Sex, Thighs, and Videotape: Atlanta's Best Adult Stores

Even in the 21st century, sex still remains a very taboo topic in the United States. Still, that hasn't stopped numerous adult stores from going into business in practically every state, particularly in large cities. Atlanta, like its metropolitan brothers and sisters, has its share of sultry sex dealers lining the streets.

Inserection

This most visible adult store is found in numeous locations across ATL, as well as Athens, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; and Jacksonville, FL. Their motto is "Welcome to the Sexual Revolution," and most of their customers would agree that they live up to it. Like most adult stores, they carry a wide variety of adult DVDs, hopefully featuring your favorite porn star. In particular, they have such starlets on display as Jesse Jane, Jenna Jameson, Belladonna, and Taylor Rain. Practically any genre of porn is available as well, with the notable (read: illegal) exceptions of bestiality, rape, child pornography, and snuff films (why anyone would ask for these publicly is a subject for a different article). Nonetheless, some of the employees say they occasionally get requests for these outside-the-mainstream offerings.

In addition to their videos and magazines, Inserection is notable for its collection of sex toys and marital aids, if you will. Again, if you can imagine it...they probably carry it. They proudly display such vibrators as the Grrl Toyz Dream Dolphin, a seven-function toy available for $74.99 (did you know there were seven-function sex toys?). Also available from Grrl Toyz is the Heart-On Orgasm Ball, a waterproof insertable toy on sale for $17.99. If unavailable at the store itself, any of these items are available through Inserection Online as well.

There are, of course, toys and games available for couples as well, including Passion - The Game and the Kama Sutra Raspberry Kiss Gift Set.

Southern Nights Videos

When driving along Cheshire Bridge Rd., where you'll come across numerous gentlemen's clubs and adult stores, another that stands out is Southern Nights Videos. This store, while lacking in some of the glitz and glamour of Inserection, offers just as wide a variety of DVDs and magazines. In fact, their selection is perhaps broader than that of their main competitor.

Because the store is smaller, there's a better chance that you'll receive the customer service you're seeking. However, this isn't to say that the employees at Inserection are unhelpful. Like visiting a local coffee shop, you may appreciate Southern Nights for its low-key feel, great DVD selection, and friendly staff.

One thing is for certain; at these stores, unlike CVS Pharmacy or your average video store, you'll never have to feel out of place asking questions about any sexual product. The employees have basically seen (and heard) it all. Like the pharmacies, they offer many brands of condoms suitable for both men and women; the major difference is that they have a larger and more varied selection.

In the area of birth control, stores like Inserection and Southern Nights carry condom brands you won't find in any drugstore. For example, the Bareback Condom, manufactured by Ansell Healthcare Products, Inc., are made of very strong latex, but slightly thinner than most brands found in major pharmacies.

Controversy

You may also find it surprising (or because it's The South, perhaps not) that certain sex toys, particularly dildos and vibrators, are illegal in some counties. Both Inserection and This, That, and The Other, a similar merchant of sexual toys, have been hit with misdemeanor charges for their sale of such devices. Owner Michael Morrison of Inserection has had an attorney argue on his behalf against the obscenity laws (in GA State Supreme Court) and lost, according to a May 2001 article in Atlanta's Creative Loafing.

Another tidbit that may strike you is that many of these shops sell smoking products, including blown-glass pipes and water pipes (yes, for tobacco use only, kids!) Although some of these products are popularly associated with marijuana, all of the stores make it clear that such pipes are not intended for that use. Therefore, you do so at your own risk.

And, In Conclusion...

Though the layouts of the various locations are somewhat different, most have separate sections for the various DVDs, magazines, and toys. Part of the fun, perhaps, is in the exploration of the store, which can be done solo, or with your lover or spouse.

So, when all is said and done, should you visit Inserection and Southern Nights? Absolutely, if you're not ashamed to do so!

And despite what some of the laws may say, what you do in the bedroom is entirely your own business.