A week in Zipolite

My report on the 39th International Naturist Federation (INF-FNI) World Congress in Zipolite, Mexico

A sunbathing local dog, embodying the laid-back spirit of Zipolite | Photo by the author.

From October 17th to 19th, naturist leaders and delegates from around the world gathered for the 39th International Naturist Federation (INF-FNI) World Congress in Zipolite, Mexico. Known for its bohemian culture and long-standing embrace of naturism, Zipolite was an ideal venue for the event. The famous nude beach, the hospitality of the local hotels and restaurants, and the charm of the village were highlights of the trip for me and my family. We arrived a few days early to soak in the relaxed atmosphere before the formal proceedings began, and spent most of our free time dining at and around our hotel, Budamar, a charming and nude-friendly spot with a beautiful pool, or playing in the warm Pacific surf with my five-year-old son.

The Congress itself took place at Rancho Los Mangos, a rustic campsite next to the Hotel Los Ángeles, just a short walk from the beach. Meetings were held under an open-air palapa, surrounded by lush greenery. Wandering chickens occasionally added a bit of humor to the proceedings. With daily temperatures in the low 90s and humidity to match, breaks often turned into group wade-ins into the abutting pool. Though technical issues with the WiFi caused occasional delays, the week was filled with engaging discussions, important votes, and great opportunities to connect with naturists from across the globe.

I had the privilege of attending as an observer on behalf of the B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation Institute and as a representative for the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR). Also present were multiple other Governors from the B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation board, including President Martin Novoa, Claudia Kellersch, Marv Frandsen, and Juan Marcos Casteñeda. It was exciting to meet delegates from many of the more than forty INF-FNI member countries, including the UK, Germany, Belgium, Serbia, Hungary, New Zealand, South Africa, Mexico, and many more. Notably, Nick and Lins of the popular channel Naked Wanderings were there, with Nick representing the Australian Naturist Federation as a proxy. Other recognizable naturist influencers and personalities were also in town just to be a part of the energy, including Hector Martinez, Angela De La Cruz, the folks from Full Frontal Life, Francelli Rentería, and others who are well-known on social media. The presence of so many recognizable naturist advocates added to the vibrant networking opportunities, making this a truly memorable experience for anyone who follows nudist/naturist culture.

For such a memorable experience, it was only natural that it came with a hearty side of conflict, a righteous sunburn, and more than a few mosquito bites (I stopped counting at three dozen). As luck would have it, I came home with a mild case of Dengue, a parting gift that added a feverish twist to my memories. Despite all this, I’ve done my best to tell the true story here as I observed it. This isn’t a comprehensive report of the Congress or its outcomes but rather a personal—and perhaps slightly biased—snapshot of my time in Zipolite. I’ve aimed to stay objective, though the experience was anything but neutral.

Historical context

The International Naturist Federation (INF-FNI), officially founded in France in 1953, was created to unify naturist groups globally and promote naturist ideals and interests. Serving as a coordinating body, it organizes its General Assembly every two years in a different country. During these congresses, delegates from each member nation set policies, revise statutes, and encourage international collaboration among naturist federations. INF-FNI also represents various member categories, from national federations to small groups and regions where naturism faces social or legal challenges.

Delegates of the 1st annual INF World Congress at Spielplatz in England, 1951. Front left on a chair is American nudist pioneer IlsleyBoone

The American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR), first known as the American Sunbathing Association (ASA) since the early 1930s, was historically aligned with INF-FNI but left in 2009 due to financial disagreements, particularly over INF-FNI’s mandatory fees for registering 100% of AANR’s members, which was a significant expense for AANR given its large member base. Despite this, AANR remains a major advocate for naturism in the U.S., while INF-FNI continues to serve as the global organizing entity for the movement.

Recent INF-FNI congresses have occurred in Luxembourg, Slovenia, Portugal, Austria, New Zealand, and more. The meeting in Zipolite represented the first general assembly meeting on an American continent since 2008 when it was held in Brazil.

Broad agenda and key discussions

This year’s agenda spanned a wide range of topics over three days of business, from governance reforms to strategies for engaging youth and promoting naturism in different cultural contexts. Key reports from the Central Committee, Law Council, and auditors outlined the organization’s financial health, legal matters, and future growth plans. Various national federations also shared their insights into how they promote naturism, leading to lively discussions about best practices. Special presentations addressed publicity strategies, youth involvement, and how to adapt naturism’s message to different cultural sensitivities.

The delegates convening around the tables in a palapa at Rancho Los Mangos. Observers are seated on the outside.

On the first day, Gustavo De La Garza, president of the hosting federation, introduced local municipal leaders and tourism representatives, who warmly welcomed the traveling delegates. With gracious words of thanks, they expressed their appreciation for choosing Zipolite as the congress location.

Following this, B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation Governor Claudia Kellersch organized a special presentation and fundraiser for the Playa Zipolite lifeguards, with two lifeguards in attendance to give speeches. Nick of Naked Wanderings then gave a compelling presentation supporting a local charity dedicated to spaying and neutering the thousands of stray dogs and cats in Zipolite and nearby Mazunte.

In addition to these presentations, the delegation made several important decisions, including one to streamline the process for convening extraordinary general assemblies to ensure faster responses to urgent matters. Another key discussion centered on rotating future congresses outside of Europe, with a focus on cultural outreach and financial feasibility. These proposals sparked debate, especially as the INF-FNI looks to extend its global reach.

B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Governor Claudia Kellersh (left) observes the EUNAT meeting on October 16th, before the beginning of the INF Congress

Recognition of Special Interest Groups

One of the most pivotal votes at the Congress focused on Statute §5, which involved recognizing Special Interest Groups (SIGs). SIGs differ from traditional Member Federations by focusing on specific issues or niche aspects of naturism on an international level. They could include advocacy organizations, educational bodies, or even for-profit businesses such as naturist resorts, provided they align with naturist values. Unlike Member Federations, SIGs may not be membership-based and instead focus on advancing naturist ideals through specialized projects or advocacy efforts.

An example of such a group is the B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation Institute, a non-member-based advocacy group that promotes body freedom and naturism on public lands, with a particular focus around beach access. Before the vote, Martin Novoa introduced the organization and emphasized its work in public education and legal advocacy. His speech highlighted the importance of such groups in contributing to the global naturist movement, even without the traditional membership structures.

The vote passed, allowing SIGs to apply for official recognition by the INF-FNI, pending approval based on specific criteria. This represents a significant step forward in broadening the INF-FNI’s inclusivity, allowing organizations of varying structures to support and engage with the international naturist movement.

One federation per country

Another crucial vote revolved around maintaining the long-standing rule allowing only one federation per country. This principle has been key to INF-FNI’s structure, ensuring that each country is represented by a single, unified body. However, the proposal at this congress aimed to modify the rule, allowing multiple federations from a single country to gain membership.

Proponents argued that allowing multiple federations would increase inclusivity and better reflect the diversity of naturist practices within a country. On the other hand, opponents raised concerns that this could fragment national representation and weaken unity at the international level.

In the end, the proposal to allow multiple federations did not pass. However, a significant change was approved: the Congress established a mechanism allowing a second federation to apply to replace the incumbent if they believed they could better represent their country’s naturist movement. This change is historically significant for the INF-FNI, as it offers greater flexibility in determining national representation.

Membership fees and AANR’s potential to rejoin

One of the most debated issues at the Congress was Statute §8, focusing on membership fees and a possible opt-in model. Since AANR left INF-FNI in 2009 due to mandatory fees, they’ve been interested in rejoining under a system where membership in INF-FNI could be optional for their members.

Three options were considered: keeping the current rule, which requires federations to pay based on their full membership; allowing federations to pay only for members who opt into INF-FNI, adding cost flexibility; or letting federations request case-by-case exemptions from the 100% rule, permitting optional INF-FNI membership as an add-on.

Changing the rule required a two-thirds majority. The initial vote for change reached 61%, and a re-vote brought it up to 65%, falling short by only 1.6%.

The narrow miss disappointed many, particularly since it impacted not only AANR’s potential return but also the Naturisten Federatie Nederland (NFN), which has operated in non-compliance with the 100% rule due to Dutch consumer protections against mandatory add-ons. To avoid expelling NFN—the largest naturist federation globally with around 50,000 members—an emergency motion passed, granting NFN a two-year grace period until the 2026 General Assembly.

While AANR’s opt-in model proposal failed, many delegates expressed strong support for finding alternative ways to bring them back into INF-FNI. Conversations afterward revealed that European federation politics, rather than opposition to AANR itself, had shaped the vote outcome. Many delegates voiced genuine interest in AANR’s return and suggested creative workarounds to make their reentry feasible under modified terms.

Leadership and new business

One of the highlights of the Congress was the election of key positions within the INF-FNI. Stéphane Deschênes was unanimously re-elected as President, with Dominique Dufour continuing as Treasurer, and Laurent Luft re-elected as the Europe Assessor. More key roles were also re-elected unanimously.

The only contested election was for the newly expanded Public Relations/Communications Officer role, where Hector Martinez from Mexico triumphed over Heather Cheney from the U.S. (represented by the Canadian federation FCN-FQN), securing 136 votes to 30.

Before the Congress concluded, Hungary was chosen as the host for the 2026 General Assembly, a decision that promises another important gathering in a country with a rich naturist history.

The author addresses the delegation.

During the new business section, B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation President Martin Novoa stood before the Congress again and presented a formal letter designed to lend legitimacy to any organization seeking support from elected officials, public administrators, tourism authorities, and other key regional influencers. He gathered nearly two dozen signatures from representatives around the world and encouraged federations and groups to use this letter in their own advocacy efforts.

This Congress also marked the end of an era, as it represented the final term of INF Co-President Sieglinde Ivo of Austria, who has served the organization for many years. Her contributions were recognized throughout the Congress by the Central Committee and other representatives. In one such gesture of appreciation, Canada’s FCN awarded her an honorary membership, underscoring the deep respect and gratitude felt for her longstanding dedication.

Toward the end of the program, I had the honor of addressing the Congress on behalf of AANR. While I was officially in attendance as an observer for the B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation Institute, speaking for AANR as their Public Relations Committee Chair was a privilege. I expressed AANR’s continued interest in rejoining the INF-FNI despite the challenges of the recent membership vote. The positive reception I received emphasized the strong support for AANR’s involvement and highlighted the cooperative spirit that pervaded the week.

Tensions and resolutions

By all accounts, this Congress saw far less drama than previous events, with many key elections passing unanimously. However, despite the overall sense of camaraderie, some tension arose specifically regarding my attendance, largely due to an article I had recently published here on Planet Nude about the Mexican Nudist Federation (FNM).

The article, which included revelations about conflicts within the FNM’s governance, was seen as critical of the Mexican Federation and stirred tensions within the broader Latin American naturist community, represented by the Comisión Latinoamericana de Naturismo (CLANAT). In preparing the article, I had tried joining the FNM to support their work and reach their leadership for comment, though my requests for comment were declined. Although my application fee was accepted, my membership was ultimately denied due to concerns over the article’s content. During the Congress, one Latin American representative publicly voiced his objections, calling the article a “hit piece” and even suggesting it was a coup attempt involving my colleagues from B.E.A.C.H.E.S.

During a break, I approached the representative who had voiced these criticisms. I explained that publishing the article had been my own editorial choice, made independently of any organization and with the intent to be fair and timely. He felt strongly that it had unfairly impacted his work and broader efforts and also suggested the timing was intended to cause disruption—a view I respectfully disagreed with. I insisted that it was never my goal to harm anyone, only to add value by telling the truth. Alas, he felt it had harmed him, and who was I to suggest it hadn’t? All I could say was that I hadn’t meant to—and that I stood by the accuracy of my reporting.

Unfortunately, we weren’t able to resolve our differences. To address his concerns, I offered him—and anyone else feeling misrepresented—a platform on Planet Nude to share their views, but this offer was ultimately declined.

I regret that my article created some friction for the B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation, especially since one of our primary goals at the Congress was to build informal relationships with leaders across the Americas. Given this was B.E.A.C.H.E.S.’s first formal encounter with the INF and Latin American naturist leaders, it’s natural that initial misunderstandings may occur as all parties get to know each other’s approaches and goals. Still, B.E.A.C.H.E.S. remains committed to its outreach, aiming to build trust and foster cooperation for the betterment of nude recreation. We all have much to gain by working together.

Closing thoughts

Reflecting on the INF-FNI World Congress, it’s clear that there were significant takeaways, both positive and challenging, for the American organizations I represented—AANR and B.E.A.C.H.E.S.

For B.E.A.C.H.E.S., the recognition of Special Interest Groups (SIGs) presents new opportunities for non-member-based organizations like ours to engage more formally in the global naturist movement. The ability to work alongside traditional federations offers a platform to push advocacy efforts forward, particularly in areas such as body freedom and beach access. This recognition is a huge step forward for organizations that align with naturist values but don’t operate under the standard membership model.

For AANR, the Congress was a double-edged sword. While strong support for AANR’s reentry into INF was expressed, the vote on membership fees fell short, leaving the organization without a clear path forward. Nevertheless, the discussions that emerged around potential workarounds leave hope that AANR’s involvement could still be possible under revised terms in the future. It was encouraging to see that the will for collaboration and inclusivity was there, even if the votes didn’t go in our favor this time.

Addressing the tension I experienced, I acknowledge that there’s an inherent conflict in both reporting on and advocating for the naturist movement. Advocacy naturally focuses on positivity and promotion, while journalism plays a different role—it fosters transparency and fairness, which are crucial to ensuring that our federations operate democratically and justly. This balance ultimately benefits the movement by strengthening its integrity and credibility.

But of course, this role can be disruptive, as was the case with my article on the Mexican Federation. While disruption was emphatically not my goal when I set out to write my report, I admit I expected that it was somewhat unavoidable. Alas, this wasn’t my first encounter with such controversy, and it likely won’t be my last. All in all, this episode was a reminder that this writing and this work does have an impact, sometimes in ways that aren’t easy to see.

Despite the friction that arose—which was primarily addressed outside of official proceedings—the Congress itself was largely harmonious. Aside from a few technical issues, the week’s activities were notably collaborative and filled with good humor. Much credit goes to the INF-FNI Central Committee, including Edwin Kilby and Stéphane Deschênes, as well as the Mexican Nudist Federation (FNM), for making this year’s event a success.

Group photo in the pool, day two of the Congress. Pictured here are representatives from roughly two dozen different nations.

All in all, the Congress was a tremendous learning experience and a wonderful privilege. The passion of naturist leaders from around the world, the relationships built, and the valuable discussions held made this event an unforgettable milestone in my journey. Plus, the tropical backdrop that Zipolite provided was a true naturist paradise that my family and I will never forget, and I hope to return many times in the future—though hopefully with a stronger mosquito repellent.

Of course, I hope to attend future assemblies and keep supporting the naturist movement and this remarkable community. 🪐