If you have a question that isn't addressed here, just ask us.

I'm interested, but how do I get my wife interested in swinging? (We will use the wife for all these examples, because that is what is most common, but it also could be the man.)
This is probably the most asked question of us. First, swinging is not for everyone and maybe your wife is one of those who shouldn't. But, if you truly believe that she might be OK with it, then here our some of our thoughts on it.

So how do I bring up the subject of swinging to get her interested?
Communication! This is biggest cause of swinging couples problems (come to think of it, all couples). You should have good communications (or develop it) if you are going to swing. Talk about your fantasies. Show her things like this document (be sure whatever you show her has something that will interest her). Again, talk, talk, talk. We can't stress it enough!

OK, she says she will consider it. How do we start?
Depends on your situation and where you live. We are based in Auckland, New Zealand, where there are 2 commercial on-premise swing clubs. Parties can also be found. If you live somewhere that does not have any Clubs, you will probably have to be more creative. We started by advertising in one of the national swing magazines with fairly good success. Now days the future is on-line. You might be amazed on how many couples that you will find on the Internet.

How do we meet other couples?
Simple. Answer ads. Go to the Clubs. Go to the parties. Be out-going!

So we are going to a couples dance, party or Club. What do we wear and what do we expect?
Dress depends on the party or Club. Ask your host or other club members. Usual dress will be casual, but neat. Remember, you are trying to make a good impression. What to expect depends on the event. But whatever it is, be relaxed. No one will make you do anything against your will. So "go with the flow" and have a good time.

What kind of people are swingers?
Very normal people. We've met everyone one from neurosurgeons to ditch diggers. Swingers tend to be outgoing, less conservative, sometimes outrageous. They tend not to be religious. Physically you will see all types; tall or short, skinny or fat, young or old, and all mixes in between.

OK we will answer or place an ad. What should we say?
Say the truth. Honestly describe yourselves and what you are looking for. Be specific. If you are placing an ad, photos will increase your response. No, it doesn't have to be nude or "action". Just the opposite is true. Sexy is better than slutty. When answering ads we recommend that you don't send nude photos until you know the person on the other end is for real. There are many "photo collectors" posing as couples. Also photocopies are fine for first letters.

OK, we answered an ad. How should we meet?
Our recommendations are to meet at a neutral setting (IE restaurant or lounge). This makes it much easier to leave if things don't go well. Be on time and make sure that you have given each other specific contact information (IE. What kind of car, dress, etc). Prepare preset signals to communicate between the you and your partner, such as yes, no, maybe, let's get the hell out of here.

So now we've met and want to get down to business. What from here?
Don't be shy, ask. Make arrangements. Talk between the couples. What are the rules? Same room, different rooms, etc. Once the ground rules are set, go for it. Just remember, NO means NO, at any time.

I'm a single guy. How come so many ads say "no single males"?
To most of us in the "lifestyle", swinging is not only physical, but philosophical. Swinging is sharing. Sharing is two-sided and single guys tend to be takers and not givers. We know that's a generalisation, but from past experience here are some problems we have seen. Single guys seem to be self-centred (IE, What's in it for me?). They tend to be rushed (IE. Hi. Let's fuck.) We have had a real problem with them becoming too attached and clingy (IE. Falling in love with the lady). Single guys are viewed as being a greater health risk. Now all that is not to say that a single can't be successful finding couples. It happens all the time, but you must realize that swinging is still a couples game.

What about safe sex?
Many couples insist on it, some don't. It is a personal decision between you and your partner. There are many scary diseases out there so, do what you feel comfortable with. In 14 years, we have only heard of a couple of incidences of STDs in the swinging community. So on the whole it's not a problem (unless you beat the odds). We will say that the AIDS scare seems to be overblown. AIDS shouldn't be the reason for not swinging, because it is easily prevented. I would worry more about the more common STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhoea or hepatitis B (there is a vaccine for that one, get it). Never let anyone tell you not to use protection, if that is your desire.

What is "soft" and "hard" swinging?
Hard swinging usually mean that sexual intercourse is involved. Soft swinging is everything up to intercourse or in some instances not swapping partners.

What is a "hardcore" swinger?
A couple who's only interest is sex and lot's of it. Their life tends to revolve around swinging.

What is a "Wannabe"?
Usually a single or married male that is trying to get involved but doesn't have a partner. So they will lie about a partner to meet you. The partner then "conveniently" can't make it. Even worse is the "wannabe" that will bring an unsuspecting person as their "ticket" into a couples party.

My wife or I are a little overweight. Should we wait till we lose wait to swing?
Well, it's always nice to lose a little weight if you need to. But don't let that stop you. You will find all types (and shapes) of couples at events. So don't worry (but being HWP [height and weight proportional] does give you more options).

So tell us the most important things you can tell us about swinging from your 15 plus years of experience?