Posted by Jeff S on March 02, 2005 at 16:06:17:
In Reply to: Re: New york, no outlet for the nudist posted by newyork,newyork on March 01, 2005 at 00:08:54:
As someone who tried with very limited success to organize nude sauna outings in NYC, I can tell you renting out a spa is a very difficult proposition. Last i checked, over a year ago now, 10th Street and Spa 88 only rented after normal hours - i.e., after 10 or 11 p.m. They aren't going to stiff their normal clientele by closing early for a rental. People who work and have busy lives aren't terribly interested in starting a sauna outing that late. Second, it's not cheap. Third, in my experience, few people are willing to commit unless they have some "proof" its going to be worth it. These barriers make it well nigh impossible.
I had a little success exercising a nude co-ed yoga/exercise group. Spaces are available for 2 or 3 hour rentals in midtown for a small group of 6 - 20 people at modest $ ($20 - $30 if a group size of five or more) . It still has the commitment problem. Everyone prefers a just drop in approach like the beach, with no worries of having to interact/get along with unknown others and no promises of showing up. Unfortunately, space costs $ in NYC so someone has to commit and take the chance. As with all social nudity "programs", women are extremely reluctant to participate unless they are with their H or BF.
I also contacted swimming facilities for prospects of a nude swim. Same problem as the spas. After hours, late, costly.
The only thing i've found is the tri-state sun club outings in NJ, which have monthly nude swims at an indoor pool in Paramus or some such place in the winter. Never been, so i don't know how satisfying that experience is.
for NYC, the trust just isn't there. barring some major cultural shift, it just ain't happening.