Tourists Speak Up About What Surprised Them Most When Visiting the United States

Public bathroom stalls in America can feel shockingly exposed. The doors often have wide gaps at the sides, and the bottom space can be high enough to see shoes, bags, and movement. Visitors used to full-length doors may wonder why a country so private about many things accepts so little privacy here.

The design is partly about cost, cleaning, safety, and maintenance. Shorter partitions are cheaper, easier to install, and simpler for staff to clean around. The gaps also let people see whether a stall is occupied and allow emergency access if needed. Practicality won out, even if the result feels awkward.