I run a nudist resort… here is the biggest mistake people make

PHOTO: FILE

The owner of a naturist resort in Fuerteventura has revealed the biggest misconception people have when they sign up.

Karie Jane, from Derbyshire, founded the BHH Naturist Resort in the Canary Islands, Spain, after embracing the naturist lifestyle 20 years ago.

Now 57, she runs retreats where she hosts groups of strangers who book separately, as well as families and couples, at her clothing-optional property.

Karie highlighted a common misunderstanding about naturism: people often equate it with sexual activity. On her resort’s website, she clarifies, “Being nude with others is not embarrassing. Nudism is not porn.”

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She elaborates that nudism is about the freedom from wearing clothes and the feeling of liberation, not sexual excitement. “It’s easy to forget that everyone is naked. Just because they are doesn’t create a sexually charged atmosphere. If you’re seeking a thrill, you’d be better off staying home,” she writes. “Any sexual activity in public is offensive and illegal. Nobody wants to see that. Holding hands, a hug, or simple kissing is fine. For more intimate expressions of affection, wait until you’re in a private setting.”

Karie also addresses what to do if someone experiences an erection. “It can happen, especially for newcomers. The best response is to turn over on your towel or stay in the water until it passes,” she advises. If someone is deliberately drawing attention to an erection, Karie recommends reporting them to a lifeguard or authorities, who will likely expel the offender.

Karie Jane (left) set up BHH Naturist Resort in the Canary Islands, Spain, after first trying the lifestyle 20 years ago

Karie explained that being nude with others is not ’embarrassing’ and ‘nudism is not porn’

Respect for others is paramount at her resort. “It is very rude to stare. When conversing, maintain proper eye contact,” her website advises.

Karie explains that naturism helps people become less concerned about their bodies. “When you’ve seen dozens of naked people in a day, you start to feel less self-conscious about your own body.”

Karie’s naturist resort is in Fuerteventura (above). She says: ‘If you see someone with an obvious erection and is purposely drawing attention, let a lifeguard or authorities know about this’

Karie and some of her guests enjoy the sunshine on a nude beach

This perspective is shared by others in the naturist community. For instance, a 67-year-old man who recently went on a nude cruise with his wife emphasized that these cruises are not for swingers but for those who appreciate the naturist lifestyle. He noted that passengers take advantage of being nude while onboard, with clothes typically being removed after the ship leaves port and put back on before arriving at the next destination.