As per usual, Tony Valenzuela has written a lovely piece on his experiences in gay darkrooms. I can't say I've actually ever entered a darkroom -- they've always scared me a bit. And I was weened on the Internet for finding my jollies starting at a very young age. So sadly, public sex culture has never been my forte. But the article raises some interesting "Dos" and "Do-nots" of darkrooms.

My favorite bit has got to be this quote from the manager of Amsterdam's Cuckoo's Nest:

"Too many people were using the darkroom to chat," Ted told me, explaining the mistake that Cuckoo's Nest once made by turning its very large darkroom into the smoking area of the bar. There were complaints, naturally. Talking is noise, moaning is atmosphere. In darkrooms men communicate through touch, actions - walking away, gently removing an unwanted hand from your ass - and, if absolutely necessary, the faintest whisper with lips pressed to ear. This code of silence places creative constraints on sex negotiations. If condoms are important to you, bring them and apply them. Don't expect verbal communication (such as HIV disclosure) in an environment where talking is a killjoy. Boyberry and Cuckoo's Nest provide condoms for free. If you plan on getting fucked in the darkroom, bring lube and please douche. Hygiene is essential darkroom etiquette. Body smells shouldn't be pungent or fragrant. Save it for theme night or date night.

Click here to read the rest!!!
Click here to read the rest!!!
Click here to read the rest!!!