2 stool is sure to make a statement in your kitchen or dining room. Assembly required

30&quotH Parson Bar Stool in Espresso Bonded Leather $219.28 " Dimension: 17.25"W x 24.5"D x 47"H Finish: Espresso Material: Bonded Leather, Solid Wood 30"H Parson Bar Stool in Espresso Bonded Leather Features upholstered in espresso bonded leather. Solid wood legs in dark espresso finish. Item is made in China. Embellish your dining room with the classic beauty of this item. Also available in red and coffee. Assembly required. "

Dark Brown Bar Stool $392 Lean back at your bar or kitchen counter in comfort! The wide seat and curved backrest of this sleek leather bar stool will provide both you and your guests with a place to relax with ease while enjoying food, beverages, or each other's company. The seat of this bar chair is bonded leather in dark espresso brown. The frame and legs are solid wood with a black finish, and include non-marking feet help protect your flooring. This kitchen stool will arrive fully assembled. -Stool measures 23 inches wide x 24 inches deep x 41 inches high. -Seat height is 29 inches and depth is 17 inches.

Whitewood 1S58683 Dining Essentials Wooden Bar Height Stool Cinnamon Espresso $55.25 The 29 Saddle Seat Barstool are a fun way to add seating and style to your home. Each stool is carefully crafted of solid wood with an espresso finish on the legs and cinnamon finish on the seat. These stools have a contoured seat for comfort. Color: Espresso/Cinnamon. Capacity: 29 H x 17.5 W x 9 D.

Set of 2 Counter Bar Stool - 24&quotH Espresso Finish $93.3 You will received a total of 2 counter heights stools. Dimension: 19"W x 15"D x 24"H Finish: Espresso Material: Leatherette and Wood Set of 2 Counter Bar Stool - 24"H Espresso Finish Constructed of durable wood and covered in an easy to care faux leather. This set of 2 stool is sure to make a statement in your kitchen or dining room. Assembly required

Bar Stool with Black PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish $175.18 " Dimension: 45"H Finish: Espresso, Black Material: Wood, PVC Leather Bar Stool with Black PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish Button tufted design. Black PVC leather upholstered seat and back. With footrest. Simple design beautify any room of decor. Also available in camel, red and brown. Assembly required. "

Bar Stool with Camel PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish $175.18 " Dimension: 45"H Finish: Espresso, Camcel Material: Wood, PVC Leather Bar Stool with Camel PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish Button tufted design. Camel PVC leather upholstered seat and back. With footrest. Item embellish the beauty of your dining room. Also available in red, brown and black. Assembly required. "

Bar Stool with Red PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish $175.18 " Dimension: 45"H Finish: Espresso, Red Material: Wood, PVC Leather Bar Stool with Red PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish Button tufted design. Red PVC leather upholstered seat and back. With footrest. Beautify the room of decor. Also available in camel, brown and black. Assembly required. "

Bar Stool with Brown PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish $175.18 " Dimension: 45"H Finish: Espresso, Brown Material: Wood, PVC Leather Bar Stool with Brown PVC and Button Tufted in Espresso Finish Button tufted design. Brown PVC leather upholstered seat and back. With footrest. Item embellish the beauty of your dining room. Also available in camel, red and black. Assembly required. "

30&quotH Square Bar Stool with Vinyl Top in Espresso Finish $126.36 " Dimension: 14.75"W x 14.75"D x 30.25"H Finish: Espresso Material: Vinyl, Solid Wood 30"H Square Bar Stool with Vinyl Top in Espresso Finish Features durable padded black vinyl top with espresso finish solid wood legs. Item is made in Vietnam. Embellish your dining room with the classic beauty of this item. Assembly required. "

Cafe Espresso 24-Inch Bar Stool $158 -Select hardwoods solids and veneers -Swivel -Nylon chair guides

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Winsome 92724 Linea 23 Bar Stool Espresso w/Chrome $53.16 For over three decades Winsome Furniture has been a manufacturer and distributor of high quality pantryware and lifestyle furniture for the home. Specializing in solid wood Winsome has continually brought forth innovative products in combinations of solid wood and other various materials such as wrought iron aluminum steel marble and glass. Decorate in your style and display only the best quality today. This stylish and sturdy bar stool comes in an attractive dark espresso finish made of solid beechwood. With its broad square seat and sleek design the Linea bar stool adds a modern touch to any kitchen. Fits the Linea Kitchen Island Product has a Dark Espresso finish not a Black finish chrome footrests Dimensions: 22.87 H x 13.75 W x 13.75 D Made of Solid Beechwood Suited for Residential use only

30&quotH Bar Stool with Tufted Espresso Leatherette in Brown Finish $238.46 " Dimension: 18.11"W x 21.65"D x 41.14"H Seat Height: 30" Finish: Espresso, Brown Material: Solid Wood, MDF, Bonded Leather, CA Firefoam 30"H Bar Stool with Tufted Espresso Leatherette in Brown Finish The rich espresso finish on this bar stool highlights the luxurious tufted brown faux leather upholstery. Non-swiveling seat and durable wood frame and legs compliment this simple, yet sophisticated stool. The ample seat and back are upholstered in padded faux leather that's incredibly luxurious and easy to clean, while the transitional design makes it a great addition to any decor. Includes an optional metal foot rest to help prevent wear and tear. Weight Limits: 275 lbs. Also available in black. Assembly required. "

29&quotH Bar Stool - Contemporary Dark Espresso Finish $319 " Dimension: 18"W x 21"D x 46"H Dimension of the Seat: 17"W x 16.5"D x 29"H Footrest Height: 13.6"H Finish: Dark Espresso Material: Wood / Leather 29&quotH Barstool - Contemporary Dark Espresso Finish A leather bar stool with a classic design, this chair features deep espresso bycast leather upholstering all seating areas and includes light padding underneath for comfort.

Brown Bar Stool $275 A leather bar stool with a classic design, this chair features deep espresso brown bi-cast leather upholstering all seating areas and includes light padding underneath for comfort. The frame and legs are wood, which have been stained black. The result of adding this traditional bar stool to your home or business is an instant increase in sophistication and, of course, functional seating options. -Chair: 18"W x 21"D x 46"H -Seat: 17"W x 16.5"D x 29"H -Footrest: 13.6"H from floor

30&quotH Swivel Bar Stool with Wheat Back in Espresso Finish $286.34 " Dimension: 18.25"W x 21.5"D x 46.75"H Finish: Espresso, Ivory Material: Wood, Fabric 30"H Swivel Bar Stool with Wheat Back in Espresso Finish Features ivory fabric upholstered seat and wheat back. Balanced and precise lines combine with an espresso finish and clean tapered legs. This item bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary design to become a prefect addition to your bar area or kitchen. Item is made in Malaysia. Add elegance and style to your home with this magnificent item. Assembly required. "

Bar Stool $119.99 Bar Stool - Framed Art Print

Contemporary Espresso Finish 23&quotH Bar Stool $103.24 " Dimension: 13.75"W 13.75"D 22.75"H Finish: Espresso Material: Beech Wood With its broad square seat and sleek design, the Linea barstool adds a modern touch to any kitchen. Matching bench, phone stand end table and console table are sold separately. Assembly required. "

Linon 01834ESP01ASU TrienaMission Back Folding Bar Stool 30 Inch Espresso $120.26 Linon Home Decor Products has established a reputation in the market for providing the best trendright products at the right price while offering excellent quality style and functional furnishing to every room in the home. Linon remains committed to providing quality product and service that are unequalled in our business Stylish seating with the convenience of a folding bar stool. This folding stool adds an extra dash of elegance for dining or entertaining. The wood frames feature a classic Mission Back and a wipe clean vinyl padded seat with the appearance of leather and a rich Espresso finish. Front and rear supports provide extra stability. The space saving stool fold for easy set up and storage. No assembly required. Rich Espresso Finish. Dark Brown Vinyl Padded Seat. Folds for easy set up and storage. Front and rear supports provide extra stability. Fully Assembled. Assembled Dimensions: 16.88 w x 20.13 d x 42.88 h. Material: Plywood rubberwood PVC CA firefoam. Assembly: Fully Assembled. Weight Limit: 225 lbs.

Kannoa ARI401ES56001 The Espresso Aria bar stool with dolce oasis cushion $600.21 Kannoa strives to connect classic and contemporary design to let create an ambiance not defined by walls but as an extension of your home s interior environment. The Espresso Aria bar stool with dolce oasis cushion features sturdy aluminum frames powder coated and woven with maintenance free 100 recyclable all weather wicker. Kannoa offers outdoor furniture specifically designed for weather resistance and extreme durability and can withstand temperature ranging from 30 degrees F and up to 139 degrees F. All Kannoa products stand for Design Functionality Durability Harmony. Wicker Color: espresso. Cusion Color: Dolce Oasis. high density polymer. powder coated aluminum frame. fire retardant foam CA 117 Certifed. Cushions are 98 UV resistant. Product Warranty: 3 Year wicker Fabric 15 year frame residential. Primary Material: high density polymer. 20X20X44. Maximum Weight Limit: 250

Kannoa ARI401ES5403 The Espresso Aria bar stool with jockey red cushion $600.21 Kannoa strives to connect classic and contemporary design to let create an ambiance not defined by walls but as an extension of your home s interior environment. The Espresso Aria bar stool with jockey red cushion features sturdy aluminum frames covered with maintenance free 100 recyclable all weather wicker. Kannoa offers outdoor furniture specifically designed for weather resistance and extreme durability and can withstand temperatures ranging from 30 degrees F and up to 139 degrees F. All Kannoa products stand for Design Functionality Durability Harmony. Wicker Color: espresso. Cusion Color: Jockey Red. high density polymer. powder coated aluminum frame. fire retardant foam CA 117 Certifed. Cushions are 98 UV resistant. Product Warranty: 3 Year wicker Fabric 15 year frame residential. Primary Material: high density polymer. 20X20X44. Maximum Weight Limit: 250

Kannoa ARI401ES5422 The Espresso Aria bar stool with antique beige cushion $600.21 Kannoa strives to connect classic and contemporary design to let create an ambiance not defined by walls but as an extension of your home s interior environment. The Espresso Aria bar stool with antique beige cushion features sturdy aluminum frames covered with maintenance free 100 recyclable all weather wicker. Kannoa offers outdoor furniture specifically designed for weather resistance and extreme durability and can withstand temperatures ranging from 30 degrees F and up to 139 degrees F. All Kannoa products stand for Design Functionality Durability Harmony. Wicker Color: espresso. Cusion Color: Antique Beige. high density polymer. powder coated aluminum frame. fire retardant foam CA 117 Certifed. Cushions are 98 UV resistant. Product Warranty: 3 Year wicker Fabric 15 year frame residential. Primary Material: high density polymer. 20X20X44. Maximum Weight Limit: 250

Kannoa ARI401ES56000 The Espresso Aria bar stool with dolce mango cushion $600.21 Kannoa strives to connect classic and contemporary design to let create an ambiance not defined by walls but as an extension of your home s interior environment. The Espresso Aria bar stool with dolce mango cushion features sturdy aluminum frames covered with maintenance free 100 recyclable all weather wicker. Kannoa offers outdoor furniture specifically designed for weather resistance and extreme durability and can withstand temperatures ranging from 30 degrees F and up to 139 degrees F. All Kannoa products stand for Design Functionality Durability Harmony. Wicker Color: espresso. Cusion Color: Dolce Mango. high density polymer. powder coated aluminum frame. fire retardant foam CA 117 Certifed. Cushions are 98 UV resistant. Product Warranty: 3 Year wicker Fabric 15 year frame residential. Primary Material: high density polymer. 20X20X44. Maximum Weight Limit: 250

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