Speaking to other sauna-goers, I got the impression there were many regulars who would go there and meet other regulars.
People were hanging out there watching TV and having a chat. Whilst wandering around I visited the steam room, sauna and the TV room which came complete with water fountain and drinks vending machines. The pervasive groans and dim silhouettes of multiple bodies left little the imagination, but I didn’t feel ready to gift my bottom to just anybody.
The dark room (it’s very dark) was a bit much for me but this was primarily because I didn’t know how to conduct myself. It was rather busy so I thought this rather inconsiderate. Men also position themselves on the edge of some doors groping themselves which is much the same as cruising but they’ve already claimed their room. If you pop your head in when this is going on, as I did, you either get a shake of the head, as I did, or you’re welcomed in. If the door is open and something’s going on it’s a possible invitation to watch or join in.
If they’re sitting up they seem to want a bit more of a mixture. If there’s somebody in there lying in their front, and exposing their bottom … well I think you can guess.
I found myself becoming pretty choosy within minutes, which was a surprise.įor rooms that are occupied there seems to be a code (I’m happy to be corrected here). There were a lot of quite old, overweight and unattractive men there. It was also interesting because it gives you an idea how women feel when men look at them. I’m not the kind of guy who gets admiring glances from women in general, so to be looked at like that was a pleasant surprise. The thing that’s really interesting from a straight guy’s point of view is that in this environment you’re seen as an object of desire instead of the pursuer. No codified rehearsal of buying drinks and dating a few times – you just get it on. Simply put, if at any point catch somebody’s eye and the gaze is held then it’s generally on. I’d read about ‘cruising’ before, and read about bars being ‘cruisey’ but never experienced it. Events and Offers Sign up to receive information regarding NS events, subscription offers & product updates. Ideas and Letters A newsletter showcasing the finest writing from the ideas section and the NS archive, covering political ideas, philosophy, criticism and intellectual history - sent every Wednesday. Weekly Highlights A weekly round-up of some of the best articles featured in the most recent issue of the New Statesman, sent each Saturday. The Culture Edit Our weekly culture newsletter – from books and art to pop culture and memes – sent every Friday.
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