die Dusche

After living in Germany for the past month, I now understand why Germans (and possibly all Europeans) only shower every three to four days. Showering in Germany is both challenging and lukewarm:


For starters, many showers have hand-held spouts. Saving water is the concept of this model. Instead of leaving the water running while lathering and shampooing, showerers are supposed to turn off the "Wasser" during this time and only use it to wet and rinse. However, the challenge of this method is trying not to spray water all over the bathroom, which is much easier said than done:




Additionally, many bathrooms have special water heaters for their sinks and tubs. Ten minutes before shower time, it is up to the showerer to remember to turn on the water heater. Then, once the hot water is out, it's out...and the showerer is out of luck:


I do believe that saving water is great. And, I am usually very green. But currently I miss my relaxing, every-other-day routine.