Which one’s the real bounty? Photo by erutan

Something happens at youth hostels that can make reality flip. I have seen the most pure, saintly ladies go Animal Planet over the course of a three glasses of cheap Chianti. I have heard men tell tale of holding onto their virginity until they are married, only hours later to be seen furiously flustered at a condom vending machine with a dire, spastic look in their eyes.

This is not say that the reality flip happens to everyone, nor that it happens all of the time. Which made me curious.

What percentage of people are pulling off into dark hostel corners or pretending to “just crash in my new friend’s bunk tonight”?

For the purposes of this poll, ‘hooking up’ is defined as: 1) Any sexual activity that goes beyond kissing (you know). 2) Takes place on the grounds of a hostel, tree houses included (I suggest for no particular reason at all). 3) Occurs with somebody that could not, at that time, be considered your partner.

We welcome any stories in the replies, and also understand that you’ll be creating a fictitious name for any comments. It’s a great day to create a pen name.

Community Connection

Have you read our picks for the craziest party hostels in the world or its sequel? Did you know that you could also move the party to the coolest campers around?

What bores some stiff gets others that way.

For most of us, these are about as exciting as watching dust accumulate. For those with very specific tastes, there’s nothing more arousing than a woman blowing her nose or an overinflated balloon.

While you may scoff, don’t write the fetishist off. Just think of how generous they may be when indulging your freakiness after searching for years for someone to enthusiastically stomp toys for them or cheer them on while they writhe in lycra.

And while it might not make sense to you, imagine the ease of a life that requires nothing more to achieve satisfaction than a warm exhaust pipe or a pile of down parkas. No messy breakups. No awkward first dates.

The people who put videos of their children with balloons on the internet ought to be cognizant of the fact that there are people out there (AKA ‘looners’) for whom the act of blowing up balloons is erotic. Blowing, popping – the suspense – it’s undeniable.

This guy was plausibly caught unaware, posting himself blowing up a balloon until it popped. Surprised at the number of views he got, it seems there is a certain percentage of erotic balloon enthusiasts who prefer their blowers wistfully unaware of their erotic powers.

If the human quotient is too cumbersome, sometimes it’s all about the balloon.

Buster is especially animated and entertaining. Just look at that twinkle in his eyes.

Don’t believe me? Go ahead and check out the comments in YouTube if your skeptical.

A quick search for zentai or unitard on eBay will reveal a world you never imagined. It’s not about getting undressed, but about being completely covered and perhaps further immersed in water or mud.

Many of us experience momentary disgust with ourselves in those moments after bring ourselves to climax, but what about this guy? He’s got a good hour of cleanup ahead of himself once the afterglow fades.

It’s easy to understand how tickling can be eroticized. If the axiom that fetishes come from mildly traumatizing experiences in early childhood is true, it’s a wonder more of us aren’t tickle freaks.

While for most, the idea of being trampled may be abhorrent, there is some human contact there, and the trope of dominance and submission we can all comprehend, even if it leaves us cold.

Less relatable is the fetish for seeing objects crushed. I’m curious if, for those whose heart rates rise watching these, there is some projection happening in which the object is the viewer’s surrogate.

Is this fixation what happens when you stomp and destroy little Timmy’s favorite toy car?

One man’s lunch is another man’s orgasm.

This is all about isolation. Ironically, it is incredibly dangerous if done unsupervised. The mummy can easily suffocate or asphyxiate.

If this is your thing and you’re out there feeling alone and blue, make sure you sign up for this forum to discuss it with other like-minded individuals.

A whole BBC five documentary was made about men who have sex with cars. One man has ironically named his car Vanilla. Paradise by that dashboard light?

Cars are not the only love objects without a pulse. KansasCity.com has collected news stories about unexpected inanimate/animate pairings.

Apotemnophilia is written about rather extensively in Wikipedia. It is the erotic desire to have a limb removed. What provokes sympathy and mortification at the thought of being caught staring in most is a deep source of arousal for others. Those who get off watching these may not simply be objectifying these people, but imagining themselves in their place.

As with nearly every fetish you see here, this fetish is often combined with the love of feet (or foot) and footwear.

If you’re thinking of picking up your next parka at the Goodwill, you might want to make sure you run it by the cleaners before wearing it. Don’t get any ideas about this guy, ladies. A glance at his left hand lets us know he’s taken.

Destruction of the fetishized object:

Community Connection

We’ve all got our quirks. Do you see the appeal? Help the rest of us see reason in the comments below.

The Porn Star Photo (and Feature Photo): Môsieur J. [version 3.0b]

Below are categorized 8 of the worst kissing styles as reported by women who’ve traveled the world over.

The Fish Photo: jaroslavd

The fish turn his lips inside-out and rather than articulate them in the way one might if there were any actual nerves in them, seems intent on encompassing the partner’s lips in a wet and slimy embrace. Were his saliva red, it would leave his partner vaguely resembling Bozo the Clown. Thirty seconds with a fish and anyone with any kissing panache will be swimming against the current to get away.

Without prelude, the archeologist opens wide in a gesture that demands the same of their partner and then, with a hard and pointed tongue digs deep into the recesses of her mouth in an apparent attempt to discover any bits of kidney bean or spinach left over from lunch. This aggressive overture will quickly bury the present for posterity to be dug up over apple-tinis and belly laughs with the girls.

The Archeologist Photo: USACE Europe District

Usually accompanied by equally limp and timorous caresses, ON might (in total darkness) be mistaken for someone in a semi-vegitative state. The texture of the tongue brings to mind a raw scallop reanimated to terrorize and disgust those that would cross its path.

Encounter a chupacabra and you might fear that your eyes will cave in from the pressure. Heaven forbid that your nose is clogged or you might find yourself in need of the kiss of life. Chupacabra creates a vacuum that will leave you panting, but not in a good way.

A little teeth go a long way and the nibbler hasn’t been apprised. This tooth heavy kisser makes a snack from your lips, and while this style can be used as an accent, it’s best used sparingly like cloves or semicolons. One false move and you might need a stitch or two. Do not kiss a nibbler on a moving car or bus.

No, no, no. The lips are over here. It’s hit or miss with the hunter pecker whose pop kisses fall short of the mark and never amount to much even if they reach the target you’d think was intended. Trying to make out with an HP is like getting it on with Pepé le Pew and just as likely to have you squirming out of his reach while listening to words meant (we guess) to get you pecking back.

The Flipper Photo:robinvanmourik

In the way pinball flippers nervelessly jump, Flipper’s tongue has something to prove about its prowess in the cunnilingus department. Someone needs to tell him that a mouth is not a clitoris and that this sort of behavior is likely to make the demo more than unnecessary.

No one told this poor fellow that they kiss this way in porn because the air is believed to kill the harmful bacteria accrued in the previous scene. That or it’s all for show because the action takes place in plain sight. Video porn on demand is teaching the next generation that attempting to high five your partner’s tongue and then vibrating it violently while hissing to demonstrate your arousal is appropriate when really, it’s something best enjoyed alone with a jar of vaseline.

Community Connection

Find out where kissing can get you thrown in the hoosegow in No Kissing Law Passed in Guanajuato, Mexico, and be sure to read more tales of love at a dead end in Notes on Love at First Sight.

While gay marriage is permitted in 10 % of U.S states, marriage between cousins is permitted in 50%.

Photo and feature photo: masochismtango

H.G. Wells, Albert Einstein and Darwin all married a cousin. While gay marriage is still illegal in most of the nation, marrying your aunt or uncle’s kid is okay in half the states in the Union including four of the five most populated.

While many right wingers assert that the main reason to prevent gay marriage is to protect children, the risk of genetic mutation and birth defects resulting from shared DNA doubles in marriages between cousins (from 3% – 6%). There is no risk of birth defects to children from gay unions.

While many would cite confusion about the roles of relatives as a secondary harmful factor to children of gay unions, it may be even more confusing when it becomes necessary to explain how Andy is little Craig’s uncle and his grandpa or that Mommy and Daddy are both aunt and uncle and mommy and daddy.

For your information, marriage between cousins is permitted in Tennessee, Virginia, New York, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Alaska, Hawaii and Washington D.C., and with conditions (such as state mandated genetic counseling or that one or both of the parties be beyond breeding age) in Utah, Arizona, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, Maine.

Gay marriage is currently permitted in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, and Vermont, and will begin in New Hampshire on January 1, 2010.

Community Connection

Want to read more about gay marriage? Check out MatadorTrips’ Best American Spots for a Same Sex Wedding.

Is the global financial crisis affecting the Kiwis so profoundly that they have to rob the US of its richest eligible singles? Who else would be spending the nearly $800 for the ticket?

Photo: the half-blood prince

The tagline, apparently targeting the helplessly brainwashed, straight and desperate American masses with a grand to burn (consider the cocktails) is “How far will you go to find the one?”

Perhaps a more accurate question would be, “How pissed will you be when you spend $800 and travel half a world on an endless international flight to find that you can’t get laid here either and you’re not getting home anytime soon?”

Photos and Feature Photo: the jyan

Indeed, for those who find themselves having a terrible time, it’s far worse than a blind date in the ol’ hometown. Here there will be no escape from the glaring failure as Sandra skips off with a more sex-worthy catch and you wait for another overnight flight back to L.A. during which there will be only cocktail service and a courtesy blanket to comfort you.

The whole thing smacks of a reality show.

About the only guaranteed positive is that this may be the only international fight you’ll ever have been on without a relentlessly sobbing child.

Apparently armed with a camera at the ready at all times, poised to capture hot babe action, these two are always on the look out for what they call “man babes.” They catalogue them much as an entomologist does insect life, giving titles to the masses of hot men they find along the way.

Excerpted from the site:

Is it post-feminist? Is it silly? Will it bring a smile to your face? From the East to the West coast of the U.S.A. with submissions garnered from anyplace a babe can be found, the answers to the above questions are yes, yes, and yes.

The promise of sex with a foreigner crosses your mind as you make your reservations, browse hostels online and pack your bags.

Photo and feature photo: masochismtango

Will the women in the countries you visit be interested in you?  I can’t help you with that part, but it does seem in the places I’ve been that the guys who are foreign (you) have the cachet of being from somewhere else.  Depending on how you work it, you could be attracting girls left and right, but they won’t be going anywhere with you if you seem like a bummer of a lay.

Girls can tell a lot about whether they want to sleep with you in a few moments of closeness.  Allow me to share a couple of tips with you so you can make those moments count and get a second chance.

Desperation is obvious.

Before you even go out, you have to get the stink of it off of you. Whatever it takes to you to calm the hell down, do it.  There’s nothing that’s more of a turn off than a sexually desperate guy.

It’s all about the kiss.

Guys, I can’t stress this enough.  Once you’re into kissing, take it slow.  Follow her lead and tempo.  Far too many guys never get a second chance because they treat kissing like a game of thumb war, determined to take down the opponent’s tongue.  Don’t try to choke her out or restrict her wind pipe.  It’s not hot.

You should look at it as a way of getting to know her, not a way of proving that your tongue can go into turbo drive.  Be calm and self assured in your kissing and don’t get too fancy – at least not at first.

Photo: manu_el_o_matic!

Groping – Don’t give her the bad touch.

Be aware that a man’s and woman’s ‘erogenous zones’ do not operate in the same way.  If you haven’t figured it out yet, the skin of the vagina is like delicate tissue paper compared to what you’ve got.  If you get that far, don’t treat the crotch of a girl as you do your own.

Rule of thumb (and fingers): Use 1/10th the pressure you would on your own genitals.  If she wants it harder, she’ll make up for the torque you’re lacking – then you can adjust.

Tip – Try using the flat of your hand.  In the dark and through layers of clothes, it’s just inadvisable to go digging a single finger.  Use the butt of your hand to rub the general area.  You’ll be able to tell when you’re doing it right.

The most important thing is to be aware of her.

Is she responding to what you’re doing?  Change it up and see if she seems to like it any better.  Pay more attention to her reaction than to your pal downstairs and you might make enough of an impression to get her to pay a little attention to him.

Women like to think that you’re interested in what they have to say – maybe you even are.  If you’re not, you’ll have to fake it.  This extends to getting it on as well.  Ask her.  If she is quiet and less than expressive, ask if she likes the way you’re doing what you’re doing.  It’s such a rare thing to do, you’re bound to impress her.  If she’s embarrassed to say, ask her to show you.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, guys, but there are some nuggets of information that can serve you well on your home turf as well as abroad.  Use your foreign charm and  knock ‘em dead.

Photo above by Matthias Rosenkranz

Feature photo by Bruno Girin

Visitors to Calcutta get a taste of a culture that has been affected deeply by British colonization as well as more modern trends of globalization, all within a distinctly Indian framework. Some of the city’s best bars, clubs, and live music venues are listed below; in each, you can expect to see and meet an eclectic mix of people.

Clubs

Tantra

Park Hotel, 17 Park Street

Tantra is popular with the city’s young clubbers as well as local and visiting celebrities; expect to be treated even better if you’re staying at the Park Hotel. With a dance floor, an additional lounge area and two bars, this would be a popular place even if it wasn’t in such a posh location.

Stag entries are sometimes restricted. DJ nights, theme nights and jams on Sundays are special features.

Photo above by Bruno Girin

Roxy

Park Hotel, 17 Park Street

Another one of the Park Hotel’s offerings, Roxy is also a popular haunt with city clubbers and tourists. Try the snacks here: the kebabs and starters are worth taking a bite or more. Also, the cocktails here are pretty great. The ambiance is a bit less wild than Tantra’s, so head here if you want a laid back night.

The Underground

235/1 A.J.C. Bose Road

The discotheque at Hotel Hindusthan International is good for a night of dancing and drinking. Nice décor, good music, and some great visiting DJs who drop in from time to time. This is a theme nightclub, with decor recalling the London Underground.

Venom

#6, Fort Knox 8th Floor, Camac Street

A word of warning – this place has “members only” nights, so if you turn up on one of these you won’t get in. Otherwise, it’s quite a decent place to party, offering the usual dance floor and bars, as well as pool tables.

Photo above by danielle_blue

Shisha

22 Camac Street

The biggest attraction of Shisha was once its hookah bar; but since the smoking ban was passed, smoking in public places is an offense. Come March 2009, though, Shisha patrons will see a whole new look, and a new smoker’s den will allow patrons to smoke hookah again.

Other clubs you can check out are Dublin (at ITC Sonar Bangla), Fusion (at the Golden Park), and Cloud 9 (at the Astor). If you don’t feel like going to a crowded pub, then drop in at the Fairlawn Hotel at 13/A, Sudder Street for a relaxing drink.

Photo above by johnnyalive

Live Music

La Dolce Vita

3A, Humayun Palace, Behind New Empire Cinema Hall, New Market

Apart from resident DJs, a lounge area and bar, LDV also has visiting bands of many genres, including classic and alternative rock, funk, and hip hop. Calcutta especially adores rock music, and has its own brand of “Bangla Rock” in the local Bengali language (although I don’t think you will come across these any time soon at places like LDV).

This is one of the newest hangouts for headbangers, as well as loungers and clubbers, and is conveniently located in the New Market area.

Some Place Else

Park Hotel, 17 Park Street

An English pub in the Park Hotel, SPE has different acts playing each night of the week, as well as DJs. This intimate pub is one of the older and most popular spots for live music, especially rock.

Photo above by gabyu

The Princeton

26, Prince Anwar Shah Road

Although not situated near the Park Street or Camac Street areas, The Princeton Cluboffers many genres of live music and cheap alcohol. Live bands usually start playing by 9.30 PM, and the featured bands range from the already established to the up and coming.

Apart from this, some restaurants such as Trincas and the Xrong Place also have live music (mostly rock and jazz) regularly.

COMMUNITY CONNECTION:

Matador’s collection of nightlife guides is always growing: check out the Best of Bangkok Nightlife, the Top 10 Nightlife Spots in Mexico City, or the Top Dive Bars in Las Vegas.

Photo by mahalie stackpole.

Feature photo by psd.

Not so long ago, sushi was hard to find outside of Japan. In recent years, however, raw fish on rice has gone global in a big way. From Melbourne to Memphis and from Brussels to Beijing, no matter where you travel these days, you’ll never be far from a California Roll.

Somewhere along the way, sushi became the world’s sexiest food. Strangely enough, there’s something about sushi that makes sexy singles around the world want to take off their clothes.

How did sushi get so sexy? Here are some ideas.

Sushi Is Exotic

A sushi bar has a seductive perfume of exotic class that a steakhouse or Italian restaurant just can’t match.

Nothing is more romantic than foreign travel, but jetting off to distant lands is way too forward – and expensive – for a first or second date. Going out for sushi lets you and your date indulge in exotic pleasure without leaving the county.

Sushi is Erotic

A slab of raw tuna slides over the tongue. Salmon eggs pop in the mouth, releasing salty juices. A jolt of wasabi blows sinus passages clean.

Eating sushi is a sensual experience, a combination of visual anticipation, delicate presentation and sheer physical pleasure.

Photo by Jake of 8bitjoystick.com.

Sushi Is Expensive

By taking your date out for sushi, you prove that you’re rich enough to drop a wad of cash on tiny pieces of raw fish. You also send the message that you think your date is special enough to deserve an expensive meal.

Sushi Is Dangerous

OK, sushi isn’t really that dangerous. But eating raw seafood does feel a little bit risky. By downing a spicy tuna roll without blinking, you show that you’re willing to walk on the wild side.

Sushi Is Light

Ever try to have sex after three helpings of fettucini alfredo? Probably didn’t go so well, right?

A few pieces of sushi and some green tea ice cream won’t weigh you down. Sticking to a light meal will make you and your date feel frisky and athletic, primed for bedroom aerobics.

Sushi Is Sophisticated

No matter where in the world you travel, eating sushi marks you as a member of the global elite. Sushi is a luxury food, just like Starbucks is a luxury coffee or Mercedes is a luxury car. A sushi date shows that you’ve got money, but it also shows that you’ve got sophisticated taste.

Photo by Stefan Martins.

Sushi Is Salty

Soy sauce and traditional appetizers like edamame and miso soup are loaded with salt. As any bartender knows, salty food makes people want to drink beer. As any college student knows, drinking beer makes people lose their inhibitions and want to have sex.

Add in the fact that sushi is a light meal, and you and your date will get drunk – and horny – even quicker.

Sushi Is Sexy

No doubt about it, sushi is the sexiest food on the planet.

Feature photo by re-ality. Photo above by jeremydeades.

It’s sunrise. In fact, it’s my third sunrise this week. All around me, music blasts as hundreds of people dance and drink on the beach. Buckets and beers cover the sand and passed out people are checked on by the occasional passerby. I look around. Tonight was a lot of fun. Full moon raves always are.

What is the Full Moon Rave?

The origins aren’t fully known, but legend has it that in 1987 a group of young backpackers celebrated the birthday of a friend under a full moon in Thailand. They had so much fun they came back the following year and then the following month.

Word got out and more people came. Enterprising Thais saw an opportunity and hyped the party, bringing more people.

At first it was like a house party on the beach–a few hippies and backpackers playing guitars. The 90s brought the rave scene and all the drugs that went with it.

By 2000, Thailand was on the map and hordes of young people inspired by the movie The Beach were flocking to Ko Pha Ngan. The Full Moon Rave was in full swing.

Photo by zhaffsky.

What to Expect Now?

The Full Moon Rave has turned into a giant party with a lot of drinking, dancing, drugs, and sex. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different music every few feet.

The beach is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers put on shows. Little booths are also set up selling glow-in-the-dark face paint as kids run up and down the beach selling trinkets and glowsticks.

When Is It?

The full moon of every month. High season parties see about 20,000-30,000 people, with the full moon around New Year seeing the most. It you miss it, there’s always the half moon party, quarter moon party, and black moon party. Really, every day is a party here.

Click here for the 2008/2009 schedule.

Photo by nogoodreason.

Where to Stay?

There’s accommodation all over the island, but you’ll want to stay in Haad Rin so you can be close to the action. Bungalows start at about 300 baht and go up from there. Bungalows on the beach, despite what Lonely Planet says, are at least 1,000 baht a night.

If you want any chance at cheap accommodation, get here at least three days in advance. The closer you get to the party, the higher the prices are and the harder it is to find a room. Get here that day and you’ll need a miracle to find accommodation, especially if it’s during the high season.

How Do I Get There?

There’s no airport on the island, so everyone comes via ferry. You can arrive via the Surat Thani, on the mainland, or from its bigger neighbor, Ko Samui. From Surat Thani, roundtrip tickets cost about 600 baht and drop you off at Thong Sala.

From Samui, tickets cost about 400 baht and leave from Big Buddha Pier or Maenam beach. The Samui ferry will drop you off at the main dock of Thong Sala or at Haad Rin depending on time of day. During the full moon rave, boats go from Samui to Haad Rin every hour.

Travel Tips:

Photo by re-ality.

Costs

Here’s a sample budget for a full moon rave in Haad Rin:

Partying Tips

Drugs: There are a lot of drugs here, especially during the full moon. All drugs are illegal in Thailand and possession is punishable with time in the worst prison or death.

Undercover police will try to sell you drugs only to arrest you. Locals will rat you out for a reward. You could probably avoid jail by paying a hefty “penalty.” Simply put, doing drugs here is stupid. The risk is not worth the reward. Ever see Brokedown Palace? They weren’t making that stuff up.

Buckets: Buckets are little sand pails filled with one pint Thai whiskey, one Red Bull, and one Coke. They’re deadly! One, two, three, passed out on the beach! If you want to make it to sunrise, don’t start drinking buckets before midnight.

(Note: The Red Bull in Asia is a kind of ephedra. This substance is like speed and you’ll be flying high after one of them. It also negates the effect of the alcohol quickly, keeping you from feeling drunk. Be careful and watch your consumption of both liquids.)

Photo by timparkinson.

Safety Tips

Pre-hydrate: You are going to be drinking a lot and, even though it is night, the weather is still hot and humid. Drink a lot of water!

Avoid the ocean: It may seem like a good idea to play in the ocean, but it’s not. Not only do you risk drowning, but everyone uses the ocean as a personal toilet. There’s a reason why the water is warm, and it’s not because you are in Thailand. Stay sanitary and don’t go in.

Wear footwear: Partying on the beach without footwear may seem like a good idea but as the night goes on, broken beer bottles and other sharp objects litter the beach. Avoid a foot injury and just wear something on your feet!

Protect your belongings: Theft is ripe during full moon raves. Bring as little as possible. You’ll be drinking so much, chances are you could lose something. Bring enough money for drinks and a copy of your passport in case of an emergency. You don’t need anything else.

Community Connection

Plenty of Matador members have partied hard in Thailand, but they’ve also enjoyed other experiences as well. Check out 18 year old Rigo Lara’s article about his first trip abroad or Ian MacKenzie’s profile of Sean Aiken, who made his experience SCUBA diving in Thailand.

Photo by crashmattb

Let’s be clear: This is not a guerrilla guide to Nashville’s secret underground indie-rock haunts or its little-known hipster underbelly.

No. This is a guide to the Nashville you’ve always known existed, but probably never thought was worth visiting. It’s a Nashville full of corny cowboy merchandise, country music at full blast, and middle-aged RVers from Indiana. It’s also a helluva good time.

The Pitch

Once upon a time, country music was officially known as “hillbilly music” on the Billboard charts – and the reputation has stuck. Making an occasional exception for suitably counter-cultural types like the Dixie Chicks, hipster music critics won’t touch the stuff – and in the same way, too-cool travel types don’t often make the trek to country’s mecca, Nashville, aka Music City, USA.

But country has a rich heritage and a vital modern scene. It’s also quite possibly the greatest drinking music of all time. Frankly, Hank Williams Jr. is to beer-guzzling what Bob Marley is to ganja-smoking.

So come on down, hit Nashville’s finest honky-tonks, and throw back a Bud or three. Soon enough, you too might have some new friends in low places.

Where To Go

“They say the neon lights are bright on Broadway,” the old song goes. “They say there’s always magic in the air.”

Sure, the song’s about a musician trying to make it big in New York City, but it might just as well be about Nashville. Broadway forms the heart of the downtown scene. Live music spills out of several blocks worth of bars; the party gets going early and doesn’t stop till “early” comes around again.

Most places have no cover; the bands play for tips only, and no one pressures you to keep buying drinks non-stop – though if you’d like to, no one will stop you, either!

Be sure to hit Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, a historic dive that can claim legends like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Patsy Cline as past customers. Live bands play upstairs and down, from the early afternoon to the wee hours. The place draws a mixture of country music pilgrims, curious tourists, and die-hard locals, and can morph from a quiet sit-down scene to a foot-stomping dance floor almost without warning. It’s at 5th and Broadway.

Next on the strip is Robert’s Western World, a more laid-back place with an older crowd and talented cover bands playing traditional country: think more Hank Williams Sr. and less Lynyrd Skynyrd. It’s between 4th and 5th on Broadway.

Take a left on 2nd to hit the Wildhorse Saloon – one of the few places to charge cover. It’s got more of a nightclub vibe, with a young crowd, new country on the stereo system, and free line-dancing lessons on the floor.

Across the street from the Wildhorse, the Buck Wild Saloon is a karaoke joint, and a great place to end your night. Had enough liquid courage that you want to take your own shot at “Folsom Prison Blues”? This is the spot to do it. Be forewarned, though: On most nights there’s enough undiscovered talent rocking the mic in this place to fill an American Idol episode.

These are just a few of Broadway’s party possibilities – take a wander and see which honky-tonk is the happeningest on the night you’re in town!

Photo by mlsj_photos

Practicalities

Most of the live music venues serve food, too. There’s a Pita Pit on 2nd for a quick bite to go, and a BB King’s across the street for the chain-restaurant take on classic Southern dishes. Big River, at 1st and Broadway, is another decent dining option with great local microbrew.

As you might expect, downtown Nashville’s hotels are pricey, the usual bland big-name chains. They’re well-located if you can split with friends, though. The city’s official tourism site has info on special offers, and a booking system.

There are also a couple of hostels around the fringes of downtown – Music City Hostel is within striking distance of the Broadway bar strip.

You can take your pick of the cheap motels on any of the highways coming into town, but you’ll need a DD or a couple of steep cab rides. Demonbreun, one street over parallel to Broadway, has plenty of parking lots between 12th and 8th – you can pay around $10 and leave your car overnight, only a few blocks from the main strip. Another option is to check out Couchsurfing for well-located locals.

For the truly bad-ass budget party hound, Nashville’s Greyhound station is in the heart of the city, at Demonbreun and 8th. So if you’re really worried about blowing too much cash on cabs and hotels, you can roll into town in the early afternoon, party through the night, and stagger back to the bus station with the sunrise.

Photo by icanteachyouhowtodoit.com

How many times have you woken up wet from a wild sex dream? How many times in your intimate relationships have you had the courage and trust to share your dirtiest fantasy? Can you share the one sexual act you can’t wait to do but are embarrassed to talk about – what will your partner think?

Admit to it or not, we are all sexual beings who not only have an ardent need and desire for sex, but we want to be able to completely express ourselves in the act, without being judged.

Photo by icanteachyouhowtodoit.com

Any sexual inhibitions you might be dealing with will go for a toss when you visit Spain’s International Erotica Festival, which this year is being held in Madrid instead of Barcelona, from June 26-28. The location change is a result of the organizers wanting to give the show a significant facelift: new format, larger space; the presence of a wider audience and the ability to accommodate more gente–over 50,000 people attended the festival last year.

Every day from 5pm-5am there will be live erotic shows, lingerie shows, hardcore porn, sadomasochism, gay sex and orgies, all performed by 150 international porn stars. For additional lubrication, there’s also a Club Bizarre area – “only for those who will understand” and ongoing “fetish” parties.

The festival also serves as a platform to promote the latest porn films as well as provide a space for erotic art where you will see provocative XXX photos, images, graphics, animations, and sculptures. Reasons enough to go, no? Come on, you know you want a peek!

The idea behind the festival is to normalize and encourage the acceptance of pornography as an important part of life, with a variety of acts demonstrated under the pretext that almost nothing in sex is disgusting, or should be forbidden. Maybe an ideal opportunity to open your mind and widen your sexual horizons?

So whether you want that once in a lifetime opportunity to work in the porn industry, participate in a “gang-bang”, present yourself to cast in a XXX film, or just watch some live action purely out of curiosity, this festival would be a screaming and fulfilling opportunity.

Photo by icanteachyouhowtodoit.com

Have a home porn video stashed away somewhere? Maybe now is your chance to polish it up and submit it for the festival’s short porn film competition. All submissions must be 30-minutes long and submitted by May 20 – a bit short on time, but you might just be able to make it, otherwise you can always participate by voting for your favorite film and porn site.

Of course, other than the live action, the festival will be a one-stop-shop for everything erotic: clothes, to sex-toys and sex-dolls, DVD’s, aphrodisiacs, make-up, books, and anything else sexual.

Prices have not been revealed yet, and the venue Sala Fabrik is in the outskirts of the city – but not to worry, rumor is that regular bus services will be organized from the center. Information online is scanty at this moment, but until the international press begins writing about it, you can check out www.ficeb.com for updates. (It’s available in English, Spanish and French)

Photo by www.icanteachyouhowtodoit.com

One of the most exciting aspects of traveling is learning about a new culture. However, this “learning process” isn’t just limited to days in stuffy museums or visiting another one of the 100 churches in the city, but by exploring it with locals. And by “locals,” I mean hot, sexy men.

Sure, maybe life isn’t quite like Hollywood engineered romances such as “Before Sunset,” but at the very least, it makes traveling quite the spicy adventure.

So, if you’re tired of hearing men talk about their steamy travel encounters or sick of the stereotype that all women want “Harlequin style romances,” then ladies, it’s time we took travel and adventure by the “balls” with Matador’s list of the “Sexiest Men in the World.”

Berlin, Germany:

Berlin is THE place for traveling bookworms, artists and intellectuals looking for some stimulation – mental or otherwise. The stereotype of uptight, lederhosen-wearing Germans is no longer applicable in the 21st century. Berliners today are well-traveled, well-read and well, you know… sausage isn’t their national food for nothing.

Paris, France:

Paris, je t’aime! When it comes to romance, the men from the city of lights truly do live up to their reputation. Don’t expect berets and silly mustaches, as the French men of Paris have stepped it up a notch and have a much edgier style of dressing, philosophizing and pursuing women.

Though, a word to the wise, there are still many sleazy Parisians who enjoy “preying” on soft-hearted travelers who are obviously seeking dreamy love affairs. Sharks such as these have been known to hang out in hostels and tourist areas with the mission of picking up foreign “babes.”

However, the true men out there do know a thing or two about wining and dining, though it’s not the cheesy Hollywood created Paris affairs you’d expect. Instead of having dinner on the top of the Eiffel tower, you and your fabulous tour guide will check out the latest grungy cafe; and instead of having French poetry whispered in your ear, you’ll find yourself debating politics as you peruse open air markets, taste-tasting fresh fruits and cheeses.

Rome, Italy:

The cliché of the Italian lotharios is alive and well. That said, the effect isn’t quite the same knowing that most of them still live at home with their mothers.

photo by www.icanteachyouhowtodoit.com

Quick to brand themselves as “Italian stallions,” these men really do know how to lay the compliments on thick. Flirting seems to be a part of their genetic-cultural code, as the sight of any attractive woman seems to arouse a mouthful of “ciao, bella” or attempts at supposedly “seductive” maneuvers.

However, don’t dismiss these smooth boys just yet, as you’ll be charmed by their passion for protesting everything from the environment to legalizing pot, as well as their affectionate nature and love for their Italian mothers.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands:

The sexiness of the Dutch seems to be underrated, but these sharply dressed and quick-witted men really do deserve some time in the spotlight.

No, they aren’t all potheads and mushroom-eaters in Amsterdam – they leave that to the wide-eyed tourists. Though they’re not known for any hot-blooded romantic gestures, these “tall glasses of water” are well-mannered, skilled linguists and will be eager to show you some drug-free (or whatever) mind trips.

London, England:

From jokes about “British teeth” to “Benny Hill,” the boys from London sure do have it tough. Aside from celebrities like Orlando Bloom and Hugh Grant, Londoners in general are often perceived as cocky, stuffy and just plain unromantic. However, these lads have a charm that is all their own.

Their witty, self-deprecating jokes and remarks will have you falling off the barstool, while their knowledge of pop culture issues and trends will leave you flabbergasted.

Manila, Philippines:

If the hot and humid tropical weather hasn’t gotten you sweating yet, the Manila men certainly will. If you’re looking for some old fashioned, high romance, Manila men are as sexy as they get. From long drawn out courtships to thoughtful gestures, these seemingly conservative souls will make it their personal mission to sweep you off your feet.

photo by www.icanteachyouhowtodoit.com

Madrid, Spain:

The word “sexy” seems to be synonymous with “Spanish men”, and the men of Madrid are in a class all their own. Cool, sophisticated, charming, creative and oh-so-captivating, their passion and pride for their city is contagious.

Sydney, Australia:

There are a hundred reasons why Aussie blokes are considered hot. It could be their sexy accents, dedication to physical fitness and well, their sexy accents.

Now don’t assume that the men from Sydney are carbon copies of Crocodile Dundee or the late Steve Irwin, as Australia is a massive country where the outback is a world away from the city. However, the guys from Sydney are cosmopolitan, fun, cheeky and won’t hesitate to make shameless references to taking a trip “down under.”

Bangkok, Thailand:

Though Thailand is rife with foreign exploitation and is perceived by many sleazy travelers as their personal “sex playground,” the inclusion of Bangkok in this “Sexiest Men in World” list tries to avoid such stereotypes.

The men, as well as the women, in Bangkok are not only sexy because of their beautiful features but because they know everything there is to know about the latest music trends, have profound sensibilities towards visual art and a deep respect for their cultural traditions.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is more than just it’s famed Petronas Towers, this happening city also has a plethora of sexy, captivating men. It’s not just the food that’s savory, but also the guys, who are extremely cultured, intelligent and multi-dimensional. Be prepared to eat your heart out, as you’ll most on a taste-testing adventure through the streets of KL.

Photo by Celeste

In advance of choosing your next great escape, you may want to remember the following list, just so your decision will be fully informed. And so, in no particular order, the top 10 cities in the world for hottest girls…

Mendoza

No one is sure what causes it. The wine? The weather? The water? Whatever it is, it so happens that there is a staggering number of beautiful girls in the tranquilo little town of Mendoza, Argentina.

The majority of hot Mendocina women epitomize what you would expect from a smoking hot Latina: Brunette, olive skin, sharp, dark eyes and hourglass curves.

Go out on a Friday or Saturday night in January and there’s a good chance seven out of ten girls you see at the bars will be insanely beautiful.

Havana

photo by ~chicchun~

Mixing it up like nowhere else west of Tel Aviv, many Cubans can trace ancestry to several ethnicities. Tall women with striking features.

Havana nights live up to their reputation; the music will stir your soul. This is no place to be a shy gentlemen, but if you can’t open up with a few words of Spanish you’re sunk.

Tokyo

Tokyo’s twenty-something generation is full of movers and shakers. Tokyo is the original mega city, sporting funky styles you’ve never heard of.

Even though it can look a bit like consumerism gone mad, Japanese fashion is grounded to the features and body types of its wearers.

Expect a lot of big beautiful eyes, sleek raven hair, and legs to die for. Contrary to popular myths, Japanese women are very approachable and often speak English.

Dubai

That’s right, Dubai! It’s not all shopping and golf. With a population drawn from all over the region and the wider world, the ladies of Dubai certainly cause jaws to drop.

As in many predominantly Muslim cities, women find ways of expressing feminine allure in spite of their hair and bodies being largely covered.

Makeup and shoes are rarely worn with such tantalizing effects as they are in Dubai.

Istanbul

photo by El Cabron

A city that spans two continents and is home to some of the most beautiful women in the world. Forget any preconceptions of belly dancers, the women of this city are dynamic, modern and crazy diverse.

Aside from the archetypal Arabian Nights look, you will also find blonds and even the occasional red head. True to Mediterranean fashion, Istanbul residents are meticulous about appearances.

Most Turkish in Istanbul have a smattering of English and maybe a few other languages as well. Bar hopping is the way to go in this town. Can’t find a date at the traditional music café? Try the death metal bar next door.

Prague

Prague’s turbulent history has done nothing to quash its appeals. More often than not, Czech women feature in top ten lists of world beauties and with good reason.

Not a capital of style exactly, but certainly well turned out and proud. Prague’s streets teem with blonde haired, blue eyed beauties. A touch of old Europe.

Zagreb

photo by a tai.

Anyone who believes that Parisians are the world’s most serious people about their appearance has never been to Croatia.

In ads, store fronts, everywhere, there is a sense that fashion is not to be taken lightly–and with a population this hot, it’s hardly surprising.

Take typical northern Italian beauty, mix in a dash of Balkan mystique and even a little Greek charisma and you have an approximation of the hugely appealing Croatians.

Amsterdam

Amsterdamers are quick to brag that their city has a massive mix of nationalities. Indeed you will hear crazy statistics about up to 40% of the city’s population hailing from elsewhere.

A few days cycling around this city will have you gaping, trying to figure out which international city some of these angels just flew in from…and then there’s the native Dutch! Tall, fit, friendly, cultured, and usually multi-lingual. Do you need anything else?

Seoul

Be warned, there are already legions of white men trailing around Seoul, laboring under the misapprehension that they are the fairest of them all.

You would do well to adopt a different approach. Though parts of Seoul are ultra-modern, older values are important here and Koreans take relationships seriously. But if East Asian beauty floats your boat you’ve come to the right place.

Don’t confuse westernized with western here- Seoul style is singular and unique. And if anyone tells you that Korean women are docile and humble, you have been misinformed.

You wanna make an impression on a Korean woman? Be prepared to look silly–at least sloppy serenades and grandiose romantic gestures live on somewhere.

Singapore

It’s all about the accent. Singaporean English (Singlish) is at once sophisticated, endearing, cute, and sexy. Somewhere between public school Londoner, New Delhi socialite, and urban Chinese, this is English as it should be spoken.

Singapore’s year round humidity and relative affluence means that the summer range of fashion is constantly updated and the ladies of this micro-state are always a step ahead of it. Fashion-conscious, self aware, and demure, Singapore is smoldering!

Editor’s Note: What about all the hot guys! Stay tuned, ladies…”World’s Sexiest Men” will be published on Matador Nights next.

What cities did we miss? Share your thoughts in the comments!