The hotel industry is undergoing a quiet revolution, and it's not about luxury spas or rooftop pools. It's about the bathroom, specifically the door. Many hotels are ditching solid bathroom doors in favor of more cost-effective and 'modern' designs, but this change isn't sitting well with all travelers. The Wall Street Journal reports that mid-range and boutique hotels are increasingly opting for frosted glass, sliding barn doors, curtains, or partial walls in place of traditional doors. These new features often fail to provide the level of privacy and soundproofing that guests expect, leading to some travelers feeling uneasy about the change. But what's the big deal? For hotel executives, the answer is simple: cost savings. Traditional doors are expensive, block natural light, and can be a maintenance nightmare. So, some are questioning whether bathrooms even need doors at all, experimenting with open-concept designs where sinks and showers are in the main room, and toilets are tucked behind glass or in small nooks. While some travelers are indifferent to the change, others are not. Digital marketer Sadie Lowell has launched a campaign called 'Bring Back Doors,' emailing hotels to inquire about their bathroom door policies. She's even created a public list of hotels that offer minimal or no privacy, currently numbering 500. But what's the alternative? Cathy Adams, writing for The Times of London, suggests making full use of the lobby restrooms, as they are there for a reason. However, the real question remains: is the convenience of cost-cutting worth the potential loss of privacy for guests? This debate is far from over, and it's one that hoteliers and travelers alike will need to address as the industry continues to evolve.
