Canadians open to going nude on vacation: Survey

QMI Agency

Published Jun 17, 2014 • Last updated Jun 17, 2014 • 1 minute read

Relax, Enjoy: Many nudists say a couple nights at a clothes-free resort is as restful as a traditional week-long vacation. The point is to become comfortable with your body no matter what shape you’re in and to view it — tummy rolls and all — with acceptance. (Fotolia)
The Nude Rule: While clothing optional rules may differ from resort to resort, there is a mandatory nude rule at pools and Jacuzzis in order to put everyone on the same level. (Fotolia)
Observe the Rules of the House: If a facility designates that clothing must be worn in certain areas or at certain times, please comply. (Fotolia)
No Judgments: Refrain from any crude or lewd remarks about anyone’s appearance. (Fotolia)
Body Piercings: Rules on body piercings may differ at resorts but in general, small and inconspicuous piercings are acceptable. Some resorts may prohibit piercings below the waist. Check in advance. (Fotolia)
No PDA: Most nudist resorts are family-friendly and open displays of a sexual nature are prohibited. Sexually suggestive language, dancing or displays of affection are not appropriate at most nudist resorts. (Fotolia)
Underwear Is Not OK: At some resorts, clothes are acceptable at some onsite restaurants, dances and themed parties. However, lingerie is not considered appropriate attire under any of these circumstances, nor is walking around in underwear. (Fotolia)
Sorry, No Selfies or Any Other Photography: As a matter of respect for everyone’s privacy, cameras and phones with photo capabilities are generally prohibited at nudist resorts. (Fotolia)
No Staring: Looking is natural. Staring is rude. (Fotolia)
Tush Towels A Must: Hygiene requires guests to always sit on their own towels. Guests are encouraged to pack at least two. (Fotolia)

Canadians are more open to letting it all hang out than they were 15 years ago, a new poll from the Federation of Canadian Naturists (FCN) says.

The FCN surveyed 1,015 Canadians aged 18 and over about their experience and attitude toward nudity and naturism, a followup to a survey the group conducted in 1999.

The new survey found just over two in three Canadians (69%) have engaged in naturist behaviours — such as sleeping in the nude, skinny-dipping and attending nude beaches and resorts — and the same ratio is open to doing so in the future.

"Perhaps we've all had enough of the over-sexualization and objectification of our bodies and we are ready to retake control," said Stephane Deschenes, a spokeswoman for Bare Oaks Family Naturist Park north of Toronto. "But I also think that running around naked and skinny-dipping is fun!"

The survey found Albertans have the greatest openness to trying nude experiences.

"It was a bit of a surprise to me," Deschenes said. "We think of Albertans as conservative and traditional. But that is either a misconception or changing."

FCN says the poll has a margin of error of 2.3 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.