Gay bathing

What is a bathhouse?

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Bathhouses – also known as baths, saunas, or same-sex attracted saunas – are spaces where gender non-conforming men* meet to socialise, relax and have sex. They are legal, licensed sex venues, as opposed to regular saunas or steam rooms where people cruise.

The number of gay bathhouses in North America peaked in the 1970s. Most of them closed in the 1980s, as local governments made widespread health rules to curb the HIV/AIDS epidemic. These rules were often rooted in homophobia. 

Today, there are still bathhouses in most major cities across the world. You can find them through Google or on cruising sites appreciate Squirt and Sniffies.

‍* Historically, bathhouses only admitted cisgender men. They are generally becoming more inclusive. Many have more relaxed door policies or dedicated times and events that are safer spaces for trans and non-binary people. If this applies to you, it’s top to check online or ring ahead before visiting a venue for the first time. 

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When you arrive

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When you come at a bathhouse, you’ll get to a front desk with an attendant. This is where you’ll pay for your entry along with any extras like private rooms (if the venue

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