Finding Safety for Sexy Times in Paris
Being an expat in Paris means saying adieu to many familiar things, including prophylactics.
When you’re still learning how to say ça va in French, you surely don’t know how to ask for the kimono-textured, sheepskin, rainbow-colored, non-latex, ribbed, lubricated, glow-in-the-dark, flavored or warming condoms, in your new country.
Being an expat in Paris means saying adieu to many familiar things, including prophylactics.
Suddenly, your favorite condom is no longer available. So you’re not only contemplating having sex with a foreigner, but you’re also considering using a foreign product; not a worry-free situation.
This can’t be real life
In the U.S., the most widely-used condom brand is Trojan, accounting for two-thirds of the market. In France, on the other hand, the most popular brand is Manix. The name means nothing to those of us coming from the new world, where we long-ago settled on our condom of choice, based on word-of-mouth knowledge, reputation or brand.
For some of you, especially women, moving abroad may have made you a first-time condom buyer. In a foreign land, perhaps women should be more proactive about buying the right kind of condom, to take their safety in their own hands.
“[Young people increasingly] use a condom the first time they have sex but not in subsequent instances.”
Here are are some tips for how to go about doing that, when abroad:
Pack a short-term supply
If you have a latex allergy or a personal preference, pack a box or two of your favorite condoms before you leave your country. That should give you time to get familiar with the local brands.
Ask acquaintances
You’re in a new city, meeting people who aren’t your friends yet. But they are locals and practice safe and responsible sex, so don’t hesitate to ask your acquaintances about their favorite local brands. Reputation matters. If you hear a lot about a particular brand of condoms breaking, then obviously, that’s a red flag.
Talk to a pharmacist
If you feel uncomfortable broaching this subject with acquaintances, try the local pharmacist. Don’t be afraid to attempt a game a Franglish. They are experts, and its their job to help you!
Grill a doctor
If you’re planning to stay in France for a while, then you should consider finding a general practitioner for the duration of your stay. A GP can answer all the condom questions you may have.
Vending machine
You have a late night need. A Tinder bae on deck. Trust the cities’ vending machines before deciding to skip the condom.
Go Online
Finally, dental dam is doing a disappearing act in the United States and abroad. Oral sex is sex, guys, and you’re not protected just because you’re using your mouth. Check out Amazon, it’s one stop shop for many things, including for those hell bent on finding their favorite condom abroad.
Remember, no prophylactics protect against all Sexually Transmitted Infections, including the French ones, but better to wrap it up.