Words: Alex Woodhall
The stag-do has a pretty horrendous reputation, not entirely unwarranted either. The horror stories are plain to see on any Saturday night in any seaside town, the male side of the species at its utter worst. Yet, the stag-do is also a tradition worth keeping alive, and not necessarily one to turn your nose up at too quickly, unless, of course, it’s strippers and Jägerbombs in Clacton.
Whilst the average stag weekend may involve getting battered beyond comprehension, leaving somebody tied to a lamppost, nude, and actively encouraging the groom to ruin his relationship before he’s even tied the knot, there’s a far better way gentlemen. We’ve enlisted the experts at Red7 for sage suggestion on how to plan the stag-do fit for a gentleman…
But, before we kick on with where to head and what to do, some ground rules:
1 – What happens on stag, stays on stag.
2 – The groom doesn’t pay.
3 – Consider the group’s budget. If not everybody can afford to jet set, don’t.
4 – Don’t organise it for the night before the wedding. Obvious reasons, aside from the hangover.
5 – The groom should still be humiliated, but not to the point his betrothed gives back the ring.
Staying at home
Oxford
Red7 say:
“More than a posh hangout, the city of Spires for those who are in the know has great nightlife and a wealth of premium activities. Although Oxford is a more sophisticated destination for a stag weekend, the city is home to the infamous Bullingdon Club after all, so you can still expect some fun after dark.”
What to do:
Clay Pigeon Shooting – Don your tweed jacket and rub shoulders with fellow gentlemen armed with shotguns as you shoot clay pigeons using a 12 bore shotgun.
Hovercrafting – Float on air on a miniature hovercraft, experience the thrill of hovering above the ground as you test your skills James Bond style.
Comedy club – Get yourself into the right frame of mind with a visit to a top comedy club in Oxford where you will see fantastic circuit comedians to entertain you before you hit the bars and clubs.
Punting – On the River Cherwell during the summer months.
Edinburgh
“One of the oldest and most beautiful cities that the UK has to offer. Edinburgh has a classy reputation but it’s not all about the art and the culture, there’s a vibrant nightlife too. The Festival Fringe held in August really brings the city alive but Edinburgh has a lot to offer whatever time of the year.”
What to do:
Golf – Enjoy 18 holes of golf at Carrick Knowe Golf Course which is suitable for intermediate standards. This par 70, mature parkland golf course is set within the heart of the city. The course is designed to have returning 9 holes, and the 4,373 yards of course demands accuracy from the tee with punishing greens.
Archery – Carried out in the exhibition hall, guests can shoot from 5, 10 and 18 metres with the club’s recurve bows. This can be followed with some target shooting where you compete against others in your group.
Abroad
Budapest
(Source: Red7)
“Split into two halves across the River Danube, this is one city which offers the perfect balance of outdoor action and incredible nightlife. Taking in the culture and scenery by simply walking around this beautiful city before hitting the wealth of excellent eateries and bars makes Budapest one of the most exciting cities in Eastern Europe.”
What to do:
Gun range – With this extreme shooting package you get to test your shooting skills with a variety of guns in the safety of a controlled environment. The range is in an underground bunker and once there you’ll receive expert tuition on how to use the pistols, assault rifles and the infamous Kalashnikov. You’ll fire 70 shots altogether over the two-hour session.
Casino – Enjoy one of the many premium casinos in Budapest where you can try your luck at popular games such roulette or Black Jack.
4×4 off road adventure – The tour takes place in a hilly area called Gödöllöi dombs?g, 15km from Budapest. Combine the rigours of off road driving with a challenge among your group in 4×4’s. During the afternoon session, you will experience driving on a rough terrain route where the emphasis is more on skill than speed.
Barcelona
“Offering a wealth of culture, colour and numerous activities, the Catalonian capital deserves its great reputation. Glittering sands and cool bar side cafes make up one side of Barcelona whilst the other offers world famous architecture in the form of Gaudi’s Park Güell and the awe inspiring Sagrada FamiÍlia.”
What to do:
Canoeing – Take to the waters of the Costa Brava coast in a double kayak and also have the chance to snorkel around caves and cliffs taking in the beautiful scenery. A pro instructor will teach your group how to paddle properly so you can fully enjoy the activity.
Catamaran Cruise – You and your group will enjoy the stunning Barcelona coast with a glass of champagne in hand and the golden sun high above. An English speaking guide will provide details and information during your cruise while you enjoy a delicious Catalan barbecue and tasty tapas.
Spanish Cooking Experience – Start the evening with a visit to Boqueria Market where your guide will show you the different types of fresh ingredients that can be purchased to make the perfect tapas and paella. Next, a chef at a private cooking class will demonstrate how to prepare an authentic Spanish paella and several tapas dishes. You will participate in the cooking class and also learn how to make traditional sangria.
(Main image source: Bettmann/Corbis)
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