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Vanilla Alternative.
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
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Hi people.
Just wanting some advice regarding dress code at Vanilla Altenative.
Is it fully dressed all night or will be required to dress down?
Any other information gratefully accepted.
Thank you.  |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
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"As says above. If you stay in bar area then you can stay dressed. The website question section is good or feel free to message us  "
Thank you. I'm a little body conscious and would prefer a venue that doesn't force you to disrobe should you want to explore everything on offer.
We just want to experience the scene at first before we commit to any play. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"As says above. If you stay in bar area then you can stay dressed. The website question section is good or feel free to message us
Thank you. I'm a little body conscious and would prefer a venue that doesn't force you to disrobe should you want to explore everything on offer.
We just want to experience the scene at first before we commit to any play. "
I felt same way first time. Va is great at showing you around so you see everything (get there early for that) and can keep towels or undies on. But to be honest once we got our towels then disrobed for the hot tub it was so liberating, seeing all the different body shapes it really helps boost your confidence and make you realise you are who you are and no one cares! I'm never like that normally but I actually worry less there stripped to nothing then what I do out in a "normal" bar with clothes on! X |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"As says above. If you stay in bar area then you can stay dressed. The website question section is good or feel free to message us
Thank you. I'm a little body conscious and would prefer a venue that doesn't force you to disrobe should you want to explore everything on offer.
We just want to experience the scene at first before we commit to any play.
I felt same way first time. Va is great at showing you around so you see everything (get there early for that) and can keep towels or undies on. But to be honest once we got our towels then disrobed for the hot tub it was so liberating, seeing all the different body shapes it really helps boost your confidence and make you realise you are who you are and no one cares! I'm never like that normally but I actually worry less there stripped to nothing then what I do out in a "normal" bar with clothes on! X"
+1 for this. Me and Mrs are both fuller bodied people, and nobody was bothered when we were nekkid. Once you get there, get shown around and have a drink you will be fine. I would chat to a few people who go there beforehand to get a better idea, but there really is nothing to worry about xx |
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By *GHertsCouple
over a year ago
North Herts |
Can't speak for other places as we've only ever been to VA (several times since February!!) but I really recommend the club for first timers, and making you feel relaxed and welcome.
As others have said the bar/social area you're welcome to stay fully clothed all night long, and there's no pressure at all to move through to the play areas, or to undress if you don't want to.
If you do move through to the play areas, towels are provided, as well as locker space and once again there's no pressure to do anything more than you want. The hot tub is a great place to relax and chill, and yes watch some of the play going on if you want to. There is absolutely no pressure, no judgement and a completely relaxed atmosphere.
The staff are all friendly and welcoming and more than happy to give you a tour and introduce you to people if you want.
The only other decision to make is which night to attend - Friday's a limited number of single guys are allowed entry (except he first Friday of the month, which is Bi Night) and Saturday's is couples only.
Hope you take the plunge and enjoy it as much as we do!! 
Mr G |
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"Hi people.
Just wanting some advice regarding dress code at Vanilla Altenative.
Is it fully dressed all night or will be required to dress down?
Any other information gratefully accepted.
Thank you. "
When I went I wore clothes and it was fine |
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I was very body conscious when I started going. Now I would feel strange using the private play areas. I never thought I would be comfortable but once I realised everyone was cracking on with their thing and not ogling me I was fine x |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
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Thank you to everyone for taking the time to reply.
Very helpful and it's certainly a place we will consider.
As we've never visited a club we want to make sure we choose a venue that encourages us and doesn't turn us off to the idea.
Once again thank you for your time. x |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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We have been 3 times and I think the best advice is don't overthink it.
We have hundred of pounds of too sexy, not sexy enough of outfits that Mrs has pondered over but in the end what you are comfortable with is best.
VA is vaunted as a "up market club" which I found a little intimidating but it's really not like that.
It's very clean, we'll run and a safe place to be.
Wear what makes you feel good and if you are ready to get naked go for it.
X |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Perhaps we're old fashioned, but the VA format isn't optimum for us.
The notion that by 11.00pm the bar end empties, with everyone in the hot tub or in the open play area room isn't what we seek from a club.
Where's the thrill of anticipation...the chatting to people, the flirting, the dancing & having fun. Sure it's a swingers club & folks go there for sex...but it all seems a bit contrived that by 10.30pm you've got to be in the shaggin' part of the club or else be left on your own watching the barman drying glasses.
That said, I don't think the VA is likely any different to other clubs ....it's probably just us that seek something more like a great night venue ...with benefits should you choose to go that way. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Perhaps we're old fashioned, but the VA format isn't optimum for us.
The notion that by 11.00pm the bar end empties, with everyone in the hot tub or in the open play area room isn't what we seek from a club.
Where's the thrill of anticipation...the chatting to people, the flirting, the dancing & having fun. Sure it's a swingers club & folks go there for sex...but it all seems a bit contrived that by 10.30pm you've got to be in the shaggin' part of the club or else be left on your own watching the barman drying glasses.
That said, I don't think the VA is likely any different to other clubs ....it's probably just us that seek something more like a great night venue ...with benefits should you choose to go that way."
You don't have to move on. Just that everyone is keen to because the atmosphere is so relaxed and sexy. We have gone back to the bar area after that time. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Perhaps we're old fashioned, but the VA format isn't optimum for us.
The notion that by 11.00pm the bar end empties, with everyone in the hot tub or in the open play area room isn't what we seek from a club.
Where's the thrill of anticipation...the chatting to people, the flirting, the dancing & having fun. Sure it's a swingers club & folks go there for sex...but it all seems a bit contrived that by 10.30pm you've got to be in the shaggin' part of the club or else be left on your own watching the barman drying glasses.
That said, I don't think the VA is likely any different to other clubs ....it's probably just us that seek something more like a great night venue ...with benefits should you choose to go that way."
Where does it say you have to do that? The whole reason we love VA is the fluidity of the place. You could spend all night in the bar, on the dance floor or in the social areas talking and flirting. There is absolutely no expectation that anyone will move through to play. The only rule is that dressing down is expected when you do so that fully clothed people aren't standing around in the play areas which I found very uncomfortable when I went to another place that allows that. Even then, the dressing down doesn't imply you must be naked or in your underwear. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"I am thinking of going, what is the impression of single guys? "
Polite and well mannered single men are very welcome on a Friday night. They are restricted and have to register and pay beforehand so check website before going. We go on a Friday as we like the right single men  |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"I am thinking of going, what is the impression of single guys?
Polite and well mannered single men are very welcome on a Friday night. They are restricted and have to register and pay beforehand so check website before going. We go on a Friday as we like the right single men "
I am a very polite and well mannered man |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Where does it say you have to do that?."
?? I never said everyone *has* to go into the play area by 11.00pm ....but if you're candid, you'll agree that's sort of what happens...i.e. the bar end totally empties leaving only those who don't want to play at 11.00pm. Once the bar end empties the atmosphere has gone, the dance floor is Spartan, the bar area is dotted with just a few people here & there...like I say this isn't likely to be unique to the VA...people go to swingers clubs to erhm, swing.... but we'd rather have a venue that 'parties' with swinging as an option (I've read that Eurekas is more like that...so perhaps for us, that's a better potential club) |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Yeah it definitely empties and the hot tub becomes standing room only.
We cheat and tend to do hot tub early when it's empty and then back to the bar for a bit, or it gets too hot and crowded for me.
We have to leave by around 12 anyway (babysitters) otherwise we'd probably play differently.
You can do what you want, and after a bit the bar does have a few people back in it.
I asked the last time I was there and was told lingerie is allowed to be worn in the bar area after around 12ish. I'd rather it was dress down earlier, as we don't have the time to travel to other clubs that are further away. But it's still good. |
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For anybody who may be a bit nervous about what to expect wishing to try VA for the first time. Check out the Freshers night. It will only be about 4 times a year and may Be good chilled night to try it
https://m.fabswingers.com/forum/events/508019 |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I've been to all three clubs in that area
I didn't like the open play areas in va totally not for me , beautiful place tho .
Tease just get followed as not enough people there and lounge area tiny but private rooms and loads toilets
Jaydees loads private rooms large club my fave of the three |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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We like Jaydees (it doesn't feel as 'corporate' vs. the VA .....the VA whilst professional, is clearly only about the revenue - no harm in that, but not for us)...and Jaydees feels a little bit more sociable...but Jaydees really could do with going a little more refined/classy with better 'mood' lighting - the rustic vibe is not particularly erotic/ sensual (the hot tub is utilitarian, the saunas never in use)....but I know that costs £££s and can therefore only practically be addressed over time. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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" I didn't like the open play areas in va totally not for me , beautiful place tho . "
My wife was very uneasy in the open play area...we were on a bed nearest the corridor & it felt like Piccadilly Circus i.e. with all the people passing by, in/out. She prefers private so yes, we agree the VA open play is a marmite type area (you either love it or hate it)...it's what the VA sorely misses in my opinion...private play rooms. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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The majority of people are fully clothed in the bar area until at least 10.30pm, at which point, some of us ladies choose to venture off and do an outfit change (or 2!) into something more sexy! you will see sexy underwear and outfits coming out a bit later but it's all very tasteful
Full nudity is pretty much reserved for the hot tub/bed areas, so you have nothing to worry about and you are under no pressure at all there are also people of all shapes and sizes!
Have a great evening .... |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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" I didn't like the open play areas in va totally not for me , beautiful place tho .
My wife was very uneasy in the open play area...we were on a bed nearest the corridor & it felt like Piccadilly Circus i.e. with all the people passing by, in/out. She prefers private so yes, we agree the VA open play is a marmite type area (you either love it or hate it)...it's what the VA sorely misses in my opinion...private play rooms."
Also didn't like the mixed toilets |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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We have never found that and there are lots of people in the bar area until around midnight, there is no pressure to go off and do anything, so it must have been a quiet night.
We never play before about 12.30 and always have lots of lovely people to talk to in the bar! |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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" I didn't like the open play areas in va totally not for me , beautiful place tho .
My wife was very uneasy in the open play area...we were on a bed nearest the corridor & it felt like Piccadilly Circus i.e. with all the people passing by, in/out. She prefers private so yes, we agree the VA open play is a marmite type area (you either love it or hate it)...it's what the VA sorely misses in my opinion...private play rooms."
I have to agree with you there to be honest. We've booked to stay tonight for exactly that reason. We don't mind open play if we're in the mood for it but it's nice to have the option... |
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Interesting thread, so many opinions and everyone has their preferences which is why it must be hard for you OP! Like someone said, I would suggest not to over think it, just see how the night progresses and after all, you will never be under obligation to do anything you do not want to.
For what it is worth, we love the VA, the fact you can have a drink and a laugh with people in the bar area makes it a great night even if you choose not to play, and what's more is looks and feels like a great bar/club and not a pure swinging venue if that makes sense.
The first time we went we never played but had a great night and stayed over as well so a real bonus.
Enjoy yourself wherever you end up |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
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"Interesting thread, so many opinions and everyone has their preferences which is why it must be hard for you OP! Like someone said, I would suggest not to over think it, just see how the night progresses and after all, you will never be under obligation to do anything you do not want to.
For what it is worth, we love the VA, the fact you can have a drink and a laugh with people in the bar area makes it a great night even if you choose not to play, and what's more is looks and feels like a great bar/club and not a pure swinging venue if that makes sense.
The first time we went we never played but had a great night and stayed over as well so a real bonus.
Enjoy yourself wherever you end up "
Thank you.
We are planning on staying over wherever we go so as not to limit ourselves time wise and both make sure we can a drink and relax.
The different opinions are confusing, but if we all shared the same thoughts the world would be a dull place indeed.
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By *GHertsCouple
over a year ago
North Herts |
" I didn't like the open play areas in va totally not for me , beautiful place tho .
My wife was very uneasy in the open play area...we were on a bed nearest the corridor & it felt like Piccadilly Circus i.e. with all the people passing by, in/out. She prefers private so yes, we agree the VA open play is a marmite type area (you either love it or hate it)...it's what the VA sorely misses in my opinion...private play rooms."
That's interesting .... I know the bed she means and it can feel a bit disconcerting playing right there as people can tend to congregate in the corridor nearby - fully clothed sometimes (I don't think it'd feel so awkward if they were dressed down) and, apart from anything else, can have loud conversations about all sorts of mundane stuff practically in your ear which can be quite off putting. It's certainly my least favourite spot in VA but obviously there are lots of people who don't mind being quite so much on display!
Once you get more familiar with VA however, despite it being 'open' there are a number of relatively more 'private' spots .... the couples room for one, though strangely that feels a bit 'cut off' to me and therefore less atmospheric. There's also a curtained bed in the main playroom, the bed in the corner behind the hot tub and the beds in the small corridor from the hot tub area to the main playroom. None of these are completely private but a compromise if you're a little bit self conscious as there's not so many people walking past and/or looking.
I would take exception to the poster up thread who got the impression that VA's all about the revenue though .... I've never felt that at all and am usually pretty sensitive to places whose only interest is in turning a fast buck and sod their customers (I wouldn't go back to such places!). On the contrary, what's nice about VA is how the owners are usually around, it's not 'faceless' and they and their staff are all friendly, helpful and chatty. Drinks are very reasonably priced (as a private club they could charge a lot more) and often very generously poured! Definitely not what you'd expect from a place only concerned with money.
Ms G |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Yes, there was a curtained bed in the open play area...but frankly the open play area gets rammed & it's difficult to wait with a raging boner!
re the revenue comment I made earlier...as a businessman myself, I have no issue with others spinning a profit - after all, it's not a social service, it was just a passing comment that for example compared to the like of Jaydees, the vibe of the VA is very more corporate in it's appearance (better furnishings = higher gate charge etc) & demeanour (act like a bar in a west end club, charge west end bar prices)...fair play to them, but I get the game (& if you don't then they've clearly worked their magic well!)
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Oh, just one other thing...having decided to use the outermost bed (with all the notice & comings & goings that happen in close proximity)...I rolled back & felt my arse cheek roll onto a pool of a former occupant's jism...a memory that will stay with me for some time (clearly not the VA's fault, but when you are using an open play area that very dimly lit...it's hard to scope the bed for such issues beforehand!) |
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By *GHertsCouple
over a year ago
North Herts |
"Yes, there was a curtained bed in the open play area...but frankly the open play area gets rammed & it's difficult to wait with a raging boner!
re the revenue comment I made earlier...as a businessman myself, I have no issue with others spinning a profit - after all, it's not a social service, it was just a passing comment that for example compared to the like of Jaydees, the vibe of the VA is very more corporate in it's appearance (better furnishings = higher gate charge etc) & demeanour (act like a bar in a west end club, charge west end bar prices)...fair play to them, but I get the game (& if you don't then they've clearly worked their magic well!)
"
Sorry, didn't realise you'd made both of the remarks I referred to in my post ...
Can't comment on Jaydees as I've never been .... but no way does VA charge West End bar prices. Either you've managed to find some very reasonably priced West End bars (where are they ?!?) or else I always manage to end up in hideously expensive ones! |
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