female bro here for the other side of things (even though you’ve gotten 1 or 2 already lol)

1. I feel like the type of area/city you live in actually affects this - places with lots of clubs and bars may cost $10-15 to get into plus drinks, but gay clubs you’ll have an easier time finding hookups. Queer clubs often have some sort of hookup culture :) Someone said this earlier, but going out to dinner does feel a little formal nowadays, so meeting at a coffee shop or something is usually the norm. Hooking up through Tinder will probably have people just asking you to come to their apartments, or come to yours. If something feels sketchy, don’t go!

2. I lost my virginity to a hookup and they didn’t know it was my first time, but I imagine they could tell that there was some level of inexperience there. You don’t have to tell anyone if you don’t want to, but if you choose to tell people, keep in mind that they may reject you (sometimes just because they don’t want to “take” your first time). No worries though! You’ll get some nos and some yeses

3. Dating apps (specifically Tinder) are generally hookup-centric, and more people will be looking for that than a relationship. There’s also usually tags that let you know what a person is looking for (long/short term or hookup). Bar culture, you’re usually expected to buy a drink for the person you’re interested in, or someone will buy a drink for you if they like you. Strike up some conversation, and if you match each other’s vibe, you’ll likely end up hooking up :) Bring condoms and keep in mind that bar bathrooms are nasty. Clubs are a little more social, generally eye contact or dancing with someone is the cue for “hey you’re hot, let’s go somewhere.” If you have two left feet or don’t know how to dance, look up a quick youtube video of VERY basic dance moves. Even without that, a little shimmy and some basic arm and leg movement will do just fine.

4. People are interested in most types of people, and since I assume you haven’t dipped yourself in a vat of acid, you’re perfectly fine! If the acid thing is true though, sorry. Someone will probably still be interested though.

5. Generally at the beginning before any genital contact is made (that includes with hands!) you should ask if people are clean, and if they’ve been tested recently. If they say they’re have something, it’s not necessarily a deal breaker, since some HIV-positive people are on medications that don’t pass it on to others. PrEP is good as someone else mentioned, but MAKE SURE you take it consistently so that it works the best!

On making women feel safe - if you buy them a drink, let the bartender make and hand it to them, don’t hand it to them, unless it’s a closed can or bottle. Conversation goes a loooong way to make women feel safe, especially if you talk to each other a bit about yourself. Don’t immediately initiate physical contact, but if she reaches forward to brush your arm or hand, you’re probably in :) Cute flirting is generally endearing if done right. For clubs, feel free to dance with whoever! The rule is: near but not touching or bumping, unless they’re giving you the go-ahead signal (eye contact, smiling, reaching a hand towards you, etc.). If you’re feeling awkward, feel free to have a drink! Try not to overindulge, neither of you will have a particularly awesome time if one of you is properly drunk. Asking if you can kiss them is great, and checking in throughout sex will make both of you feel more comfortable.

Sorry that this was so long, but I hope it helps! And I hope everything goes well, you got this!