It was Thursday, 16:30 and it was
my turn. Yes, another milestone in my life, and although its importance is a
recent phenomenon, it is something that is becoming firmly entrenched as a
must-do before you embark upon a life of three day romantic weekends and family
holidays.
My stag-do was to take place in Krakow and I had a bucket-load of things to do at work (don't we all?) before leaving. The job was finally done, my week over, and I could fix my attention on what was going to be a long weekend.
I met with the entourage in Liverpool Street and we made our way to Krakow via the comforts that a Ryanair flight and its upright seats can bring.
Thursday night was supposed to be a quiet prelude to the proper start of proceedings on Friday. Boy was I mistaken. A quiet tour of the old city took us to Scandale Royale and a shot fest of chilli vodka at the bar.
Friday and the sun was
threatening to make its appearance. And what better way to come to our senses
with 2 strong coffees and Polish apple pie. After touring the town, we made our
way to Pod Baranem - a restaurant near the majestic Wawel castle which
overlooks the city which makes some of the best local food in town, including
dumplings, stuffed cabbage and Polish style game. We then hit the town for a
bar hop which ended in Baccarat with a few bottles of Belvedere and house
music.
Saturday was about the
adrenaline; any hangover was nullified by the madness of a paintball war in a
deserted warehouse in East Krakow. Of course, yours truly was on the winning
team - given his combat experience - claiming the lives of his opponents over
and over again….and again. After winding down, it was club night once more;
however not before a trip to the Jewish quarter Kazimierz for some more...
vodka shots and some fine local beer. Do go there if in Krakow if you are
looking for a more bohemian twist to your stay. The night ended in Burlusque,
which is a place I’d recommend for all I could remember of it. Vodka does not
do well for your memory!
We ended our stay on Sunday with
a trip to the Salt mines just outside the city. Do get a guide if you go - they
are worth parting your cash for. In two (one synthetic) word: jaw-dropping. A
whole town more than 100 metres underground with impressive carvings, ponds
underground and places of worship all made in stone!
Now you may have figured where I
am going with this: Thumbs up to Krakow and definitely a good choice for anyone
looking to organise a group event!
