By Theofanis Fousekis,
In our every-day life, we hear and learn about the many forms of tourism that exist. Eco-friendly, cultural and agricultural tourism represent some alternative tourism methods. But have you ever thought about a top clothing optional resort?
If the answer is yes, then you are an adventurous spirit, that always searches for something new. If the answer is no, then let’s explore together what a top clothing optional resort is. Let’s begin with an examination of a hotel that fits the above-mentioned description. Hedonism II is a resort in the town of Negril in Jamaica, which presents another approach to relaxation. In a big and spacious hotel in the exotic Caribbean Sea, most clients walk around naked.
The name of the resort gives away its uniqueness. Hedoni (ηδονή) means pleasure in Greek. So hedonism would be the result of a pleasurable act. It is even a school of thought in philosophy, according to which seeking pleasure and avoiding suffering are the basic components of well-being. That is probably what the owner, Harry W. Lange, had in mind, when building the hotel.
If someone is interested in making a reservation at Hedonism II, they can sense from the moment they set foot in the resort that there is something peculiar about that place. The background is dark. There are moving images of half-naked and naked couples in different situations. The “Special Offers” area has now become the “Sexy Specials” area. The emblem of the resort – the imposing figures of two mermaids holding a trident – stands tall at the far edge of the screen.
As read in the description: “Hedonism II breaks the boundaries of other lifestyle-friendly, clothing optional resorts. Here, there’s never too much of a good thing. People travel from far and wide to live out their fantasies and escape their inhibitions. Leave the mundane day-to-day, explore yourself as you explore the sensual and liberating environment of the Hedonism II in Negril, Jamaica”.
The above description certainly sounds intriguing. There are even two options for a client to choose from: they can either stay at the clothing optional part of the resort or they can choose the nude vacation option. It all depends on how liberating someone wants to get. In addition, the hotel offers all-inclusive programs with absolutely everything included so one won’t have to think about money at all, not even tips!
With 280 rooms and an accessible beach site, the hotel attracts tourists from all over the world. The clientele consists mainly of people that are not monogamous which phycologists refer to as “an umbrella term that captures polyamory, swinging and various other forms of ethically ‘open’ relationships”.
Partying is one of the main activities in Hedonsim II. From swinging parties to nude car washes, there is a plethora of events to which someone can participate in. There is even a playroom where nudity is a requirement and guests have to take their clothes off, if they wish to enter. In the playroom, one will find mattresses and couches, an exhibitionist-style glass shower and even a free condom dispenser. “The nude pool and jacuzzi in the premises of the hotel always create a playful atmosphere”, comments Lange.
But how can a hotel like this one, which has a very specific clientele, find a way to survive during the covid-19 crisis and while the global tourism industry has suffered more than 50 billion euros in losses?
In a recent interview, Lange stated that he is trying to adapt the hotel’s guidelines around nudism, swinging and prudism to fit within the new pandemic regulations. The first thing he announced was that the resort’s regular parties would no longer be happening because of big crowds and unrestrained proximity. Some of the in-house shows like the cabaret shows would still be available, on the condition that the performers wear face masks. As far as the infamous playroom is concerned, a small unmonitored poolside open space area would take its place.
Many people have suggested that a hotel like this one cannot guarantee the safety of its clients. Many Hedonism II repeaters have been rethinking their plans and many more demand reassurance before engaging or interacting with other guests. That is definitely something that the resort is able to offer: reassurance. Hedonism II is following every single protocol that the government has issued and has passed all the required inspections in order to be able to operate. Seating areas are closely monitored to maintain safety distances, all rooms have a capacity limit and all parties have been cancelled.
With the moto “Be Wicked for a Week”, Hedonism II opened to the public on the 1st of July. Due to the opening of the borders, Jamaica has received approximately 60.000 tourists up to date. Lange is committed to deliver the full hedo experience to his guests by maintaining methods to enhance their spiritual liberty whilst at the same time taking into consideration all necessary measures.
Amidst the current crisis and all the uncertainty, the world is currently exposed to, the tourism industry has a tough battle to fight in order to survive. Yet, in a free-virus era, would you… swing?
