Austin360 blogs > Out & About > Archives > 2008 > September > 29 > Entry
Michael’s Improbable Late-Night Adventure, Part 3
Continued from posts below…
Limousines appear profoundly wasteful during times of spiraling gas prices. Yet they can safely transport a half dozen or so partiers from one spot to another. So I accepted a ride in a graciously offered stretch carriage.
Our destination was another taboo-breaker for me: a “gentlemen’s club.”
Socially and morally, our country is deeply divided on this genre of adult entertainment. The argument that these establishments exploit women has been made, forcefully, convincingly, for as long as I have been conscious. On the other hand, millions of men and women patronize them regularly, without guilt, making the industry more money than all the fine arts combined.
(Sigh.)
As a reporter, I was curious. And, after all, our newspaper mentions these establishments frequently, often in a humorous context. What kind of open-minded social columnist would look away?
Palazio on Ben White Boulevard intentionally looks like a big steakhouse or small casino. Lots of leather or leather-like material. Well-spaced, comfortable chairs. An abbreviated stage.
But given the hurried late-night business, Palazio felt more like an upscale fast-food joint. Undraped women visited dark corners with men and — this surprised me — women. Every effort was made to impart a tone of unashamed, apparently legal activity, but also hygiene and a hint of luxury.
Well, I drank water, laughed and accepted no services. I’m sure I gave off a certain vibe, because none were offered.
Exiting the limo at Congress Avenue and Monroe Street, I smiled at my mild adventure. I don’t think I’ll duplicate any of these experiences any time soon, but taboos are made to be broken, and as a top editor at the Statesman once said, I’m a “serial transgressor.”
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