For globe-trotting travelers, few things are as universally appreciated as walking into a cool, air-conditioned room after a long, sweaty day of sightseeing. And yet, HVAC comfort—how it’s provided, prioritized, or totally ignored—varies wildly depending on where you are in the world.
Having spent years hopping between countries and climates, we’ve sweated through the jungles of Southeast Asia, shivered in the highlands of Peru, and slept like royalty under ceiling fans in the Mediterranean. In this article, we’ll share what we’ve learned about HVAC systems (and their many alternatives) from a global perspective—where comfort means something different in every zip code.
Let’s take a climate-controlled world tour, shall we?
1. Japan – Where Technology Meets Tranquility
Japan doesn’t mess around when it comes to comfort. Even in older ryokans or humble Airbnb rentals, you’ll often find wall-mounted split AC units with remote controls more complex than a TV setup. These systems, known as mini-splits, allow for precise temperature control in each room—a blessing in a country with humid summers and cold winters.
One thing we noticed: the Japanese are incredibly energy-conscious. People are meticulous about turning off units when they leave the room, and systems often have “eco” modes that automatically adjust based on occupancy and humidity.
Fun fact: Public restrooms often have heated toilet seats but no central heat. Priorities, right?
2. Italy – The Art of Natural Cooling
Ah, Italy. Land of pasta, Vespas, and… unexpectedly warm nights. Many historic buildings in Italy weren’t designed with modern HVAC in mind. Instead, Italians rely heavily on natural ventilation—opening windows at night, drawing shutters during the day, and positioning homes to capture breezes from the coast or countryside.
We once stayed in a 600-year-old stone farmhouse in Tuscany where the only “cooling system” was thick walls and good airflow. And honestly? It worked.
In cities, modern split units are more common, especially in hotels or newer apartments. But even then, they’re rarely cranked to icy American levels. Italians favor a mild climate over a blast of Arctic air.
3. Thailand – Cold Air as a Luxury
Thailand’s heat is relentless—and air conditioning is treated like a precious gem. Most rentals or hotel rooms have single-room AC units, and they’re often coin-operated or tied to room keys so they only run when you’re inside.
You’ll find:
- Wall-mounted split systems in private homes and guesthouses
- Portable AC units or fans in budget accommodations
- Ceiling fans + open windows in coastal or rural areas
We learned quickly to pack lightweight pajamas and embrace a little sweat. But we also developed a new appreciation for ceiling fans—seriously, they’re underrated.
4. United States – The Gold Standard of HVAC (Most of the Time)
Back in the States, central air conditioning is often taken for granted. From sprawling suburban homes to strip mall stores, you’ll find ducted systems blasting cool air like it’s going out of style. In places like Arizona or Florida, HVAC is not just a comfort—it’s survival.
Modern systems are programmable, energy-efficient, and whisper-quiet. Companies like Pro-Tech Air in Palm Beach, FL specialize in advanced residential and commercial HVAC systems that adapt to both Florida’s humid summers and occasional cold snaps.
And let’s be honest: there’s nothing quite like walking into a Publix grocery store in July and being hit with that wave of chilled air. Chef’s kiss.
5. Mexico – A Mix of Modern and Traditional
In Mexico, especially in cities like Mérida or Puerto Vallarta, HVAC comfort depends on geography and income. Luxury condos and hotels will have modern split systems or central air. But in traditional homes, you’ll often find:
- Cross-ventilation designs
- Ceiling fans in every room
- Windows without glass (but with bars or screens)
In the highlands, such as San Cristóbal de las Casas, it’s a different story—homes need heating more than cooling. Fireplaces, portable electric heaters, and thick blankets do the trick.
Travel tip: if you’re headed to Mexico in summer, don’t assume your Airbnb has AC—always check.
6. The UK – Confused About Climate Control
Brits love to talk about the weather, but their homes don’t always reflect that obsession. Central air is nearly non-existent in most UK homes, even during the occasional summer heatwave.
Instead, people rely on:
- Radiators (fed by a boiler) for heating
- Fans or open windows for cooling
- A stiff upper lip when it gets too hot or cold
We spent a week in London during a 95°F heatwave with nothing but a small fan between us and insanity. Lesson learned: pack a personal fan if you’re visiting in July.
7. Australia – Split Systems Reign Supreme
Australia is hot. Really hot. And yet, ducted central air is less common than you’d expect. Instead, Aussies rely heavily on:
- Split-system ACs, often with heating and cooling functions
- Evaporative coolers in dry areas
- Ceiling fans + high ceilings to circulate air
What struck us most was the focus on zoned control—each room often has its own unit, allowing for better efficiency and comfort. It’s a clever, eco-conscious solution that’s gaining popularity elsewhere too.
8. India – Embracing Efficiency
India’s climate ranges from scorching to freezing, depending on where you are. In cities like Delhi or Mumbai, wall-mounted ACs are common in middle- to upper-class homes and hotels. But in more rural areas, many families use:
- Ceiling fans (ubiquitous and often decorative)
- Desert coolers (a type of evaporative cooler that uses water-soaked pads)
- Cross-ventilation with tall, open windows
Interestingly, we found that many newer buildings are designed with passive cooling in mind—overhangs, courtyards, and whitewashed walls that reflect heat.
Types of HVAC Systems We’ve Encountered
After all our travels, here’s a quick breakdown of the HVAC systems we’ve slept under, around the globe:
- Mini-Split Systems – Found in Asia, Europe, Australia, and high-end rentals globally. Compact, efficient, and perfect for single-room cooling.
- Central Air – King in the U.S., especially in newer homes. Great for whole-house comfort.
- Window Units – Still common in older buildings across the U.S., Mexico, and parts of Asia.
- Evaporative Coolers – Best in dry climates like Australia and India.
- Radiators – The UK, Eastern Europe, and older buildings everywhere.
- Natural Ventilation – From breezy Balinese villas to stone homes in Portugal, nature still does a lot of the heavy lifting.
What Travelers Can Teach You About Home Comfort
Here’s what years of international HVAC experiences taught us:
- You don’t always need central air – With good design, airflow, and insulation, many homes stay comfortable using simpler methods.
- Ceiling fans matter – They’re energy-efficient and surprisingly effective. Plus, they keep mosquitoes away!
- Zoned comfort is efficient comfort – Mini-splits or zoned duct systems let you only cool or heat what you use.
- Don’t overlook maintenance – No matter the system, regular service makes a huge difference. (Looking at you, frozen coil in Bangkok.)
- Cultural expectations shape comfort – What feels too hot or too cold depends heavily on what you’re used to. A Florida summer is heaven to someone from Stockholm. Or maybe not.
Final Thoughts: Stay Cool, Wherever You Are
While HVAC systems may vary across the world, one thing is clear: comfort is universal. Whether you’re dozing under a fan in Morocco or stepping into a chilled kitchen in Miami, how you cool (or heat) your home matters.