Looking to move your sex life out of the bedroom? Heed these words of advice from those in the know.
Ask to see your friends’ sexual bucket lists and chances are that most of them will include some variation on “sex outside of the bedroom” or “sex in an interesting place.” It’s not hard to understand why so many people like the idea of mixing up their sex spots: Humans value sexual variety and novelty, and a change of scenery is a solid, simple way to achieve that with any partner. Plus, pop culture sells sex outside of the bedroom as a sign of spontaneity and passion. It’s an easy visual cue for uncontrollable desire and youthful adventure. And it is easy as media consumers to internalize the idea that, if we do what we see on the screen, we can feel as exciting as those scenes look.
But figuring out exactly where to have sex outside of the bedroom is not a simple task.
Sure, there are plenty of lists out there that offer ideas, from fucking in the shower to sex on a beach to humping on horseback or a motorcycle. And some of these recommendations are solid. Screwing on a washing machine might bring fun vibrations into the mix. Banging in, say, a friend’s living room can take you out of any stress and anxiety that might cling to the context of your own home, allowing you to sink into the moment. A quickie in a public place can give you a nice boost of adrenaline, because you risk getting caught—which, we feel obligated to point out, could land you in legal trouble.
“Water sex is not worth it…and beach sex. Think about fucking a churro. It is not good.”
Lindsey Leigh
Many other recommended unusual sex spots, however, are just plain dumb. Airplane sex—the much ballyhooed “mile high club”—might seem like a thrill, but in reality it’s likely to be cramped and disgusting. Car sex seems passionate and spontaneous, but it is hardly comfortable, particularly with modern, fuel-efficient models. Making love or something like it on a beach seems romantic, but for the love of all that is holy—the sand, the sand. Yet so many media outlets keep pushing these for no good reason, save that they are floating around in the sexual fantasy ether.
With so many options and ill-advised suggestions available, where can the would-be sexual adventurer turn for solid advice on new places to get it on?
