NAKED

Learning to be comfortable in my own skin

Enjoyed my first full day at Naked Hotel Zipolite. It took a few minutes to get re-accustomed to being publicly nude. It’s a clothing optional resort, and beach, but WTH, I’m going all out optional! Initially, it did feel odd to step out of my room heading to breakfast without a stitch of clothing. I do, however, miss pockets.

I’ve been here before, a year ago, my first gay vacation. The experience was profoundly freeing, liberating. It taught me to be unapologetic, unafraid, uninhibited. Coming back this time was easier. I knew what to expect, the lay of the land.

Coming out at 60, I was very hung up about how I looked – naked. For 30 years, no one cared about what I looked like, I didn’t need to impress. I let myself go as we all do as we get older.

But being naked, and sex, is a huge part of gay life. So virtually overnight, I was naked in front of complete strangers, a lot of them, within minutes of meeting. From someone who 2 years prior, wouldn’t take my shirt off in public, it was not easy.

I’ve been naked more in the last 2 years, then in the previous 60 years combined! It’s a big part of my awakening, of my self-discovery. I’m consistently in the company of younger men who I perceive to be “out of my league. But I have learned I’ve nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of. And, actually, I’m quite popular. I’m a “daddy”

Experiences like this help me to grow, to continue to expand my capabilities as a person, as a gay man, and is so very good for my soul!

I’m letting the world know I’m here, and proud. Stripped down to my skin; no care about what I’m wearing, no need to impress with coverings and adornments. Take me as I am; imperfect as I may be, here in Zipolite and frankly in all aspects of my life.

I encourage everyone to stretch your limits. It doesn’t require nudity, but from experience, it sure feels good!