Gay Cruising
Gay Cruising in Big Cities
In the age of Grindr and other gay dating apps, does gay cruising in big cities still happen at all? The question seems entirely justified. Gay cruising as a way of anonymously getting in touch with like-minded men is a phenomenon that dates back to a time when homosexuality found hardly any social acceptance or was punishable by law.[caption id="attachment_219" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
Gay cruising in big cities[/caption]
In those days, it was simply impossible for gay men to make their sexual preferences public. Reprisals or serious consequences were often the order of the day. Many gay and bisexual men could therefore only live out their sexuality in secret and anonymously at gay cruising spots.
Have Gay Dating Apps Made Gay Cruising Obsolete?
With the spread of gay dating apps on smartphones, gay cruising spots in big cities have indeed lost popularity in recent years. Many young gay men find it cumbersome to look around for others outdoors at one of the well-known gay cruising spots for a quick hookup. Too time-consuming, chances of success doubtful, too unsafe? Messaging another guy with a hot profile picture on a gay dating app sounds much more convenient to many. Just letting off a little steam has to be quick for many. Still, they exist, the advocates of gay cruising.Gay Cruising Is an Intense Experience for All Participants
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Gay Cruising[/caption]For gay men who still enjoy gay cruising, it's often the thrill above all that counts. Since cruising takes place in public places like restrooms and parks, there's always the risk of getting caught in the act. On top of that, as a participant you have to respond to very subtle signals from the other person in order to make contact. Few words are usually exchanged during cruising. Body language matters all the more. After all, the point is to show another man your interest unmistakably. This contributes to some men experiencing cruising as an especially exciting and intense sexual adventure.
Since the contact is more or less anonymous, it's also clear to both sides from the start that no further commitments are being made. Among the men there are therefore often married bisexual men, too. For them it's about living out their sexual fantasies without signing up for a gay dating app.