We've never been on a clothing-optional vacation. What's it like?
A clothing optional vacation is just like your other vacations - with one major exception - you don't have to wear clothes. A growing number of people are enjoying these types of vacations and a growing number of first class resorts are offering the option to go topless or nude.
Clothing-Optional or Nude recreation has been the norm in Europe for many years, and while a bit slow to "catch on" in the US proper, it is becoming very popular, especially in Caribbean destinations catering to American tourists.
It's not at all unusual for the first timer to be a little nervous getting started, but once they get out of their clothes, any nervousness quickly disappears.
There are two pretty good methods of going about getting "nekkid" for the first time.
1. A lot of first timers will choose destinations that are clothing optional for their first trip. Optional means exactly what it implies - you can choose to go with or without your bathing suit. Many of the finer resorts like the Grand Lido's in Jamaica all have clothing optional beaches. This way you can work out of your suit a bit more slowly until you are comfortable.
2. Just jump right in and "Go for it". If you have already made the decision to go to a clothing optional or nude beach you have already passed the biggest hurdle. When you get there, head out to the nude beach or pool, and quickly strip all the way out of your clothing, just like you have been doing it all of you life. Remember... All those other people are "nekked" too... so it's not a big thing for them to see you in your birthday suit.
What are the people like?
Just like you and me! In our travels to clothing optional or nude destinations we have met all types of folks including businessmen, entrepreneurs, secretaries, doctors, professionals, office & factory workers alike. The great thing about going to a clothing optional destination is that everybody is the same. Any pretensions of class or position are usually quickly lost and everybody seems to fit together and socialize together.
My body is far from perfect. Won't I be embarrassed?
If you're going to a nude beach expecting to see a nude version of "Baywatch" you're likely to be disappointed or relieved as the case may be. One quick look around a nude beach and you will soon realize that as we mentioned before, most everyone is just like you and me. You see bodies of all types, shapes and sizes - tall, short, calorically challenged (thin), calorically endowed (um... opposite of thin), black, white, brown and everything in between. Not wearing clothes is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Wayne, our webmaster, relates his observations about some of his visits to resorts that have both "textile" and "nude" beaches. He finds that the people on the "clothed" sections of the beaches always seem to be MUCH more body conscious than on the nude beach. Always tugging and adjusting suits so they look just right, while the folks on the nude beach are relaxed and comfortable. We have noticed exactly the same thing.
What's the difference between Clothing Optional (C/O) and Nudist facilities?
A resort or beach that is Clothing Optional means that you can be dressed or nude in the designated areas - your choice. Many first timers prefer Clothing Optional locations because it gives them a chance to "ease" out of their clothes. A Nude or Nudist facility or beach usually means that you are expected to be out of your clothes completely in the designated areas.
What do I do about "Woody" or "That Time" of the Month?
For the guys:
Don't think that just because you have stepped out on a nude beach your are going to get an automatic stiffy. Sure its possible, but actually its pretty unlikely. But if it does happen just roll over on your stomach for a while, or cover up with a towel until the "situation" subsides. We have noticed over the last few years though that the medical miracle known as the "little blue pill" has had a noticeable effect at clothing optional and nude resorts, especially around the pool or spa at night. We're not telling you what to do, but just remember that the effects from those things can be pretty long lasting.
For the gals:
What bad timing, Huh? But don't worry about it, just go with the flow... so to speak. Usually women on their heavy days will simply don a bathing suit bottom and go on having a great time. On lighter days, most women just do away with the bottoms and just tuck the string. No big deal... either way.
What's this I hear about "Nude Etiquette"?
Any clothing optional or nude facility may have their own rules, but generally the following guidelines will be appropriate.
* Always keep a towel handy and put it over any furniture you sit on. (Good hygiene)
* Don't stare or "gawk" at other people who are nude.
* Refrain from any crude or lewd remarks about another persons body or appearance.
* No photography. Save your picture taking for when nobody else is around and/or ask permission if anyone else is going to be included in your photographs or videos.
* Observe the "rules of the house". If a facility designates that clothing must be worn in certain areas, or at certain times - please comply.
What about sex?
Personally... we are very much in favor of sex!!! Oh... you mean public displays of sexual activity that you might have heard about at some resorts?
One thing to clarify about the subject for newcomers as well as a reminder to "seasoned veterans" is that public resorts we travel to don't officially condone public sex. Take it to the privacy of your room or management can escort you off the property. Sexual harassment is not permitted, is against the law in most places, and clothing optional or Nudist resorts certainly don't allow it. and... No means No.
Now with all of that said... let's get real here. Most all the resorts we feature are absolutely stunning in their beauty and are truly a romantic dream come true. In addition many of the resorts are for couples only. Sooooo... lets mix a romantic atmosphere, a few potent umbrella drinks, a butt naked couple on a moonlit beach, and it isn't uncommon for inhibitions to "fly out the window", so to speak.
At most resorts, people are careful to share their "private moments" discreetly out and away from others, but at other resorts some people can be quite the exhibitionists some times. Managements enforcement of the "no public sex" policy is often inconsistent and a lot depends on the mixture of guests at a particular resort at any given time.
The bottom line is that some resorts are pretty laid back and sedate most of the time, but others can have a pretty highly sexually charged atmosphere most of the time. Again we can't stress enough how important it is, especially for first timers, to discuss with us what you want out of your vacation. We want to help you make the right choice for you, but we can do that only if we know what you are looking for.
