While billed as exclusive gentlemen's clubs, most lap-dancing venues are cramped, down-beat establishments, writes Conor Lally.
Dozens of clearly non-national women wearing very little scan the room looking to make eye contact with punters. Once a conversation is struck up, small-talk quickly gives way to the business of the night: "What do you like and how much do you want to spend?"
As the details of transactions are agreed, stocky security guards look on and are quick to move in if the "no touching" policy is violated.
Few Irish women work in Irish clubs. The lap-dancers are mostly from eastern Europe, with a smaller number of Africans also working here.
Most clubs offer a variety of dances. Prices start at €15 for a three-minute session in a private booth during which the dancer is briefly topless. The booths are situated away from the main lounge but are big enough to accommodate up to three lap-dancers and their clients at any one time.
For those with deeper pockets, many of the clubs offer 45- minute sessions in a completely private room for up to €450.
Lap-dancers can be seen leading clients by the hand in and out of booths all night. Money changes hands at a till outside the private booths. The cash is handled by male staff.
The clubs accept credit cards as well as cash. In order to ensure maximum discretion, the name of the club does not appear on a credit card bill. The name of a non-existent restaurant usually appears.
Most of the clubs charge an entrance fee, usually between €10 and €20. Drinks are more expensive than in regular bars with a pint of larger costing up to €6.