Maybe a weird question, and I'm sure the pandemic has changed things, but is cruising still something gay men do much of? I live in a very gay friendly city and I know there used to be cruising spots, but has that become passe? (and yes, in a healthy safe way)
It always has been a thing and it always will be. I'm sure the pandemic made people more wary, but I don't think it will stop crusing altogether. Some guys feel it's the only way they can 'safely' and anonymously explore their sexuality and for as long as that remains the case, crusing will continue.
Thank you for that answer @PatrickUK It feels like its part of the history of this movement, and to explore it safely is very intriguing.
I have no idea why the apps are so popular. Where do people go? To each others' homes? That seems like it could be unsafe. Some people use legit recreational places for this purpose. They'll go to a beach or a forest that is meant for everyone's recreation but may also have an area where people can hook up. This would be unsafe because a person can get busted. This sort of thing has probably tapered because of the apps too.
Gay men going to certain locations, parks, hiking trails, etc, that have a reputation for sexual activity. Making eye contact with a guy, understanding mutual interest, and then a discreet (and taking all safety precautions) hookup. As I immerse myself in gay history, the cruising scene goes way back. There are dangers to it and you have to be very careful. That would be my explanation for it and happy to hear anyone else's.
It could be hanging around somewhere that has gotten some notoriety for people making initial contact and taking it somewhere else or doing whatever it is right there, which is probably illegal. Gyms seemed to have a fair share of it. It was noticeable in some places. They have been called the new singles bars. They've headed off some of these places by making access impossible or illegal. Maybe even shutting down certain places like parts of a gym. Cruising and loitering might be the same thing.