My Day, Summer 2007
Bachelor parties used to be basic drinkfests, with little imagination or effort involved in planning. Not anymore – today’s parties for the groom-to-be and his friends involve a far more classy approach. Think recreation. Think destination. And yes, think beer – only this time it’s the brewing that matters, rather than simply imbibing. Limited only by your imagination, a bachelor party involves some serious guy-time, just the ticket for a memorable bash with best buds.
What’s on Tap?
Love beer? Rachet up your learning about the brew. Dan Gore, owner of Gore Brewing, does just that with his one day brewing courses that teach the inns and outs of crafting the beverage of kings. The courses, held in your home or elsewhere, are for brewers of all levels. “I organize tastings tailored to your interests – German versus American beers, Belgium beers or seasonal selections,” says Gore, who supplies the glasses, beer and snack. Another option is to have Gore, who trained in Germany, organize a beer dinner at a restaurant, where he pairs the right beer with each aspect of the menu.
Cast a Line
There’s nothing like a fishing trip to foster male bonding with your groomsmen. Better yet … have someone else organize it! Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa schedules fishing charters for small and large groups. “We do a lot of bachelor parties, as well as bachelorette parties,” says trip organizer Fred Donovan. “We have about 30 boats, half of which can accommodate more than six people. You can book a six- or eight-hour trip, and we can provide food and drinks, too.” Don’t obsess about a license; all boats have a blanket coverage for guests. Best strategy: Book a month ahead for large groups. Best gameplan: After you try your hand at catching that striped bass or bluefish, kick back at the luxury resort.
Vegas, Baby!
Whatever your game of fancy, you’ll find it in Las Vegas. For the poshest experience, check out the ultra-swanky THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, one of the world’s most sublime hotels. Located on the South Strip, the ultra-modern, slots-free, all-suite resort features luxury accommodations with a slick masculine décor – each two-room suite has a 42-inch plasma television and other guy-friendly amenities.
On Top of the World
What: Fly Lounge DC
Where: 1802 Jefferson Place NW
Arrival/Departure: Party 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. weeknights and until 3 a.m Friday and Saturday
Why: Fly these friendly skies for the ultimate bachelor – or bachelorette – party. Hip innovative lounge features cutting edge beat in music, swanky drinks and presence. Aviation attitude includes uniformed “flight attendants” and 747-themed décor.
Boarding: Call 202-828-4433 or www.flyloungedc.com
Looking for more trip ideas?
Check out www.mancation.com, a Web site created in 2002 by a group of life-long friends to create a community of users who can interact and work with each other to help plan and share ideas on great “guy” trips.
WHERE TO GO
Gore Brewing, Parkville, MD
410-882-6065
www.gore-brewing.com
Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa, Chesapeake Beach, MD
1-800-233-2080 or 1-301-855-8450
www.chesapeakebeachhotelspa.com
THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, NV
877-632-7800
www.thehotelatmandalaybay.com