Funny story! Reminds me of my youth in Chelsea, learning the ropes. Newly transplanted from the Midwest, I was so callow I didn't realize that my gym, the McBurney YMCA, was the very same YMCA that inspired the Village People. I worked out there for a good year before I realized the steam room wasn't just about relaxation!

How did I miss it?

Well, I guess for some of the same reasons you point out. And also because I'm a terrible observer, I guess. 🤣

Thank God I got clued in on the whole cruising scene before I started frequenting Brighton Beach. Under the boardwalk wouldn't have been nearly as much fun otherwise.

Also, the dunes outside Provincetown.

And Fire Island.

Glad I dodged that bullet!