Imagine: azure sea, soft sand, the sun gently caressing your skin... and no clothes! Yes, we're talking about the world of nudists – people who believe that shorts, swimsuits, and bikinis are unnecessary. What is this subculture, where did it come from, and why do so many people worldwide prefer to sunbathe (and more) without clothes? Get ready, it's going to be interesting!
A Bit of History
You might be surprised, but nudism is not a new trend. Ancient Greeks actively engaged in sports in their birthday suits. Their Olympic Games were actually held exclusively in the nude! Ancient Romans weren't far behind – their thermal baths were real centers of naked life.
In the Middle Ages, things became more complicated – the church introduced the fashion of shame, and running around naked was only possible in dark dungeons (and not always then). However, by the 19th century, the idea of naturism was revived in Europe, especially in Germany, where the first nudist clubs began to appear. In the 1920s, the movement spread worldwide, and after World War II, when people began striving for freedom and naturalness, nudism became a full-fledged culture.
One of the curious historical episodes was the naked swimming of British Prince Edward VIII (the future king who abdicated the throne) on the island of Rab in Croatia in 1936. He and his lover Wallis Simpson received official permission from the island authorities to swim naked, making Rab the first official nudist location in the country. This episode fueled interest in naturism among European elite and made Croatia one of the pioneers of nudist recreation.
Croatia – A Paradise for Nudists
Croatia is considered one of the best countries for naturism in the world. Tourists seeking freedom from clothes began coming here as early as the 1950s. In the 1960s, official nudist resorts started appearing along the Adriatic coast, and by the 1980s, the country gained worldwide recognition as one of the main destinations for nudist recreation. Today, Croatia has more than 30 official FKK beaches (from German Freikörperkultur – free body culture), as well as dozens of secluded coves where you can enjoy the sun and sea without unnecessary barriers.
Best Nudist Beaches in Croatia
Island of Rab – where it all began! Nudist zones still exist here, including the famous Kandarola beach where Prince Edward VIII swam in 1936.
Valalta (Rovinj) – one of Europe's best nudist resorts, offering excellent conditions, including camping and comfortable apartments.
Koversada (Vrsar) – one of the world's oldest nudist resorts, founded in 1961, with a huge territory and beautiful beaches.
Punta Križa (Cres Island) – a secluded spot among pine forests, perfect for complete communion with nature.
Jerolim (Hvar Island) – a famous nudist beach with crystal clear water, known for its picturesque landscapes.
FKK Sovinje (Pašman Island) – one of the few nudist beaches in Dalmatia, surrounded by pines and olive groves.
Croatia even has specialized camps and resorts for naturists, where you can not only swim but also live in comfortable conditions, enjoying freedom and nature without boundaries.
Why Do People Choose Nudism?
Many are surprised, but nudists aren't exhibitionists, but rather quite normal people (well, almost). The reasons vary for everyone:
Freedom – no wet swimsuits, chafing trunks, or tight bras.
Health – skin breathes, vitamin D is produced, and sunbathing strengthens the immune system.
Naturalness – nudists believe that the body shouldn't be a source of shame.
Equality – clothing creates social differences, but without it, everyone is equally vulnerable (and equally beautiful!).
Myths About Nudists
When nudists are mentioned, lots of amusing (and not so amusing) myths appear. Let's sort them out:
Myth 1: Nudists have sex on the beach. No, no, and no again! Naturism is about freedom and naturalness, not about orgies on the sand. Moreover, if you try to behave inappropriately, you'll be politely (or not so politely) asked to leave.
Myth 2: Nudists are only old people. Indeed, at some beaches, the average age of visitors might be slightly... mature. But this doesn't mean young people aren't interested in naturism. Young people are increasingly trying this lifestyle.
Myth 3: If I come to a nudist beach, people will stare at me. Actually, rule number one at such beaches is not to stare. Everyone is focused on themselves and nature, not studying other people's bodies.
How to Behave at a Nudist Beach? The Naked Truth: Everything You Wanted to Know About Nudists But Were Afraid to Ask
If you decide to try it – here are some simple rules:
Bring a towel. It's an unwritten law – sitting with your bare bottom on public loungers is not acceptable.
Don't take photos. Selfies in such a place are a bad idea. People came to relax, not to pose for your Instagram.
Don't stare. Eyes up, friends!
Relax. The first 10 minutes might be awkward, but then you'll understand that this is just another way to enjoy nature.
The Philosophy of Nudism: Freedom and Harmony
Nudism is not just about the absence of clothes, but a whole life philosophy. It's about freedom, self-acceptance, and enjoying nature without unnecessary barriers. And who knows, maybe someday you'll dare to leave your swimsuit at home? After all, as they say, less clothing – fewer problems!
So if you're drawn to the idea of feeling the wind on your skin, the sun on every inch of your body, and freedom from constraints – nudism might become a new discovery for you. Just remember the sunscreen!
P.S. And yes, don't forget to tell your mom you're going to Croatia... just maybe don't specify all the details! 😉 The Naked Truth: Everything You Wanted to Know About Nudists But Were Afraid to Ask
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