A bathing place can also serve as a gay cruising area
That is, as a place where the LGBTQ+ community meets to get to know each other and flirt. This can be especially the case in the dark or in secluded places.
What counts as a bathing place?
This refers to places where you can bathe or swim. They can be of natural origin, such as rivers, lakes or seas, or man-made, such as swimming pools or outdoor pools.
There are different types of bathing places:
- Natural bathing sites: These are bathing places in nature, such as rivers, lakes or seas. They usually do not offer special facilities and are suitable for bathing and swimming.
- Outdoor swimming pools: These are man-made bathing sites, usually operated by the municipality. They offer facilities such as swimming pools, diving boards, showers and changing rooms.
- Swimming pools: These are also man-made bathing sites, usually operated by the municipality. They often offer saunas, massage areas and fitness rooms in addition to the usual facilities such as pools and showers.
- Bathing lakes: these are natural bathing sites usually operated by the municipality. They offer facilities such as swimming pools, diving boards, showers and changing rooms.
Encounters in the dark wet
There are various reasons why bathing in the dark or using a bathing spot in the dark can be particularly exciting, appealing and also erotic for some people. First and foremost, it's the play with boundaries and the risk of getting caught. Darkness can stimulate the senses as it emphasizes the lack of visual stimuli. You're then more likely to focus on other senses, like touch and hearing.
This can make the experience more intense and sensual and heighten awareness. With sex, darkness can also help you feel freer and more confident, and more likely to try things you might not dare in daylight. Bathing in the dark can also have the advantage for some people that you are more likely to be undisturbed. If the bathing spot is not well lit or you are in a secluded spot, you are less likely to be observed by other people. On the other hand, if you like to be watched, choose an early time of day to visit the bathing spots.
