This design of toilet is still in effect throughout
the Netherlands, and the only apparent advantage (other than the opportunity to inspect your own
solid waste), is that it allows you to successfully avoid
toilet splashback.
One other peculiarity about Dutch bathrooms is in the design of their urinals. Do not be suprised if you find a small fly painted near the drain of the urinal. He is there for your own safety. By aiming your stream at the fly, you will be targeting the exact point of minimum splash-back, and thereby ensure your trousers remain fresh.
Amazingly, this actually works.