A hotel in a resort frequented by Romanians in Bulgaria has sparked controversy after it started charging 5 euros to use the toilet.
A hotel in the Bulgarian resort of Borovets caused an online scandal after it started charging 5 euros to use its toilets, writes Novinite. The case was brought to public attention by Daniel Dimitrov in the framework “The Ski and Snowboard Group” from Facebook, highlighting the controversial practice.
In his post, Dimitrov expressed his frustration and embarrassment, noting that in most European ski resorts, toilets are either included in the price of the ski pass or offered free of charge, with low-cost options available to visitors.
He clarified his criticisms were not directed at the hotel itself, which he described as merely finding a solution to avoid using its facility as a public toilet, but rather at the lack of public infrastructure.
Dimitrov suggested that the Tourism Law should require accessible toilets in both winter and summer resorts, in proportion to tourist capacity.
The post sparked a heated discussion within the group, with many users comparing Borovets to ski resorts abroad. “I have never seen a pay toilet anywhere in Austria or Italy, and open parking is free everywhere”one user commented.
Another added: “That’s why I’m skiing in Italy this year – coffee costs 1.50-2 euros and you don’t have to pay to use the toilet”. Others noted that using hotel restrooms abroad is generally cheaper and more convenient.
However, some panelists defended the hotel, explaining that it cannot be blamed for charging high prices in the absence of public facilities in Borovets, which leave tourists with no alternative. Others shared anecdotes about the cost of coffee in local resorts, noting that an espresso and cappuccino together can cost as much as 12 euros.
