With warmer weather and longer evenings, summer is an exciting season for sex and relationships.
According to a recent survey, 82 per cent of men and 78 per cent of women find holidays an aphrodisiac and desire sex more frequently when they’re taking a break from normal life. And 90 per cent of people admit to enjoying more adventurous sex while they’re abroad.
“Sex on holiday with your partner can be mind-blowing as it gives you both the perfect opportunity to enjoy each other without the everyday worries that can prove so tiring back home,” says therapist and relationships expert Marisa Peer.
“As well as leaving the stress of work behind, there are fewer chores to contend with, giving you more time to relax and enjoy yourselves,” she says. “But that doesn’t mean that great sex doesn’t take some work.”
Four experts reveal how to have your best holiday sex yet.
Set intentions
“Set intentions for what you would like to explore together,” explains sexologist Madalaine Munro. “For example, would you like to bring more romance into your sex life? More kink? Do you want to try something in particular? Share your desires, needs and any fears ahead of time so that your hopes and expectations can be met.”
Try out different roles
“Holiday sex can be so delicious because you are away from your daily routine, so it may feel safer to explore other aspects to your sexuality and to see yourself and your partner outside your usual roles and dynamics,” explains Munro. “Try on different roles in the bedroom. For example, if you want to be more playful, assertive, submissive – now is a great time to step into a different pair of shoes.”
Switch time zone
“For many of us, sex takes place in the evening before bed, and often this is due to convenience and context – it’s the time of day that brings us together at the same time, in the place,” says Kate Moyle, sex and relationships expert at LELO. “On holiday, take the opportunity to switch time zones and have sex at a different time of day, either in the morning, at midday, or before dinner. This can also help take pressure or expectation off the end of the night and can give you a feel-good neurochemical boost.”
Munro adds: “Take this one step further and interrupt more of your sexual habits. If you always have the same type of foreplay, how can you mix it up? If you gravitate towards the same positions, how can you discover pleasure in different ways? This can be especially important for those in long-term relationships.”
Be prepared
Preparation is key to good holiday sex, so take care to check the laws of the country you’re visiting, advises Munro.
She adds: “You may be in a new environment – are there any things you need? Perhaps you have a certain lube, or form of sexual protection that you may not be able to buy abroad. Perhaps you would like to try new toys, if so, remember to pack them. It might not sound glamorous, but check the laws of your holiday destination – in some countries sex toys or public displays of affection are illegal.”
Cecile Gasnault, director at femtech brand Smile Makers, adds: “As your holiday approaches, start preparing together. You could create a shared playlist of songs that you find sexy or write erotic stories. For yourself, pack things that make you feel sensual and comfortable so that you know you will have a good time.”
