Clothing Optional Travel Options
By Lori Lovely
Knowing where to find clothing/optional beaches, how to locate a clothing/optional hotel or resort, or how to find a travel agent familiar with clothing/optional travel – or even whether a travel agent can be beneficial for the kind of trip you want to take – are dilemmas common to vacationers without a lot of experience with the nudist lifestyle.
Determining whether a public beach allows topless or nude sunbathing can be difficult, and often the only clue is other beachgoers’ attire – or lack thereof. Holly Kamen, of Holly’s Holidays, points out that there are very few places in the U.S. where nudity is legal on the beach. But, while many places don’t officially permit nudity, several beaches and resorts tolerate it in the name of tourism. “California doesn’t allow it,” she says, “but the police don’t haul you away for being topless, either.”
Kamen, a travel agent since 1977 and an experienced traveler who has visited 148 countries, sidesteps public beaches in favor of private resorts. “If you go to public nude beaches, you’ll see a whole slew of people hanging out to see what everyone looks like. I don’t want to be a target.”
As in planning any vacation, determining the kind of trip you want and the kind of traveler you are is essential ingredient to a successful and satisfying vacation.
Swingers and party animals
Even among private resorts, the differences can be staggering. Kamen has stayed at Jamaica’s Hedonism II 17 times. Dubbed the world’s most notorious resort, the uninhibited hotel includes a swim-up bar among its tally of six, and plenty of erotic entertainment. “I love it. It’s totally crazy with games, discos – all kinds of fun. It’s the most fun vacation I’ve ever had,” Kamen effuses. She says the balance of couples has equaled the number of singles. However, “they’re Lifestyle resorts,” she says, “for swingers.” She’s quick to add that swinging, like clothing, is strictly optional.
Relaxed and pampered
For the more sophisticated traveler, a pampering and private clothing/optional destination is more suitable. Often, the allure of these all-adult resorts includes their exclusivity, privacy, luxury and peacefulness. Riviera Maya’s Hidden Beach is a luxurious all-inclusive nudist club that offers ultimate privacy, swim-up suites and beach activities.
Families
Other resorts, such as Cabañas Copal in the Riviera Maya, are family-oriented clothing/optional retreats. This cozy hideaway along Mexico’s coast bills itself as a holistic spa, with yoga classes, hot stone massage treatments and a sweat lodge.
The all-inclusive question
Arguments in favor of all-inclusive resorts can be strengthened when clothing/optional travel is in mix, although many travelers prefer small, intimate hotels with quaint local flavor. Often, they are less expensive than an all-inclusive, and offer more off-site choices for meals and activities since those decisions are up to the traveler.
Still, Kamen remains a fan of the all-inclusive. “They’re the best bargain you’re going to get,” she insists. “All your meals, alcohol, transportation to and from the airport, and sometimes even some activities are included in one price. You can get a week’s vacation for about $1,000. You can’t beat that.” She also lists the safety factor as a consideration. “You don’t have to leave the protected grounds to have a nice meal, some entertainment.”
Conversely, she remains skeptical of the bargain-hunter and critical of the small hotel. “Firefly is a small clothing/optional hotel in Jamaica that charges about $80 a night,” Kamen begins. “It’s like a Jamaican Motel 6. You save on the hotel, but by the time you’re done with transportation and meals, you’re out a lot more money.” The trouble, she says, is that “you’re stranded in the middle of nowhere,” cabs get expensive and renting a car in Jamaica is “crazy.”
In addition, she advises, booking a small, out of the way hotel usually requires advance reservations and they frequently book out quickly, especially during holidays or other busy travel times. “They’re for people who are really organized and plan ahead.”
Where?
Kamen’s customers usually know what they want in a vacation and where they want to go, she says. But if you don’t already have a travel agent, there are many resources for finding one with experience in nude travel. Organizations, web sites and publications dedicated to nude travel offer referrals, links and ads. Kamen is a member of the American Association for Nude Recreation (www.AANR.com; 800.879.6833). Their web site, bulletins and newsletters provide an excellent reference guide, and their membership provides the best advertising of all: word of mouth. “When you belong to a club, you see the same people every week. You talk about resorts, travel agents – everything.”
The Internet has instigated the “biggest boom” in the travel industry, says Kamen. “You can find anything online. The Internet has great low prices, great savings.” She qualifies that statement by adding that a professional travel agent can help when problems arise. And, she adds, travel agents are privy to discounted travel packages, last-minute bargains and other offers that may not be available online. “I can get you a lower rate on cruises, tours and packages,” she confirms.
Her best advice about finding a clothing/optional beach or resort when booking a trip with a travel agent: ask.
To book your next trip or for questions regarding nudist resorts, contact Holly at hollysholidays@msn.com.
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