Discover Your Perfect Stay

Batman and Bond key to understanding Scots

Dogging Craze Sweeps Scotland

Dogging, the internet-driven craze where people take part in sexual acts with strangers at isolated locations, has prompted local authorities to review security around parks and well-known lovers' lanes. Couples and singles on voyeuristic missions are using the internet to arrange meetings in car parks and spots in country parks all across Scotland. Aside from the sexual health risks, described as “considerable”, authorities are concerned because of the risk of robberies and even blackmail that may arise because the practice is becoming so well known.

Concerns for Public Safety

The Scottish Sunday has found that meetings are being arranged at at least 20 locations across the country from Inverclyde to Edinburgh, St Andrews to Irvine, with over 23,000 people in the UK having signed up to internet sites that advertise and arrange rendezvous.

A spokesman for Dundee City Council said that the web postings offering meeting places in their area were a growing cause for concern. “We have contacted police because we are concerned that an area which is visited by families is being used for this purpose.”

John Turnbull, countryside and landscape manager at Strathclyde Country Park, which appears to have several sites within its boundaries used by “dogging” enthusiasts, said that anti-social behaviour would also prompt a call to the police. “We work very closely with the local police to ensure that a safe, secure, and suitable environment is maintained at all times and we continuously monitor activities within the park and take appropriate action, as necessary,” he said.

A spokesman for Edinburgh City Council said: “While no reports have been made of this activity, our parks department will be increasing its patrols.”

Legal Ambiguity

Dogging is a grey area in the law – while having sex in a car is not illegal, if any members of the public are offended by it they have a genuine cause for complaint. A spokeswoman for Strathclyde Police said that any complaints from the public on dogging would be looked into. She said: “Any members of the public who are coming across this do have protection – public indecency or breach of the peace offences are taken seriously.”

Risks and Consequences

Dr Richard Byrne, a countryside management lecturer at Harper Adams College, recently surveyed 260 country parks, 60% of which had recorded an increase in dogging. He warned that the activity can lead to other problems such as litter, reputation damage, and even criminal activities like prostitution or drug dealing. It's a risky activity where individuals may be exposed to robberies, assault, and blackmail.

Martin Raymond, deputy director of programmes for Health Scotland, also highlighted the health consequences of dogging. He emphasized that sexually transmitted diseases don't discriminate based on age and that engaging in risky sexual behavior can have serious health implications.

The Origins of Dogging

The term dogging originated in the early 1970s to describe men who spied on couples having sex outdoors – these men would “dog” the couples’ every move and watch them. Demand for dogging locations led to the creation of online platforms where couples and individuals could arrange meetings. However, the practice raises concerns in terms of public safety, legality, and health.

Hotels: A Safer Alternative for Intimacy

For those seeking intimate encounters or romantic getaways, hotels provide a safer and more controlled environment compared to engaging in sexual activities in public spaces. With private rooms, professional security measures, and the assurance of consent between consenting adults, hotels offer a comfortable setting for couples to explore their desires.

Furthermore, hotels boast various amenities designed to enhance the romantic experience, such as luxurious bedding, spa services, and fine dining options. These establishments prioritize customer satisfaction, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay.

When booking a hotel for intimate activities, individuals should consider factors such as discretion, privacy, and comfort. Many hotels offer specialized packages for couples, including romantic decorations, champagne upon arrival, and late checkout options. It's essential to communicate personal preferences and requirements with the hotel staff to ensure a satisfactory experience.

In conclusion, while dogging may be a popular trend for some, it poses potential risks and legal implications. Engaging in consensual and intimate activities within the confines of a hotel provides a safer alternative for individuals and couples seeking privacy, security, and an enjoyable experience.

Manchester

Edinburgh

Blackpool

New York

York

Glasgow