Naturism as a lifestyle

Enjoy the freedom of being naked? Outside? With other people? Newsflash, nuding isn't just for hippies looking for kicks. Consider a naked vacation with others (in a non-sexual way) to experience a camaraderie that comes naturally when you remove the friction of clothing.

Remove your clothing and body image hang-ups slip way. It's the great equalizer between young and old, skinny and fat. The naturist lifestyle, often referred to as clothing optional, nudist, textile-free, uninhibited, liberating ... au naturel, celebrates being naked and sharing the beauty of the natural human form in all our wondrous shapes and sizes.

Yes, nudism is associated with being naughty, arousing, sexually charged, kinky, a fringe faction. But the ability to take a walk, swim, chat, relax in the hot tub with others or play volleyball naked has amazing body-liberating qualities.

Nude resorts stripped bare

If you've never been to a nude resort before, your first visit can be more than a little intimidating. The questions are endless and that's cool. If you're considering an alternative lifestyle resort for the first time, you'll need the following:

• An open mind is the most important thing to pack.
• Expect to make friends fast. Stripping away clothes strips away barriers and people are actually friendlier at clothing optional and nudist resorts, from our experience.
• Remember the towel. You'll need one if you want to sit anywhere.
• Most common FAQ's for first time visitors

Naturism vs nudism vs clothing-optional

Naturism and nudism are interchangeable terms to describe a lifestyle dedicated to public social nudity in a non-sexual interaction (like a nudist resort, naturist club or event). The more modest term for a naturist experience is "clothing-optional" (clothing-optional resort, clothing-optional beach).

On the spectrum of nudity, clothing-optional locations offer more modesty - and choice. Guests can choose how dressed they'd like to be throughout the resort, from full-on nudity everywhere to topless or even fully clothed.

Naturist resorts are closer to pure nudism where all activities and time spent there are expected to be fully naked (according to weather conditions). Clothing is not permitted so that all guests are equal all the time. Clothing-optional resorts and beaches offer the bridge to getting comfortable with public social nudity. They're a little easier to find and a great first time experience into the world of nudism.

Take a walk on the wild side

We challenge you to step past your hang-ups, culture-obsessed body image, and social gymnophobia (fear of nudity). Make a long weekend out of it with your partner and explore the new feelings. Remove another bucket list item. Discover a naturist resort (almost guaranteed you'll find one in pretty much every state and province), the relaxation and friendship it offers.

While your naughty thoughts may hang around for a bit (and why not), you'll quickly come to appreciate the freedom, the openness and the friendliness of others naked around you.

Check out some of the Naturist Resorts we've visited over our travels and tell us about your experiences. We're constantly seeking new naturist resorts, nude beaches and opportunities for partners to get a little closer with a natural, healthy, exposing experience.

If you have any tips on a great place we need to check out, we need to know. Follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook and lets start talking!