Skinny Dip, Author at Skinny Dip

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Promoting open and healthy discussions around sexuality, intimacy, and relationships is what National Sex Day is all about. This is celebrated to encourage individuals to be more open and accepting of sexual identities and embrace differences. Sexuality is a very natural component of human nature and it deserves understanding, respect, and positive engagement. Human sexuality is incredibly diverse and exploring desires should be encouraged, not just for pleasure, but also to improve the relationship one has with oneself.

Here are ten ways in which you can celebrate National Sex Day and experience pleasure without feeling guilty about it. Whether you want to ride solo, with your partner, or with another couple, succumb to your desires and let them take you to another world.

Start Swiping

We know dating apps can be cumbersome. But maybe you deserve to go on a date and then get some on National Sex Day. without overthinking, install the app and get swiping. You may end up having a really good time! And if you do not want to go through the trouble of finding a date, you can always hire an escort.

Explore Dirty Talk

Dirty talk is one of the most underrated forms of foreplay. There is a lot you can explore in this regard, especially since this is related to a lot of kinks people have. Dirty talk appeals to our creative senses and can make things quite spicy. Start by talking about what you would like to do and how, and then take it ahead from there.

Talk about Sex with Your Friends

Whenever we celebrate something, we also talk about it. Then why do we stay hushed up when it comes to our sex lives? Talking about sex quashes the taboos around it, and these taboos need to be quashed. Talking about sex with friends can normalize certain practices, as well as spark your imagination.

Touch Yourself

What’s National Sex Day without a little bit of ‘self-love’? Cancel your plans to go out and stay in, maybe take a nice warm shower and indulge in yourself. Read your favorite spicy book, or watch a spicy movie as you go on to help you get a little nudge. If you want to involve your partner in it, you could indulge in mutual masturbation.

Educate People Around You

Of course, this does not mean going up to random people and asking them about their sex lives! But you could always involve your family and friends and teach them about safe sex. For example, if you have pre-teen kids, this might be a good time to have ‘the talk’ with them. Children are naturally inquisitive and are very likely to look up porn online and get the wrong idea about sex. It might be an awkward conversation, but one day, your kids will thank you for teaching them about sex safely and healthily.

Buy a Sex Toy

There are many different varieties of sex toys out there, and the best part is, you can use these by yourself or with a partner. Why not celebrate this momentous day by getting yourself a new toy, maybe something you have not tried yet?

Get Nude

While getting bare in the privacy of the bedroom is something safe and comfortable, doing so in public can certainly be a very daunting, yet exhilarating experience. You could visit a nude beach, spa or resort and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Embracing your nudity is an act of self-love because people have for long looked up to Eurocentric standards as the standard for beauty. Moreover, documenting your thoughts and feelings during the process can be a great way to reflect on yourself.

Have Sex Outdoors

Now this is something not a lot of people try, mainly because it is illegal in a lot of places. But then again, the forbidden fruit IS the sweetest. As long as you exercise caution, having sex outdoors can be a very thrilling experience. What better way to celebrate National Sex Day than doing something so daring?

Explore Polyamory

This might be a bit of a disputed territory, but hear us out, we know polyamory isn’t for everyone. But how would you know it isn’t for you if you don’t give it a try? Polyamory can be a very rewarding experience since there are more than two people involved. You could attend a sex party near you, and even if you do not want to participate, you could try socializing and trying to explore the limits of your sexuality.

Try Bondage

Bondage is usually associated with very rough sex, but it does not necessarily have to be that way. It could be as simple as tying your partner up or getting tied down yourself and engaging in the act. The sensation of touch plays a significant role in our feeling of pleasure during sex, so when you are deprived of that, your other senses can become more active, making you experience a whole different level of pleasure.

Take this opportunity to explore what you have always wanted to do and test your limits. Make this day all about you and your pleasure.

This is a guest post written by Lisa Watson. Thanks for supporting the content that supports this blog.

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, offers a vibrant and diverse dating scene. With an eclectic mix of cultures, neighborhoods, and attractions, there is no shortage of unique experiences for couples to enjoy. To help you navigate the intricacies of dating in Toronto, we’ve compiled a list of essential dos and don’ts.

Explore Toronto’s Multicultural Charm

Do: Express What You Want

When it comes to dating in Toronto, it’s important to express what you are looking for. Whether you’re seeking a casual date, something more serious, or to find a sugar baby in Toronto, being upfront about your expectations will ensure that everyone is on the same page and can make for an experience.

Don’t: Stick to Your Comfort Zone

Avoid limiting yourself to your usual social circles and preferred hangout spots. Branch out and explore new neighborhoods, events, and social gatherings to meet a diverse range of potential partners. Remember, Toronto’s charm lies in its multicultural atmosphere, so don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.

Plan Memorable Dates

Do: Be Adventurous and Creative

Toronto offers a wealth of unique date ideas, from scenic walks along the waterfront to the city’s thriving arts scene. When planning a date, consider your partner’s interests and try to find activities that you both will enjoy. Some memorable date options include:

Strolling through the Distillery District
Taking a cooking class together
Attending a live performance at a local theater
Exploring an art gallery or museum

Don’t: Rely on Traditional Date Ideas

While dinner and a movie may be the tried-and-true formula for a date, it’s important to think outside the box when dating in Toronto. The city boasts a plethora of creative and unconventional date spots, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new.

Mind Your Manners

Do: Be Polite and Respectful

Toronto’s residents are known for their friendly and polite demeanor. Embrace this attitude by being courteous and attentive to your date. Show genuine interest in getting to know them, listen carefully to what they have to say, and be considerate of their feelings.

Don’t: Be Late or Glued to Your Phone

Punctuality is essential when dating in Toronto. Arriving late can give the impression that you don’t value your date’s time. Also, make a conscious effort to avoid checking your phone constantly during the date. This will show your date that you are fully engaged and interested in the conversation.

Navigate the Dating Scene Responsibly

Do: Prioritize Your Safety

While Toronto is considered a safe city, it’s still essential to prioritize your safety when dating. Always meet in a public place for your first few dates, and let a friend or family member know your plans. Trust your instincts and be cautious when sharing personal information with someone new.

Don’t: Overshare on Social Media

While it may be tempting to share every detail of your dating life on social media, it’s crucial to maintain some level of privacy. Avoid posting too much information about your dates or potential partners, as this can make some people uncomfortable and may even jeopardize your safety.

Be Patient and Open-Minded

Do: Take Your Time

Toronto’s dating scene can be fast-paced, but it’s important to take your time and not rush into anything. Allow yourself the opportunity to truly get to know someone before jumping into a serious relationship. This patience will help you build a strong foundation for a lasting connection.

Don’t: Be Discouraged by Rejection

Rejection is an inevitable part of dating, and it’s essential to accept it gracefully. If a date doesn’t go as planned or a potential partner doesn’t share your feelings, remind yourself that there are plenty of other people in Toronto’s vast dating pool. Maintain a positive attitude and keep searching for someone who shares your interests and values.

Communication is Key

Do: Be Honest and Clear

When dating in Toronto, it’s essential to maintain open and honest communication with your potential partner. If you have certain expectations or desires, make sure to express them clearly. This will help you and your date to understand each other better and avoid misunderstandings.

Don’t: Ghost or Ignore Your Date

Ghosting or ignoring someone is never a good idea, regardless of where you’re dating. If you’re not interested in pursuing a relationship with someone, be upfront and let them know. It’s better to be honest and respectful than to leave them wondering and waiting for a response that will never come.

In 2009, I started this blog because I wanted a place to tell stories and process the romantic wreckage of my twenties and later, thirties. I chose the name Skinny Dip because I thought it was a good metaphor for writing about your life online – it’s naked and it’s risky but it’s a hell of a lot of fun. Over the past few years, however, this blog has stopped feeling like home.

Lately, I’m craving community and connection. To borrow from my previous metaphor, if I’m going to be figuratively skinny dipping, I want to do it at a private pool, not the public beach. If you want to find me, I’ve launched Love, Peace & Tacos, a bi-weekly newsletter where I’ll be sharing personal stories, sexy product recommendations, travel tips, and insights into my life as a full-time writer. I hope you subscribe here 💓

I’ve also launched a podcast!

For a couple of years, I’ve wanted to bring the stories from Skinny Dip to audio and We’re Never Doing This Again does just that. If you loved the OG days of my blog, you’ll likely enjoy the podcast! Each week I bring on a different talented guest to discuss an array of hilarious dating mishaps and hijinx. So far we’ve covered a date who lied about stabbing people (!!) (with Almie Rose), a weird weekend at a single’s camp in the woods (with Casey Palmer), and the peaks and valleys of dating in a small town (with Peter DeWolf).

It’s a fun time and I really hope you join me on this journey!

A few years ago, I spent a week staying at both Desire Riviera Maya Resort and Desire Pearl — two clothing optional couples only all inclusive resorts located just outside Cancun, Mexico.

The plan was simple: meet up with one of my best friends, Mark, and two other friends (a couple) for some much needed R&R under the sun. Bathing suits optional.

I was there as a journalist to write about the properties, but over the course of the week I ended up falling in love with the clothing optional resort experience.

Truth be told, inaugural visit to the Desire resorts wasn’t my first “nakation.” Before Covid, I spent 10 months traveling from Mexico to Jamaica and back again, visiting clothing optional resorts — including Desire’s sister property Temptation Cancun — to write about them for my weekly Toronto Sun column.

People always have questions about what it’s like to visit clothing optional adult resorts and go skinny dipping in the tropics. If you’re reading this, you probably do too!

So, let’s start with the most frequently asked questions about going to Desire for the first time.

Are people naked all the time?

Desire resorts are clothing-optional. This means that you have the option of being naked in most areas of the resort. However, if you’re worried you’ll see errant appendages pressed against the sneeze-guard at the morning omelette station, fear not. Clothing is required in the main dining areas for obvious reasons.

Should I go to Desire Riviera Maya or Desire Pearl?

This is probably the most common question I get. My answer: it all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Before I arrived, I was told that Desire Riviera Maya has a more lively party atmosphere, whereas Desire Pearl is quieter and more retreat-like. This generally held true.

The daily schedule at Desire Riviera Maya. See: Human Dessert

If you’re looking to make new friends (or playmates), Desire Riviera Maya is where it’s at. Designed to feel like a village, the property consists of a cluster of low rises that face tropical gardens and the Caribbean sea. Dreamy daybeds with flowing white curtains flank the beach and pool areas, where you can lounge nude. The rooms are on the smaller side, but we found we spent most of our time poolside (during the day) or enjoying the restaurants & bars (in the evening) anyways, so it wasn’t an issue.

Through the palms at Desire Pearl

In comparison, the atmosphere at Pearl is noticeably more mellow and has a quiet, romantic feel. While you can definitely still meet people at Desire Pearl, the resort is larger and more spread out, which means it’s easier to keep to yourself. While Pearl has a nightclub and jacuzzi lounge, it seemed much less busy than at Maya. The vibe was that of a secluded, couples-only romantic retreat (sans clothes).

I like to break it down like this:

Desire Maya: couple oriented, sexy and romantic. Has a lively party scene and lots of opportunities to socialize. Clothing optional. Couples only.

Desire Pearl: couple oriented, sexy and romantic. Has a more relaxed, serene, retreat-like vibe but still with opportunities to meet people/socialize. Clothing optional. Couples only.

Temptation: Sexy, fun, raucous party vibe with lots of opportunities to socialize. Topless optional. Couples and singles.

Can I suntan nude on the beach?

Yes! The beach area directly in front of the Desire properties is perfect for nude sunbathing. However, if you decide to move further down the beach — for example, to the public areas — you’ll need to put on a bathing suit or clothing of some kind.

A scene from the dock at desire riviera maya

Will I feel self-conscious?

Not going to lie, if you’ve never been to a nude resort, stripping down feels weird at first. However, that feeling quickly goes away when you look around you and see bodies of every shape and size. It almost feels more weird to have clothes on!

Here’s something most people don’t realize about clothing optional resorts: they’re incredibly body positive. You will literally see every kind of body possible.

And when in doubt, a few margaritas help!

Is it okay to wear a bathing suit if I feel more comfortable in one?

Definitely. As I mentioned above, it’s clothing optional. This may surprise you, but I can be a bit shy when it comes to showing off my body! The first time I visited Desire, I started off wearing a bathing suit and then slowly shed the layers as I became more comfortable. While the majority of the guests are (at the very least) topless, the crowd is extremely non-judgemental, so no one will fault you for wanting to ease into the experience by wearing a bathing suit.

Heading out to lunch at Desire Pearl

Are Desire Resorts just for swingers?

Both Maya and Pearl are “swinger friendly” and you’ll meet a lot of people who are in the lifestyle. However, you’ll also meet couples who are there to try something new and like the idea of potentially playing with other couples (or being in an environment where spicy fun is happening in the midst). There’s also folks who go to the resort for the simple reason that they like lounging around in the sun naked. There’s no “one” kind of guest!

What if I just want to relax and not get hit on?

While the guests at Desire tend to be very friendly (there’s something about shedding clothing that just makes conversation flow!), the resorts are governed by a very strict, consent driven “no means no” code of conduct that everyone is asked to sign at check in. Anyone who violates it is removed from the resort.

This is a huge part of why I love going to resorts like Desire and Temptation — it’s very much an “ask before you touch” kind of scene. We made tons of new friends around the resort and never once felt pressured to do anything.

So, if you’re not looking to play with other couples, you can rest assured that you and your significant other will be left alone to enjoy your vacation together. However, if you’re looking to fulfill a fantasy with another couple, you have a very good chance of meeting like-minded people at Desire. Even if you’re only there for a few nights, connections tend to form quickly in an open and uninhibited environment like Desire.

Is there places to relax, tan and read without music blasting?

Definitely! Both Desire Maya and Desire Pearl have quieter areas. While the pool area at Desire Maya tends to be very lively during the day, the beach is very chill and relaxing. You can also relax on your balcony or in other pockets around the resort.

As I mentioned above, Desire Pearl is a larger property and it was much quieter when I visited, so if you’re looking for a very laid back experience you might want to consider Pearl — even for a night or two.

The chill pool scene at Desire Pearl

Can I go to Desire Resorts if I’m single?

Both Desire resorts are for adventurous heterosexual couples only. If you’re single and looking for a sexy vacation, you might want to consider Temptation, Cancun which is a topless optional resort.

Is it just going to be a bunch of twenty year olds?

Nope! This is a more mature crowd, with the average guest age being around 35-45. I met plenty of attractive couples in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. However, you’ll also meet folks in their 60’s, 70’s and beyond! If you’re looking for a slightly younger crowd, Temptation, Cancun might be more what you’re looking for.

Will I see people having sex in public?

Yes. While public sex is only (officially) allowed in the jacuzzi lounge, there’s a good chance you’ll see couples boning in public — like in the SIN room or on their balconies, terraces etc.

(FYI, I spent a very memorable afternoon in the pool stealing glances in between sips of Pina Colada of a very hot couple who were having sex on their nearby patio for all to see).

What’s the food like?

Whether you’re staying at Desire Riviera Maya or Desire Pearl, the food is what you’d expect from an upscale all inclusive resort. Both properties have a combination of buffet, casual dining and sit-down restaurants.

I have great memories of my dinner at Sahlo (the Aphrodisiac restaurant at Desire Maya) and the steak fajitas at Aphrodite (Desire Pearl’s casual dining restaurant — my go-to lunch spot!) And don’t forget the endless poolside nachos and guacamole! I know it seems weird to talk about the food at a clothing optional resort, but it’s really good!

Let Desire take you wherever it takes you!

Whether you are a newbie or experienced nude traveller, Desire resorts gives you the flexibility to make the experience whatever you want it to be. If you want to get frisky and explore your sexuality in a safe environment, you can. However, if all you want to do is lounge around the pool and stuff your face with endless guacamole while wearing minimal clothing, you can do that too.

While I never would have pegged myself for someone who enjoys a clothing optional vacation, the fact that I can go somewhere and be myself without judgement or the risk of unwanted sexual harassment, is a huge selling point for me.

Even Joe the Intern had a good time in the buff!

And if you’re not sure whether you’re ready for a full-on clothing optional vacation, there’s always Temptation — Desire’s sister property that’s perfect for dipping your toes (or other body parts) into the world of nude travel.

If you have any questions, I encourage you to reach out [skinnydipblog AT gmail.com]. I’d be happy to answer them!

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of spending a weekend at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver. This was my first weekend away from home since the start of the pandemic and while the hotel is only located approximately 50 miles from my home base of Victoria, BC, stepping into the airy lobby hotel felt like I was being whisked away to another universe.

Located amidst the glass skyscrapers of downtown Vancouver on the edge of the False Creek waterway, this dreamy hotel has a resort-like setting reminiscent of a luxe Vegas hotel but with a distinctly chill and understated vibe that Vancouver’s known for. If you stay at the JW Marriott Parq you technically don’t need to leave the property to have a super fun and relaxing weekend. On property you’ll find a host of amazing restaurants & bars, a spa, a rooftop aqua lounge that offers stunning views of the city and of course, a 72,000 square-foot world class casino (unfortunately, the casino is currently closed because of the pandemic.)

I also love that the hotel is conveniently located. If you want to leave (which I did), you’re only steps away from the seawall or the hustle & bustle of Gastown, Yaletown and Chinatown. This made it super easy to visit some of my favorite places in Vancouver while staying at the Parq.

As someone who suffers from anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder — a condition that’s definitely been amplified by the pandemic — I feel like I’m constantly playing “germ math” (this fork is clean, but how clean is the table it’s sitting on? Will it kill me? What about this door knob. Will it kill me?) I was nervous about travelling from Victoria, BC (where we have relatively few COVID cases) to Vancouver, BC (where COVID cases are higher). But the JW Marriott Parq ended up being the perfect destination to dip my anxiety ridden toes back into travel.

Before I arrived, the hotel team assured me that they follow stringent guidelines set up by the Marriott Global Cleanliness Council, a group of experts dedicated to ensuring the comfort and safety of guests. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, they’ve reduced touch-points, increased cleaning practices, and created touchless experiences to ensure the utmost safety of their guests.

I was naturally a little skeptical, but the hotel really went out of its way to make a germ-phobic traveller like me feel safe and looked after. Masks were worn in all public areas, hand sanitizer was readily available (I noticed the staff using it before and after they touched your bags and/or cards) and there were wipes set up everywhere so you could wipe surfaces like elevator buttons and doorknobs before you used them.

I stayed in one of the One Bedroom Suites. Not only was my room super luxe (the beds were so incredibly comfy) but the staff also made sure to include a note card outlining all of the high touch areas that had been disinfected before my arrival along with a complimentary package of anti-bacterial wipes (I gave everything a once over even though I probably didn’t need to because, anxiety!)

Knowing that I was safe, I was able to enjoy some of the amenities the hotel has to offer.

I took advantage of the Spa by JW which features 10,000 square feet of space dedicated to healing, restoration and rejuvenation, and treated myself to a relaxing aromatherapy massage followed by some quiet time in the relaxation lounge which overlooks False Creek.

I also enjoyed an early morning soak and took in the views at the Parq’s rooftop aqua lounge.

Last but not least, I ate a few meals at Honey Salt. The eatery offers upscale locally sourced eats in a super cute setting. My favorite: the Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes (pumpkin spice, almond butter, oat crumble, pumpkin seeds). I rarely see gluten free pancakes on brunch menus (even though I make them at home all the time), so these were a real treat.

Did I still feel anxious about the pandemic and germs during my stay? Definitely. But that has more to do with my brain chemistry than the hotel.

From the bounty of wipes and hand sanitizer readily available near every high-touch surface to the conscientious staff that made every effort possible to make me feel as safe and comfortable as possible during my stay, it’s clear that the JW Marriott Parq takes the health of their guests seriously.

Explore Desires: 10 Ways To Celebrate NationalSex Day