The Sexual Saunas of Paris
As part of our continuing effort to show the sticky underside of postcard Paris, Gridskipper presents the sauna mixte. Just like the city's clubs échangistes, these saunas are for having sex with strangers. So what's the difference between a club and a sauna? With the sauna, you'll be given a locker, a pair of flip flops, and green tea instead of a gimlet. You'll also be expected to have sex. Saunas mixtes, in comparison with the clubs, are less tolerant of voyeurs, and there's a lot more sausage on offer. This makes them ideal for fans of pluralité masculine -- they're not for the curious onlooker. Saunas are also favored as an in-and-out option for the city's clandestine couples; low prices and convenient hours make them the fast food of infidelity.
Sexodrome
23, Boulevard de Clichy
75009 9ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
With a name like Sexodrome, one half expects that the naked people will be wearing elbow pads and roller skates. Unfortunately, this is just your run-of-the-mill sex mall … with 2500 square meters of filth. The sauna chez Sexodrome is only one of 10 activities introduced by Artistic Director Philippe Cochinard in this video. It's worth a view, if for no other reason than to master the French pronunciation of "face-sitting." [link]
Sauna-Club Provence
66, Rue de Provence
75009 9ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
As at Alina, the Sauna-Club Provence provides a petit déjeuner coquin on Monday mornings. They also offer the option of booking the whole club for an evening -- … something to consider for that upcoming anniversary or company party. Karaoke is not yet on the menu, but we're thinking it's only a matter of time. [link]
l'Ambigue
13, Rue Dussoubs
75002 2ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
That's not eucalyptus you're smelling at the newly refurbished l'Ambigue. It is, according to the website, the "subtle perfume of eroticism floating permanently the air." … On certain theme nights, it may also be the smell of a sweet buffet spread. [link]
l'Atlantide
13, Rue Parrot
75012 12ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
L'Atlantide is one of the more stylish saunas of Paris, and even earned a seal of approval from the Zurban guide. It's known among coquins for its sexual mixité -- … you'll find gay, bisexual, and straight couples here. Even so, as with most saunas, single women get the best rates. [link]
L'Amphibi
Rue Hallé
75014 14ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
As the name suggests, l'Amphibi has more of a bisexual vibe, with special prices for men under 27. The usual mint tea and relaxation room are here, but so is a glory hole … and three video salons. The cheapest rates are for ladies and transsexuals, who enter for free or €5, depending on the day. [link]
Alina Sauna
11, Rue Pixérécourt
75020 20ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
Alina hosts a sort of brunch every Monday before 2:00pm. Single ladies can have their cake and eat it, too, for a mere €10, making this one of the cheapest meal deals … in the neighborhood. Couples are free before 11 pm on Wednesday for the tastefully named Private Gang Bang. [link]
