Safety First

 

Text by: Urban Malek

Some of you know me as the "personal coat checker" at your favorite cruising bar: Le 7.

Today, I would like to share with you a little thought, born both from my astonishment... and, let's say, from a certain concern.

I notice that many friends, under the pretext of taking PrEP, believe that condoms have become optional. So yes, PrEP is a great tool: it protects against HIV. But, my friends, it has no magical effect against other STIs, STDs, or hepatitis... And in a place where there are multiple partners, it goes without saying that the risk is very real.

Fortunately, our hosts have shown exemplary generosity by providing, free of charge and in all cabins, gel and condoms. A small preventive gift that is just waiting to be used. (Enipse Délégation Nice).

So, please, don't gamble with your health—or that of others.

Respect yourself, let's respect each other! A pleasure is always more enjoyable when it's not followed by an unpleasant surprise.

This message is not a moral lesson (I leave that to the priests, the "bad" ones and the shrinks!), but simply a hand placed on your shoulder, like that of a somewhat paternal friend, who would like to never have to cry for you.

Take care of yourself, so that the party remains a party.

The other night I came across this post on a local LGBTQ Facebook business page, and it really struck a chord with me.

Way back when I managed bathhouses for over a decade, our goal was always the same: to make sure people had the best possible time—but in the safest way. To help with that, we brought in a health practitioner once or twice a week for free one-on-one consultations and group discussions. It gave people a space to ask questions, get answers, and make informed choices.

Now, living in what I affectionately sometimes call “vacation land,” I see this from a different perspective. Each season brings a wave of visitors eager to experience the French Riviera. Often, you can spot them right away—fresh off the plane, with a blank look and full of excitement, with “holiday mode” practically written across their forehead.

They’re ready for adventure and sometimes forget that even on vacation, things can go wrong. I’ll admit, I’ve been guilty of the same myself.

So, to keep this short, I’ll echo the wise words of Urban Malek: “Take care of yourself, so that the party remains a party.”

If you’re visiting any of the gay bars/cruising venues in Nice, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for some action. And if you don’t see lube or condoms available, just ask the staff—they’ll usually have fresh supplies to hand out for free. You can also buy them at any local pharmacy before heading out.

Stay safe, play smart, and enjoy everything the Côte d’Azur has to offer.