The four high adrenaline team activities worth talking about

WE must think of increased heart rate, tingling sensation, being on the edge, adrenaline rush, lung bursting, exhilarating and breath taking if we want to get that fulfilling electrifying experience.

There’s a lot of movement required to push all those buttons.

Again, this comes with a health warning to the team leaders. Not that any of the activities are going to be a danger to life and limb. They are all suitably supervised and the proper gear and safety measures are paramount. But life in the slow lane may not ever be the same again.

As you lead your team onto one of these amazing gob smacking adventures and then expect them to put on a shirt and tie and be energized going forward, from just the chat at the water cooler or a game of pitch and putt, think again buddy.

As you rev up your team for the occasion and you drive the “thrill button” up several notches be prepared for an adrenaline hangover. You may achieve your goal in bonding and team building. But a day out with the people from the office will never be the same again. Talk to management first about increasing the recreational budget before you stick your feet into the wet cement.

Let’s start with the obstacle course. Get a serious one: don’t do short cuts or sissy stuff. You want a full military designed course that will leave your team sweaty and exhausted on completion.

Crawling through mud and under attack from the enemy; Razor wire curing the itch on your back, up and over the horizontal pole wall with the clock against you and your team and the opposing team breathing fire down your neck. Struggle to get up the vertical nets before climbing the hanging ropes. Then onto the zip wire that takes you right through the freezing river water. At what feels like a hundred miles an hour. The rubber tractor tyre obstacles will definitely put manners on the calf muscles before the sprint to the safety of the finishing line. If you and your team are not on your hands and knees gasping for air at that stage, and saying a few Hail Mary’s. Then you have turned up at the wrong venue. That’s one that will soften the cough of the whole team.

Parachute Jumping; correct, parachute jumping.

Be warned, if your team or any of them are scared of heights. This may not be your team building cup of tea. That said, once members exit the door of the aircraft and the rip cord opens the parachute, it’s just pure buzz. Silence as the plane vanishes out of sight and the manic sensation of the wind rushing past your face kicks in and you float gently downwards. The views as you drift on air currents. That only the eagles and skylarks get to experience will be forever locked in your memory bank.

This is toe curling stuff and reaches its crescendo as the soles of your boots line up to touch terra firma once again. As you connect with the earth and your team does likewise. You will attempt to gather in your chute as you get your bum off the grass. It is quite likely that you will hear your team shouting and whooping as they spill out their emotions.

As it’s hard for your team to beat that in terms of high octane activities. The number three on the list of four is a return jump from the same aircraft.

Last but not least is a bungee jump over the Water. Weather and location will play a vital part in this. Again, like the last activity, anyone without a head for heights or knowing that their arse has left its original body position and now appears to be stuck in their helmet as they descend at a frightening speed towards the water below only to be checked by the elastic bungee, should just go and have a cup of tea.

So, which of The four high adrenaline team activities worth talking about would you choose?

The post The four high adrenaline team activities worth talking about appeared first on BigPotatoes.

The top four adventure activities in Ireland

We go back here to “one man’s meat is another man’s poison”

“Different strokes for different folks”

Playing golf on an 18 hole golf course that takes several hours will be viewed by some as Nirvana. While someone else considers it “a good walk spoiled”

Generally speaking we are looking at high octane adventure activities and so in keeping with the philosophy of team building and team activities we will put the focus on exhilarating sports.

Karting

Top of the list for most teams has got to be Karting. Customised Karts and cleverly designed race tracks are two of the main ingredients for this spine tingling sport. There is of course much more to it than that and we will touch on all those factors as we progress. The Karts themselves are powered by small petrol engines. The more competent a driver you are the bigger the engine capacity of your vehicle. The aerodynamic design of the Kart means that the wheels are small and the body very close to the ground. This allows them to be driven at a maximum speed of sixty miles an hour.

Not frightening fast on a motorway, but fast enough to get the juices flowing on a specially designed race track. Tight corners, left and right hand bends and fast straight runs all add to the thrill of the race. Proper safety clothes and helmets are worn and drivers are advised on how to perform. After a practice lap your car is timed electronically by control staff that measure the time to do a lap. In team events groups can have their lap times added together and so work out the winners with the fastest lap times.

Dirt Buggies

On the same theme of driving it is worth looking at buggy driving on rough terrain. The buggies are specially designed metal cars with carefully adapted suspension, anti roll bars, seat belts and very robust bodies that allow the participants or teams race over undulating terrain. This could be sand dunes but more likely a disused quarry.

A large shallow pool, steep climbs and bumpy ground means that the drivers have to have full concentration at all times. It allows team organisers and their teams a chance to do what is forbidden on the public roads and go like the clappers. This activity is a must for the “living on the edge freak”

Kayaking

Getting away from self propelled is a must at some stage and what better way than Kayaking. There are lots of different locations in Ireland that are little gems for this activity. Two that jump off the page are Bantry bay and Killary Fjord. One on the beautiful south coast and close to the historic town of Bantry and the other in the rugged west of Ireland accessed through Connemara.

Different terrains and different experiences visually at least; However, the concept and kayak’s are pretty much the same as you slip into a one man “canoe” and propel and guide it with your paddle, a spoon in each end of the pole. Instructors are always on hand to guide participants and ensure that all on the water are never in any danger. The thrill is being so close to the water without actually being in it. Sea birds and fish in clear water are a joy to watch in this thrilling and silent sport.

Surfing

Surfing on the West of Ireland is another must for the outdoor freak and adrenaline junkie.  Anywhere from Dingle bay to Donegal is as challenging as it gets for the lovers of mighty waves and rolling surf. Any of the water activities web sites will have details of the best locations depending on the wind and weather. It’s not for the feint hearted but if it’s thrill a minute stuff your team are after, this will push all the buttons.

So, which of The top four adventure activities in Ireland will you choose for your next team building event?

The post The top four adventure activities in Ireland appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Five reasons your rugby team needs a trip away

It could easily be escape, escape, escape, escape and escape:

It all depends on multiple factors as we all know. Nothing is simple when it comes to life or taking a rugby trip away. The most important factor apart from the multiple factors is the good old fashioned break.

It also helps to rejuvenate and re build team bonding and team leadership. They are the critical factors but they may not necessarily be the prime motivator in the urge to take a trip away.

Destination

Let us consider first of all, a destination. Somewhere that is easily accessible from the Emerald Isle. Wales has got to be top of the list as it is the spiritual home of rugby. While the provincial teams may be hitting a rocky patch, the smaller clubs in the towns and valley’s are thriving. The Welsh are our Gaelic first cousins, so to speak and share our tastes and humour. They would also bite your hand off for a chance to compete against an Irish club team. Most of the rugby teams in this country would have contacts with their Welsh counterparts so setting up a challenge game with a lash of pints afterwards, hotels and transport would be just a formality. Failing that the local IRFU branch would be well capable of steering a club in the right direction. Now that the location has been suggested, let’s get back to the reasons for such a trip. Of course it will have a lot to do with team building, team bonding, team friendship and team development but there are other aspects as well.

Reasons for the Trip

One of the principle reasons, depending on the time of year could be team reward. The season is long and tough and if the team ends up doing well or even winning the division title, then what can be a better team reward than taking the squad to Wales for a game of rugby and a good old knee’s up. It certainly helps pay back for the long torturous hours pushing a scrumage machine around a muddy surface with fellow team mates sweating bricks and ignoring the lashing rain in mid winter.

This is what separates the men from the boys but it also shows the commitment to the team and team building. That type of team bonding and team closeness cannot be purchased off a shelf in a sports store. Most team members would just love and away trip like that to Wales. Both countries are well served by air and sea connections.

Team Rewards

Another reason for a trip away to Wales could just be a thank you for the team that did not set the world on fire but showed great team spirit and drove on hard during the miserable winter months when the option of being coerced in to watching one of the soaps on television from the comfort of the couch often had more appeal. These are the players that deserve that break away. They may not be world beaters but they are the life blood of any club. These are the future of any club. These are the real team players. The team leaders going forward;

Underage teams are not just the present, they are the future. The future players, the future senior teams and the future team leaders.  Team leaders in this context does not necessarily mean team rugby players but team leaders in society. Business team leaders, hospital team leaders and political team leaders.

What they learn from team playing will stand to them all through their lives and so arranging a trip to Wales for the underage group will help with their development.

Developing international friendships by taking teams abroad helps to build relationships with people that don’t live in the same parish as us. Also understand how they view life and how they see us in a way that we don’t see ourselves. It goes towards building international team relationships with ultimately bring peace to all.

The final reason, of our five reasons your rugby team needs a trip away. We touched at the top; Escape.

The post Five reasons your rugby team needs a trip away appeared first on BigPotatoes.

The top three reasons it’s so important to team build

Trying to solve problems or develop ideas is naturally built into all of us and while much of the time we try to work things out for ourselves by ourselves.

Very commendable of course but think of it slightly differently. How much more successful the outcome might be if the approach was shared, in other words a team effort. We will examine the main benefits of team building, team bonding, and sharing team experiences as we look at the top three reasons as to why it is so important to team build.

Was it not Edison who once said after he was criticised for making ten thousand false attempts in perfecting the light bulb, “It’s not that I made ten thousand mistakes, but found ten thousand ways that it won’t work”.

Perhaps if Mr. Edison had been part of a team or team building or had a team working around him. He may well have solved the problem much sooner.

The first of our top three team building benefits is achieving goals.

Life is full of challenges and while we can individually rise to any challenge the benefits and results of working together as a team and in particular as we team build will accelerate the end result and more than likely also enhance it. This is most obvious say in team sports. While an argument will be made that a team sport is exactly what it says, a team sport. It is possible to have a team of very gifted and accomplished sports people playing together as a team and not functioning properly. It’s called individualism, brilliant at executing a particular skill but not functioning in a team set up.

In order to achieve the target, the individuals need to bond, need to team build, need to understand all other players and the part that they play in making the team strong. Make the team a unit by team building. Team leadership is important in building this concept. External leadership by a team leader or head coach, but internal team leaders in different areas of the team set up. Team leadership is particularly important in the game of rugby, for instance. It is often noted by commentators that a team had great team leaders all over the pitch. Forwards, backs, defenders, attackers, line jumpers and in the pack. So in order to achieve their goals, team building is paramount for success.

Personal Skills Building

As part of team building we develop interpersonal skills and we learn from others as we share ideas. Team building is not a one way street. It’s two way traffic; as you learn from a team member on the strengths and views as they see things and at the same time you can teach them on the basis of your own experience. That is applicable to all team sports but it also applies to everyday life. How many of our greyer population never had the opportunity of attending a third level college. Yet the experiences that these people have had, as they say, in the University of Life; can have a huge effect impact in team building in the progression of life’s goals.

One of the unseen benefits of team building is the development of friendships and social interaction. Man, and woman for that matter were not meant to be alone or solitary. Just by nature alone we see the necessity for the procreation. So that the world has its guardians and team leaders as time moves on. Friendship and personal attractions are not just essential for team building but more importantly for the good of humanity.

So, when you’re planning your next team building event. Don’t forget The top three reasons it’s so important to team build.

The post The top three reasons it’s so important to team build appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Five different types of personalities on a team away trip

Look at a team, any team, any discipline and take a look at the personalities involved. This will apply to all the different types of sports. Team sports and sporting bodies are filled with “Chalk and Cheese” members. It’s life. If we were all the same we’d all be Volkswagens. So we decided to have a look at the five different types of personalities on a team away trip.

So catering for such a diverse range of personalities can be a challenge to any team leader. That becomes more acute when planning an away trip. Team members no matter how good they are at their particular sport. Can be odd bods that have to be handled in a particular way.

We are looking at five different types but in those five different types there could be another five and another five on top of that of personality differences. It is not the colour of the paint, it’s the quality of the paint that matters we could say.

Then of course there is an age profile of participating members or players. And while it is now politically incorrect to differentiate on the basis of age, older bucks seem to do things in a more measured way with more planning rather than getting a rush of blood and making an irrational decision on the spur of the moment. It is called Cute Hoorism. I suppose this could define one of the five different personalities. Generally people of a same age, especially members of a team will have more in common. Than with the younger lads with no “No boundary” sign stapled to the inside of their heads.

On the field of play, the blend of youth and maturity is invaluable in the strategy of playing and executing the game plan. One is again, a little slower, more measured and has to make instinctive decision in split seconds knowing that getting it wrong does not allow for time to recover and make corrections whereas the younger, fitter and more likely lighter team player can dive into a situation knowing that if he gets it wrong he has the legs to correct the mistake.

The second type of player is what would be called the horizontal player. So laid back he is nearly parallel to the ground. Don’t be surprised if he turns up at the airport on the outward journey with just a dirty pair of boots in a plastic shopping bag and no luggage case. Cash and ID will be shoved down his arse pocket and he will be depending on borrowing a pair of shorts and socks from a team member. And “borrowing” a towel from the hotel bathroom. These laid back, “couldn’t give a tinkers curse” guys generally would nearly need a tracking device attached to the back of their necks.

Make sure that all monies due from these guys are collected before the first departure gate. A huge contrasting gap then appears between these guys. And the guy who thinks he’s the greatest player since Adam was an infant. But in reality can’t kick a ball. They usually have two pairs of everything, including boots, one with long studs, and the other with short ones. Everything is well organised and the hair is always perfect. No messing, no fooling about and drinks modestly if not a tee totaler.

This player will have his ticket paid for well in advance and can be depended on to do any task except score a goal. That said an invaluable member of the team. Then there are the regular guys who just turn up, play football, pay their bills, have a few pints and enjoy the craic. Generally these team players make up the majority of any travelling team. Yeah, all different not like the Volkswagens.

The post Five different types of personalities on a team away trip appeared first on BigPotatoes.

The top three locations for a team getaway in Europe

When we look at the options for teams of footballers, rugby players, golfers, GAA players, both social and semi professional for locations in Europe as destinations for a team break, team bonding or just a team event away, the range is mighty. So, we put together the top three locations for a team getaway in Europe.

It’s a case of how long is a piece of string.

There are many factors in this equation that are worth considering and there are just as many more that are vital to the success of such an event.

The starting point for the team has to be the starting point. That may seem like an obvious statement but it infers the actual geographical point from where the team is based. As Dublin is one of the busiest airports in Europe, the range and choice of destinations for a group getaway are multiple, as against say, Cork, Shannon, Kerry, Knock or Belfast. So decisions must be made first about the exit point from Ireland and as importantly, the entrance point and the subsequent road journey back to the starting point. This is important as an away event for a team, while it is meant to refresh and recharge it can sometimes let guys wrecked after burning the candle at both ends and in the middle. Therefore, facing a long car journey back home for a team may not be the smartest trick in the book.

It is also important to note that teams travelling for a getaway break like to get a football match included in the itinerary. For that reason we will stick with the three best destinations in the UK. Flight access is good from all locations and distances home should not be a major concern.

London

Top of the list has got to be London. How many teams or team builders would turn down the opportunity of visiting one of the most iconic capitals in Europe? Secondly, there are about six premier league teams with their home grounds in London. Add in the London based championship teams and the menu for football entertainment gets huge, enough to satisfy ninety nine per cent of the group.  The range of diverse activities, sightseeing tours, museums, art galleries, hop on hop off city tours, trips down the Thames, restaurants, bars, night life is on a massive scale. Planning is important before departing so that the team is kept together.

Make a team list and get input from all team members. Spread the planning among the group of players. This will help with team building. First on the list, and this applies to all three destinations is the booking of flights.

Manchester

Second is booking and confirming accommodation. Making sure that all team members are committed by paying up front is critical, as cancelations at the last minute can have a major impact on finances and group tensions and group morale. Decide on the game that people would prefer to see and go through the proper channels to secure the tickets. These are indicators for all three destinations.

The second destination is probably Manchester as a huge amount of Irish support the reds. Liverpool could fall into this geographical area with two teams, Liverpool and Everton, both playing premier league football. Both cities are in the North West and are in close proximity to each other. This is an ideal location for a team break. With so many football enthusiasts in the area, it would only take a bit of planning to get a competitive friendly match against a local team before going on to the stadium.

Glasgow

The third option is Glasgow, home of Celtic. Celtic have magnificent stadium in a           vibrant city bursting with lots of attractions, hotels and restaurants. So you can be sure that any Irish team or group of players planning a weekend break would snap your hand off for this one.

Group planning, team bonding, team hotel booking, Team event in that order.

The post The top three locations for a team getaway in Europe appeared first on BigPotatoes.

The top destinations for a team get away in Ireland

Ireland is blessed to have so many options when it comes to sporting activities, team building events, team day out locations and cultural enhancing organizations at everyone’s disposal in a relatively small Island.

Our forty shades of green land on the west of Europe has gone from zero to 95 mph in record time. Facilities are modern and state of the art, event locations are properly managed and the range and diversity of events is varied and wide.

The modern office team and team builders are prepared to pay good money for service with quality. Team building, team bonding and getting employees out of the office environment for an exciting bonding, relaxing and stimulating  events all works well with team builders and also for football teams and sports people looking for an exciting well structured break.

Team getaways are so good not just for the moral of the team but for bonding, and mental well-being.

Number one on our list of top destinations for team breaks is Cork City and the surrounds.

Cork

Cork is Ireland’s third largest city and as Cork people would say, the real capital, boy. Like all the major cities in Ireland it is on the coast so a diverse range of activities in both marine and land based activities is available for teams organising a getaway. Cork is easily accessible by road from all major centers, has an international airport and a major rail network hub.

For the marine enthusiast, a choice of sailing, sea fishing, water skiing or just messing about on the river is on the Cork menu. For groups more interested in land based team building activities the range is wide. Sports groups love a challenge, so why not go Karting and get the adrenaline rush. Groups might like indoor bowling or even hop on hop off tours. A visit to the English market is a must for first time visitors to Cork. Cork has a fine range of quality hotel and a large amount of B&B’s. The city center is bursting with a diverse collection of amazing restaurants, bars and music establishments. So it’s just right for a team’s break away or team building.

Belfast

Belfast is another great City for a break visit. As we have pointed out before, teams, whether taking a break or team building like to get involved in activities. Belfast has some fantastic locations where teams can hone their footballing skills, be it rugby, soccer or Gaelic. Visit any of the sports recreation grounds and enjoy a 5 a side game of football, archery, ten pin bowling or paintballing. A walk with your team around Belfast city centre is a must as it a visit to the Titanic centre. Belfast is easily accessible from all major towns and cities in Ireland and is also served by an international airport.

Athlone

Athlone can be put third on this particular team break away list. It is bang in the middle of Ireland and situated on the banks of the river Shannon. Bursting with beautiful buildings, pubs and gastro outlets the team will find plenty on offer in this beautiful town. There are the standard events that teams on a break like to do like playing golf, horse riding swimming or bike riding but the main attraction has to be the boat trip up the Shannon or white water rafting.

Waterford

Let’s not forget Waterford in the sunny south east as a team break destination. Marvelous state of the art sports facilities, hotels, restaurants and the wonderful green way walk or cycle track out to Dungarvan.

So, which of the The top destinations for a team get away in Ireland will you choose?

The post The top destinations for a team get away in Ireland appeared first on BigPotatoes.

A day out in Galway for your team:

We spoke in an earlier piece about Ireland having four sides. Galway is on the rugged raw western seaboard and a superb location for team building events. Here’s just a few reason why you should have a day out in Galway for your team.

Nothing will rock your team day out like an excursion to Galway.

It is important before you start, that your team understands a little about Galway.

It has a rich history that will excite ninety nine percent of any team especially a group that’s embarking on either team building, a team event or just a team day out.

Galway, known as the City of the Tribes is the western capital of Connemara. The tribes consisted of fourteen families. They dominated the commercial, business and social events from the mid thirteenth century till the end of the nineteenth century.  Galway is now on the route of the wild Atlantic way.

There are some wonderful options for your team as you fix on the team building and team events available in Galway.

If your team wants a refreshing brisk walk with marvelous sea views and bracing air. Then take your team for a saunter along the promenade in Salthill. Rolling crashing Atlantic waves venting their might against the shore will stimulate all members of the team. It will also give your team an opportunity to chat and inter act with each other while they soak up the bracing outdoor air.

If the team’s preference is team bonding and team building by engaging in something more robust, then here are a few options. First on the list is a venue called Pure Skill. This will challenge all members of the team as it gives team members a chance to exercise their skill set at a variety of different sports.

Team Building Activities

This is an indoor facility, divided by nets. Skill tests for your team members include soccer scoring and hurling skills. These will test any non national team member who has never picked up a Hurley before in their life. The rest of the team will get a great kick at watching a total novice try to strike a sliothar between Gaelic goal posts. Team members can also enjoy striking a cricked ball travelling at about fifty five miles per hour. All activities are supervised and so that team members are not in any danger.

The second option is ten pin bowling. This is a favourite team event. Teams can be selected and compete against each other while accumulating points. Each team should have a balance of strong and novice team members. So that the team competition is fair and balanced. Ten pin bowling in Galway is close to the city centre.

A third option is footgolf. Yes, it is what it says on the tin. Instead of using golf clubs and small balls, players use soccer balls and their feet. It’s great fun and will make a great change for a team day out. As in all sports, members on a team day out are divided into teams and the teams compete against each other as in real golf.

A fourth option and always a winner on a team day out is Go Karting. Galway has a fantastic track where all team members can show off their driving skills as they whizz around the track.

Another unique team event is the great escape rooms. Your group can be divided up into teams. They are locked in one of three specially designed rooms and the object is for the team to use a series of puzzles to work out how to escape.

Another great team event is the Hawk Walk in Ashford castle.

For a team day out in Galway for your team team building, is as close to the top as you could find.

The post A day out in Galway for your team appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Scavenger hunts – the most fun you will have on a team day out

Scavenger hunts or as they were known in a previous existence, treasure hunts are a fantastic and funny way to do team building or just a fun work team day out.

It’s important to stress also that team building events are not necessarily confined to work colleagues but can work brilliantly for a group of friends or neighbours interested in team building, challenging themselves as they break into teams.

It can also involve birthday party teams or hen and stag party teams.

In today’s world, team building, among younger employees especially has shifted from a paper based team event to an electronic or digital based team event.

In practical terms, it is possible to combine both forms as event teams usually have a mix of ages.  There are a myriad of types of scavenger hunt ideas floating about. Bigpotatoes.ie is well positioned to guide your event team in the right direction.  Is this a good team building event? Will all the elements of a scavenger hunt make the team event a memorable team event day out?  Let’s put the benefits on the table and see how a team day out would work well for a mixed, multinational and culturally diverse team of people.

Of course we have to be cognizant of the fact that all teams are made up of different age bracket people.

Some people on the event team of a certain age may prefer to test themselves using the good old fashioned paper, pencil and local maps. Paper of course.

What is a Scavenger Hunt?

Practically all the scavenger hunt templates are based on working out a set of clues and getting to an end point. It’s definitely a team event as flying solo on this one would be a bore. The team can be of any size. But in a team building exercise it is better that a large group is broken into smaller teams. Teams by their nature are set to challenge each other. It brings out the competitive edge as teams strive to outdo each other.

Typically a team building scavenger hunt event will start off with a briefing. The itinerary will be carefully detailed so that all teams are on the same page. At this stage the large team is divided into smaller teams. Hand out, instructions, tasks and electronic tablets, in some instances will be distributed to the teams. Fun elements are these days introduced, such as funny photos of the team in unusual positions.

Teams need to be careful on approaching strangers for directions. As sometimes wringers are selectively and strategically placed to give the team false information and disadvantage them in the team event point scoring at the end of the hunt. When the final point is reached and the teams converge, scores can be assessed and prize giving takes place. Rounding off the team building day with a prearranged dinner and refreshments is also a good idea. Videos and photos can be viewed and exchanged and all teams can share in the hilarity.

There are some more team building scavenger hunt ideas that are in vogue like disarming an imitation device in a so called nuclear power station. As we get deeper into the digital age more whacky ideas are possible. Dublin is a great place for team building treasure hunts with buckets of options. A team day out will hit the button for practically all teams.

Benefits of a Scavenger Hunt

The benefits for team building are terrific.

The teams must be creative. There is a sense of team inclusiveness. Setting challenges for your team in a fun environment and of course a chance for all teams to explore the city.

Finally, if you’re interested in a scavenger hunt as your team building event. Drop us a line today on info@bigpotatoes.ie.

The post Scavenger hunts – the most fun you will have on a team day out appeared first on BigPotatoes.

The top 5 things one should never do at a work event

Work events, especially when the company is providing the members of staff an opportunity to team build can be a great team day out. However, here are the top 5 things one should never do at a work event.

We must all be aware that there are boundaries that we must adhere to.

Just because it’s a casual team day out at the company’s expense doesn’t mean that team members of either sexes can behave in a manner that does them a disservice and upsets and puts strain on other team members.

There are lots and lots of ways that a team day out can be a great success. It can promote team inclusiveness; learn about people’s hobbies and how they live their lives outside the work environment and their work team.

Dress code

The first thing team members should really do is be appropriately dressed for the occasion. There is more to that that being modestly dressed. If the team members are meeting in a country or rural setting, team players should wear sensible clothes, even bring flat shoes or wellington boots if the day is going to be wet.

If the team is going to get involve in boating event or water sports put on proper gear and lots of it as it can be cold at sea even on warm days.

My advice for team building in the city and if it is early in the day, is to be dressed in a smart casual way. An evening event for the team should be done with a bit of glamour.

To recap on point one, fella’s should not turn up for the team event wearing track suit bottoms and a hoodie. Likewise, ladies should not wear skirts too short, boob tubes and dress like a slapper.

Stay Sober

The second point is to stay sober. Team building events are a way of letting members of the company relax and enjoy the day out. As a team member, do not stick your head into the trough and drink like you were a camel getting ready for a trip across the desert. Getting plastered on the free bar counter raises all sorts of problems. Team members are always watching. You are always being observed.

Don’t let the team down. When your back teeth are submerged, the words will slur and you will begin to talk through a different part of your anatomy. Ladies falling off their stilettos is a most undignified sight. Next casualty is the eyesight. You can’t identify anyone and your thought and speech filter gets switched off. As a team member you become an embarrassment and spoil the team day out for all the other team mates.

No Offensive Remarks

The third is making inappropriate remarks to a team colleague. This is offensive and upsetting and can lead to a strained relationship with fellow work colleagues in the days that follow. The dreaded drink can be an influencing factor in this case. All people have feelings so respect theirs. Once the words come out, like tooth paste, it’s impossible to get it back into the tube. Respect your team mates.

Emotional Feelings

The fourth is something that all team players must keep under control. Personal emotional feelings and perhaps fantasy designs on one of the team must be controlled. Just because it’s the team day out does not give any team member the right to make an inappropriate pass at another member of the team. Does booze play any part in this behavior, of course it does. The moral compass starts to move off true north and fix on anyone that looks attractive.

The Big One

Number five and final one, don’t racially abuse any team member at any time

The post The top 5 things one should never do at a work event appeared first on BigPotatoes.

It’s amazing really that in a world and at a time when engineers are desperately trying to perfect driverless cars. People absolutely love to get behind “The Wheel” and have a go. Nowhere is that more evident than on karting circuits. As a team building exercise it ranks close to the top. The buzz that’s generated among team participants when karting is proposed as a team building event is palpable.

What is it that gets team members so excited? After all it is just a low slung car on small tyres with an engine the equivalent to the size of one on a small motorbike.

Perhaps team members just love the idea of racing on a track and splitting into teams and competing against each other. Karting certainly gets the adrenaline rushing. Team competitors can travel at a top speed of about 60 miles per hour.

Competition is the common denominator in sporting occasions that involve team building. That so, but that on its own would not be one of the top reasons for kart loving as a team building event. It has to be taken in conjunction with other factors. Many of the team building Karting events are held at night under floodlights. This adds another level of excitement to the team event.  The mystique is further enhanced with the check-in, fitting of special racing drivers multicolored suits, the team getting fitted out with helmets and gloves and teams been selected from the main team building group.

Next, team competitors upload their individual details plus car number into computers. So that each individual team member will have his or her lap time monitored and recorded and printed out for comparison after the race. Each team will add their combined totals and those with the quickest times and lowest numbers will be the winners.

This of course generates more competition as individual team members and for that matter individual teams. They will be anxious to improve their performances and score better times.

The second reason and most important one why team building driving karts is so addictive is the actual race itself. As drivers are not scaring the daylights out of each other on the track or bend. They do compete against themselves as they try to up their lap speeds.

The third reason has got to be the noise of the machines. Add in the smell of fuel, the challenge on the corners and the instinctive built in challenge in all of us. But in particular in the team competitors to push as hard as possible and as close to the edge of danger as is humanly possible. That does get the adrenaline pumping.

As we have said, the cars are small and close to the ground so flipping them over is nearly impossible. The health and safety of team building group is paramount so track organisers keep a close monitoring eye on procedures. Travelling at 60 miles per hour so close to the road also adds to the excitement and adds to the joy of the sport.

The fourth reason why team building by karting is loved by team participants. It’s the fantasy illusion of driving a real racing machine, belting along the track, breaking at corners, speeding out of the bends and trying to get faster than the other team members while improving your performance on every lap.

The fifth reason has to be the interaction of the team members after the racing. The team bonding and the friendships that are being built up which ultimately helps improve performances in the work environment.

Photos, videos and time cards from the night out are great to have.

The post The top five reasons why we love karting for team building appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Why a day away from the office is always a good idea

“And on the seventh day the lord rested” was what we were taught in school so whether you believe or not, it was mentioned thousands of years ago. Even then, rest was seen as a necessity for the recovery of the body

We are human beings and not robots, well not at the moment anyway, so we do get tired. We do get stale and do need a break to recharge the batteries as they say.

More like recharging the body and the mind. Rest is an important component in our daily lives. In the modern world the pace of life is frantic and that is most illustrated in the nature of business in the commercial world. Take for instance that Usain Bolt, the fastest man alive can run 100 meters in less than ten seconds. In that same ten seconds 120 million transactions are done electronically between London and the USA. It’s hard to get one’s head around statistics like that. That is the pace of modern life and that does take a toll on people in offices generating these speeds and numbers.

Time lines are frantic split second demands. Office people are expected not to just  to keep pace but to be ahead of the curve all the time. Stress levels go up through the roof and burn out is common practice. Mental health issues are becoming a real worry in today’s world.

What’s the answer we ask ourselves?

Take time out. Get a day away from the office and suck in some peace and tranquility. Before you do that, take an hour out in peace and quiet. If possible and you can get to the sea shore, find a spot for a calm sit down. Shut your mind down. Chuck all the electronic devices into the bag and open your ears to the sounds around you. You’d be amazed at the beauty of small waves gently and softly kissing the beach as the tide ebbs. It’s a repetitive sound and nearly hypnotic but so soothing. Cock your head back and listen to the bird song close by and in the distance.

Listen

The thrilling sound of a swallow’s piercing call or the shrill screech of the swift as they climb and dive picking out flies while on the wing. Listen to the chirping of sparrows in the hedgerows and the warbling of the waders as they stroll along through the bubbles on the edge of the tide searching for their food. Crows nesting in the trees on the estuary will add a non musical tone to proceedings. All that sound can be interrupted by the coughing of a tractor engine laboring on a far off incline. Slowly your mind will drift and be in harmony with the wonder of nature surrounding and engulfing you.

Your thoughts will evaporate and you will forget that the world has moved into the fast lane. Here as you sit soaking up the glorious wonders around you, you will be transported into a bubble of peacefulness. Drop your head back and watch the clouds drift across the pale blue sky.

That was just the lunch break, an hour out of the office environment and light years away from the pressures of the rat race.

Now as you pick up you’re your bits and pieces and head back to the ball and chain by your desk, try and imagine how much benefit a whole absolutely huge day out of the office would benefit your body and mind.

Finally, if you’re planning an upcoming team event. Let us help and get in touch today on info@bigpotatoes.ie.

The post Why a day away from the office is always a good idea appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Afternoon tea: Team building with sandwiches

Team building is not always about doing mad, exciting, adrenaline pumping feats and ending up exhausted and sweaty. Team building can be about calm, bonding and peaceful activities. Let’s take an in-depth look at one of the calmest team bonding exercises that comes to mind and the many benefits attached to it. Organising an Afternoon tea team building event for your group:

It is important to list the benefits of the team day out before making the final decision. So that the whole team can see both the attraction and the benefits of the proposed team building event.

1. Location in geographical terms
2. Location within location
3. The nature of the event
4. Indoor or outdoor
5. Whether to prepare and serve the food by the team
6. Have a third party prepare and serve
7. Contrast the costs
8. Figure out the numbers
9. Organise the transport
10. Do an analysis of the benefits of the team building event

With longer warmer days during the months of May to August. It’s no coincidence that most team building events take place  at this time of year. The first item on our team building day out is Geographical location.

One of the most beautiful places to visit and top of the list has got to be Killarney in County Kerry. It is easily accessible from Cork, Waterford, Limerick and the west coast by road and from Dublin by road and rail. Mind you if the team building group is very flush or has a team building generous benefactor. There is the option of going by air to Farnfore Airport in Kerry and on to your selected venue by private bus.

Location

Number two is location within location. One of the things that you can always count on in Kerry is the range and quality of the hotels in Killarney. The magnificent three lakes, not to mention stunning mountains. Which, depending on the time of year, could be covered with beautiful purple rhododendrons that will create a most impressive backdrop for any team building afternoon tea event.

Number three is the nature of the event. It has been decided at this stage to do an afternoon tea team building event. That of course, by its very nature means that it is held earlier in the day than most other social events. The menu generally consists of a range of small triangular assorted sandwiches of the highest quality; scones served with strawberry jam and freshly whipped cream. Small pastries and perhaps profit rolls smothered with warm dark chocolate. The team will no doubt look for a choice of both tea and coffee and if the finances stretch, perhaps some fresh Irish grown strawberries, cream and a couple of bottles of chilled champagne. That would tick the box as a marvelous team building and bonding exercise for pretty much any group.

What could be better than the team enjoying afternoon tea on the lawn overlooking the lakes in any of the wonderful hotels?

That brings us nicely on to the next item on our team building agenda, self catering or organised catering. Well, on the lawn of a hotel means you will be duty bound to let the establishment take care of all arrangements. Besides as the menu is multi stranded, it would be easy for someone to forget the mustard.

Preparing a budget is very important as is sticking with it.

Do a head count of all team building members, make arrangements and when the dust or champagne or smoked salmon sandwiches has settled. Analyse the benefits of team building and team bonding by indulging in afternoon tea.

Finally, if you’re planning a team building event. Let us help and get in touch today on info@bigpotatoes.ie.

The post Afternoon tea: Team building with sandwiches appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Why a summer BBQ is always a team building winner

Is it any surprise really that a summer BBQ is top of the list when it comes to relaxed interaction, friendship and team building? Here’s why a summer BBQ is always a team building winner.

Numbers attending a BBQ are irrelevant as the atmosphere is always fun whether it’s a large crowd or a small group. It’s an ideal way of getting a group of people together to do some bonding and in particular, team building.

At first glance one might question how a casual fun occasion could promote team building?

Organising a BBQ really should not be the responsibility of just one person. There are so many different strands associated with such an event. It’s a perfect opportunity to do some serious team building. Different personalities and skill sets come to the fore from people least expected. Team building is not just falling into a set routine and playing follow the leader. It is about bringing out the wide range of different skills and attributes that individuals possess and blending them together so there is perfect harmony in the exercise.

Team  building is at its best when everyone involved is enjoying the occasion. That’s why a summer BBQ is always a team building winner. It’s not about the individual, it’s about the team. It’s about fun and enjoyment and all about working together to get the best outcome.

If we examine all the different strands associated with a BBQ we will see the many different facets that sort of speak, go into the melting pot.

Firstly, someone must organize a venue. As in proper team building a consensus is required. That particular task can be taken on board by someone who is a natural in art of loving outdoor spaces. Building a team around such knowledge is of great benefit to those on the team. The next is the sourcing of equipment, tables, chairs, BBQ, coals, firelighters, and down to the little things like a box of matches. Someone with a procurement background could do this with one hand tied behind their back. But, to make it a team building event, people without these skills should be attached to the group.

If it’s to be a real team building exercise, then careful consideration should be given to these details. With a venue sorted, equipment needed for the occasion organized, the group is on its way to making a BBQ a perfect team building exercise. Look, there is always someone that loves to cook. He or she may be reluctant to take a leading role in the BBQ team building extravaganza, but a little bit of coaxing and the building of a team of gourmet learners that love the sound of a sausage sizzling over hot coals is not impossible.

The team building BBQ Gig is now under way. The Culinary team is identified and ready to rock. Part of this team has got to be a section that organizes the breads, salads, sauces and all the little bits and bobs that go to making the outdoor dining tables a work of team building art. There is of course the little question of sorting out a bar. Chilled beers, wines, minerals and copious amounts of Ice. Let’s not forget the fruit and the cheese. Music, table and seating arrangements become part of this group’s task.

What makes a BBQ team building exercise so enjoyable is the interaction between all the different small groups as each is dependent on the other in terms of timing, quality and delivery of the end result.

A BBQ team building exercise is chatty, fun and always enjoyable.

The post Why a summer BBQ is always a team building winner appeared first on BigPotatoes.

5 reasons why Cork is the best location for team building

There is nowhere better than Cork as a location for team building. Ireland is like a square with four distinctive sides. Cork, is the bottom section or more correctly the southern part.

All sides are washed by the sea as we are a small island and as Cork has the second best natural harbor in the world. It’s an ideal location for team building activities involving marine and water sports.

Let’s take just five reasons why Cork is the best location for team building.

Cork is easily accessible by Road from all major Cities in Ireland, has an excellent rail network servicing the main centers of population. It has an International airport for groups coming from abroad using Cork as a team building venue.

In Cork Harbour, The Royal Cork Yacht Club, founded in 1720 is an ideal location to get into team sailing under supervision. Cobh, on the other side of Cork Harbour is another brilliant spot to do some water sports. Where team building will involve maneuvering sailing or motor vessels in the safety of the harbor and under the excellent control of seasoned mariners.

A trip to the historic Spike Island where military games are organized for teams competing against each other in an action packed couple of hours where teams will rely on each other to avoid all sorts of obstacles in the outdoor theatre. This is a fantastic team building and thought provoking experience that will require multitasking and leadership skills. Cobh is connected to Cork City by rail, has some excellent bars, restaurants and of course the famous titanic centre.

Cork County

Cork and the surrounding area is spoilt for choice when it comes to Golf. What better way to get your company’s staff into team building and competitive mode than whacking the small white ball over some of the most stunning scenic golf courses in the world. Top of the list here has got to be the Old head of Kinsale Golf Club. This magnificent course is surrounded by the wild Atlantic Ocean on three sides. Divide up your group into competitive teams and make team building one of the most memorable ever. The Town of Kinsale, only thirty kilometers from Cork city and easily accessible by public transport is regarded as the gourmet capital of Ireland. There are several top hotels to choose from.

Deep sea fishing is another wonderful way of team building. Splitting the group into teams and competing for the heaviest catch of the day. Boats and skilled operators are available in Crosshaven and Cobh.  Fishing gear is provided as are life jackets.

Cork City

In Cork City itself there are several indoor games arenas where team building in the form of competitive sport can be nurtured. What can be more fun and in out of the changeable weather than ten pin bowling. One of the best in the country is in the heart of the city and close to hotels, bars and restaurants on McCurtain Street. McCurtain Street is becoming the New Orleans of Cork and a great spot for team builders to wind down and enjoy the music, food and drink into the early hours as the organizers of the team building group analyse the performances of their charges from earlier in the day.

Outside Cork city is a karting track. Now this must be the daddy of team building.

Split the corporate group into different teams and do a “formula one” competition in these brilliant Go Karts. Points can be totaled and teams can be assessed on speed, ability and leadership. And it’s only a fifteen minute drive has the team building group back in the City.

So, there you have it. 5 reasons why Cork is the best location for team building. Finally, I also threw in few extra reasons why Cork is such a fantastic location for a team building event. Because it’s just that good.

The post 5 reasons why Cork is the best location for team building appeared first on BigPotatoes.

We all go to work, do our jobs, and go home. Regardless of how fulfilling our jobs are, it’s nice to have a little surprise here and there. Little surprises from the boss help people feel connected to their work environment and make it that much more enjoyable. Have a read of our 10 Ways To Surprise Your Team. The idea is to increase engagement and productivity.

Food Time

For no reason just bring in some food to share. Some Bagels, fruit baskets, cookies, or even pizza. These are always a big hit!

Home Time Surprise

Why not tell everyone they can leave 30 minutes early for the day as a random surprise. Surprisingly, most people will not actually leave because they have work they don’t want to leave behind. But it’s still a really nice gesture that they will appreciate!

Personal Touch

We all love the personal touch. This little surprise is something you can do in personally without involving the rest of the team. Every once in a while, come in a little early to leave a personal note, complimenting the work done or thanking them if an extra special effort was made on a recent project. They will love that you took time to leave this personal compliment.

Work Somewhere Else

Work somewhere else for the day! Remember that time your teacher took you outside to have class? It’s the same feeling! We strongly recommend having regular team idea sessions in a different environment than the office. If you have a team meeting coming up that’s normally in a boring conference room, then why not head to a local park and sit at a picnic table? Or head to a local coffee shop or hotel lobby.

Funny Board

Get a little bulletin board in the office and every morning allow an employee to put up a funny picture, cheeky tweet, or quote. Even put this on a rota system so people know when they have to put up a funny piece.

Branded Gear

Show employees you appreciate them with cool gear. Organise t-shirts, stickers, coffee mugs or water bottles with business logo stamped on. Use them as little thank you gifts for the staff… And if they use them outside the office you now have some free advertising!

Walk Time

Take everyone out for a walk. Grab your team and just walk around the block or the park. This gets everyone chatting and really relaxes people. Such a nice surprise also to just randomly take 30 minutes out of the day for a little team bonding.

Music

Is your office usually pretty quiet? Mix it up a little, bring in a speaker, turn on the radio and have some tunes on!

Team Lunch

Team lunches are a great way to create a different kind of conversation that wouldn’t happen in the office. Organise a team lunch and to get to know your employees on a different level and in a different setting. This team bonding lunch allows your team to connect more.

Visit From The Family

Do you know the spouses or any family members of your team? Why not invite them to stop by? In the office we talk about our family, kids and pets every day and even see the pictures. But has your spouse ever actually seen where you work or what you do? Take a minute and say hi to them in person. It’s always a nice break in the day when your spouse or co-worker’s spouse stops by with the kids. It really lifts the mood in the office.

We all know their are benefits to team building. We really encourage you to brighten your teams day by trying one of our 10 Ways To Surprise Your Team or all if you feel like it! 

As a manager it is vital to know little tricks that motivate your staff, raise moral, make work enjoyable, and all resulting in increased productivity.

These are just a few ideas, and we’re sure you can come up with more. Don’t hesitate to experiment and we would love to know how they work with your team.

If you like the idea of organising some team building for your group. Then contact us today and let our expert team look after you.

The post 10 Ways To Surprise Your Team appeared first on BigPotatoes.

With so many brilliant activities to choose from, what will you and the team decide for your team building session? Well fear not, we’re the experts in planning superb team building events across Ireland and these are our Top 3 Team Building Activities for 2019.

Gin Tea Party

A Gin Tea Party is always a huge hit with teams and groups and it will be no different for 2019. This is a brilliant activity for those looking for something unique. Guaranteed everyone in the office will love this team building activity. So what are you waiting for? Take your team building night to the next level with a Gin Tea Party!

Style class

Next up on our list is a Style Class.

Without a doubt this is an activity all the ladies will enjoy. Spend an afternoon feeling simply fabulous and full of fashion inspiration. Trust in the hands of a professional stylist as they go through all the latest styles and trends while they share all their trade secrets. The stylist will show you how to dress for your shape, pick colours that compliment your natural skin tone and even how to maximise what’s already in your wardrobe.

Paint a Nude

We are leaving the best till last! If you’re looking to organise a truly unique team bonding activity that will everyone talking about for years to come… Then Paint A Nude class is the way to go! Unleash your artistic and creative side with this brilliant fun team building activity.

So, there you have it! Our Top 3 Unique Team Building Activities for 2019! What will you choose?

If you’re interested in organising a brilliant team building event. Contact us today on info@bigpotatoes.ie. 

The post 3 Unique Team Building Activities for 2019 appeared first on BigPotatoes.

To be honest, there are plenty more reasons to let us look after the organisation of your team building activities. Plenty more than 5 anyway that is. But for today we have put together our Top 5 Reasons To Pick BigPotatoes.ie.

Party Planning Experts

When we say we are party planning experts! We mean it. For over 10 years we have been organising hen parties, stag parties and baby showers for all different sized groups and have heard every special request you can think of. We have helped ensure each group has had a truly great night or weekend away.

Save Money

We work with some of the best suppliers in the business all over Ireland and the UK. We have negotiated some fantastic discounts so that we can organise brilliant package deals for you and your work mates.

Customer Service

Our customer support agents are some of the friendliest people in the business. They are on hand to guide and inspire you to plan the best team bonding session for your group. They simply want you to make sure you have a great time.

Only The Best

We know only the best will do for your work team, and that’s the way it should be! We only work with the best suppliers and deal with the best activity centers across Ireland and the UK.

Best Locations

Wherever you want to have your team bonding session across Ireland, we have you covered. If you and the team even feel like hopping across the pond or further a field we can sort that to!

Here are just 5 reasons of 100’s to pick BigPotatoes.ie for your team building session. Contact our team today and let us guide you through organising a team bonding session or night out your staff won’t forget.

The post Top 5 Reasons To Pick BigPotatoes.ie appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Places to Go in Cork with your Dog

Anyone who knows me will know that I love animals and in particular my oversized and over energetic puppy Indie. I love her to bits and take her with me everywhere I possibly can. Including the gym. My brother mentioned to me before that if he saw me walking down the street with 10 dogs he really wouldn’t be shocked. Anyone who has a dog will understand the bond. And by the looks of it Cork does too. There is nothing better then getting out about with our four legged friends safe in the knowledge you can pop into a cafe if the heavens open up or just to relax with a coffee in a dog friendly space. So here are just a few places to Go in Cork with your Dog!

Before I begin there are plenty of places that allow dogs in the outdoor areas like the Rising Sons and Coqbull. But for this article I’m just going to focus on places that allow you and your pooch inside.

Bark & Bumble

We have to start with Cork’s first dedicated dog cafe. Located just down from the South Infirmary and across the road from St Johns College. Bark & Bumble is a doggy heaven. They have a doggy treat bakery, coffees, clothes and toys. They also have an enclosed place inside for the dogs to socialize. Oh don’t worry they do have human food there too. If you’re in Cork, make sure to pop in with your pooch.

Myo Cafe

Staying in Cork City and on the other side of the bridges is Myo Cafe on Pope’s Quay. A lovely little cafe not far from the Shandon Bells. They do delicious food, coffee and teas. Dogs are allowed inside but must be kept on a lead. They’re a lovely bunch inside and will be sure to dote of your dog.

Alchemy

We’re still in Cork City folks. This is not just a dog friendly cafe but one for the coffee enthusiasts among us. Eh me. Not only do the fine folks in Alchemy allow you to bring your dog inside they also serve up 3fe coffee. There food is also to die for. Definitely worth checking out.

St Lukes Wine Tavern

Now should you fancy a glass of vino while you happen to be in the company of your four legged best friend. Then take a stroll up to St Lukes Wine Tavern. They have a great selection of wine as well as tapas, sandwiches, teas and coffees.

Nine Market St

If you’re thinking of taking a drive and have the pup with you. Kinsale is the place for you as it has 2 spots on our list of places to Go in Cork with your Dog! The first is Nine Market st that serve fantastic food all day. So after you have walked the dog, taken in all of Kinsale and have worked up a hunger. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner here! Dogs must be kept on the lead but that’s no biggy.

Cosy Cafe

On Sunday we brunch! If you fancy some Sunday brunch or anytime of the week in Kinsale. Pop over to Cosy Cafe. They do a savage breakfast, lunch and brunch all day. As well as some delightful pastries. They also have a dedicated dog bar outside the cafe.

So, there you have it folks. Just a few Places to Go in Cork with your Dog this weekend. If you know of any other places. Please do let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

The post Places to Go in Cork with your Dog! appeared first on BigPotatoes.

6 Things to do in Cork this weekend!

I’m not sure about you but every week my better half asks ‘What will we do this weekend?’. Usually, I’ll suggest something that is immediately shot down before coming up a few more ideas that don’t involve sport. I thought to myself that surely I’m not the only one in this situation and that I’d share my 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend!

Jameson Distillery

We often don’t do tourist attractions that are on our own doorstep for some strange reason. Yet travel hundreds of miles to see others. Recently, I went to the magnificent Jameson Distillery in Midleton. You’ll get to enjoy a fantastic tour and learn all about the history of arguably Ireland’s finest whiskey. But you’ll also get a tour of the grounds, see how the whiskey is made. Enjoy a tasting of 3 different whiskeys and a drink in the bar also at the end. Well worth doing if you’re looking to do something this weekend folks! Maybe take the train is my advice!

The Crosshaven Walk

Now it all depends on what you want out of the weekend. But if you fancy enjoying the fresh air and going for stroll. Then I’d highly recommend the Crosshaven Walk. It starts in Carrigaline, and the car park is just about 30 seconds past the Carrigaline GAA club on the left. The walk runs along the water all the way to Crosshaven. It’s a beautiful scenic walk which is suitable for all levels of fitness. Once you get to Crosshaven I do like to treat myself with a pint in Cronins and a bag of chips for the walk back.

Trad Session in Sin é

If you have a bit of an urge for some proper traditional Irish music. Then pop over to Sin é on Coburg Street. It’s right by Patrick’s hill. A cosy little pub, with great pints and most weekends have a fantastic band or musician playing. It’s my place of choice actually for my Christmas Eve pints with the lads.

Try some O’Flynn’s Sausages

If you’re wandering the streets of Cork City and you feel a bit of a hunger come on. Pop along to now a Cork institution on Winthrop Street and try some O’Flynns Sausages. They do a fantastic variety folks and never fails to hit the spot. With the weather becoming a little chillier. It’s exactly what the doctor ordered to warm you up. You can sit outside to if you fancy and watch the hustle and bustle of the city on the weekend!

Blackrock Observatory

You could easily spend the day at The Blackrock Observatory to be honest. The observatory itself is a must for anyone who has an interest in space or stars. There is a lovely walk right beside the observatory should you fancy stretching your legs. And when you’ve worked up a hunger from your walk. They have one of Cork’s finest restaurants for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for something to do this weekend. You can’t go wrong here!

Fota Wildlife Park

Last on our list of 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend is a trip to the Fota Wildlife Park. If you have a love of animals, which I most certainly do, then you will love Fota Wildlife Park. You can see cheetahs, monkeys, giraffes, mercats and a whole host of other animals, reptiles and creepy crawlies. It’s only a short drive from the city and is hours of fun. They have a great cafe there too should you fancy a bite to eat also.

So, there you have it folks. 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend. So, will you be heading to any one of these attractions this weekend? Finally, if you have any suggestions, make sure to send them on to info@bigpotatoes.ie!

The post 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend! appeared first on BigPotatoes.

Cork Craft Beer – What’s your favourite?

As I write this article, the weekend is rolling in and I’m starting to work up a thirst. I love nothing more than after a long week at work to sit back on the couch with the dog and crack open a bottle of craft beer. Especially as the weather turns a bit grim on our beautiful county. I preferably go for a Cork craft beer. Not simply because I’m from Cork but also that we are spoiled with some of Ireland’s top craft breweries and they produce amazing beers, ales, stouts and ciders.

So, as I day dream of taking my first sip of my weekend beer. I thought I’d share some of my favourite Cork Craft beers!

Chieftain & Rebel Red – Franciscan Well Brewery

First up is Chieftain from the lads in the Franciscan Well Brewery. This is there answer to the growing popularity for IPA’s. It’s cloudy with a citrus aroma and is 5.5% abv. I love an IPA and this ticks all the boxes for me. It’s full of flavour and still quiet light. Meaning you’ll be back to the bar to other another one or two.

My favourite brew to come out of the Franciscan Well is their Rebel Red. A quiet exceptional Irish Red Ale I think they launched back in 1998 when I was only going into secondary school and didn’t even know what an ale was. It has hints of caramel, biscuit, hops and malt. It isn’t to gassy and so smooth to drink. The guys have it available around the city on tap, to share the love of course. But there is nothing better than popping down to the brewery itself on North Mall heading to Sunday’s well for a pint.

And if you can’t get in. They have them in cans now across the county.

Mi Daza – Rising Sons Brewery

Now, you’ll find me quiet often with a stout in hand folks. Murphy’s in most bars is a go to for me. But if I find myself in the Rising Sons for a match or for after work drinks. Then I get the lads to whack me on a pint of Mi Daza. It’s traditionally brewed to give a big rich roasted flavour. It’s thrice hopped with four malt and has hints of chocolate so I’ve read in the bar. One thing you’re sure to pick up is the taste of ‘more’ off it.

KPA Kinsale Pale Ale – Blacks Brewery

I’m not living far from Kinsale myself so when I pop into the town for a beer with the lads and a good chinwag over the state of our favourite team. I need a drink that’s strong enough but also able to relax. Following sports teams will break your heart.

The KPA Kinsale Pale Ale is jammed packed with citrus and tropical flavours that’s balanced with a malty sweetness. The tropical notes have to be inspired by being so close to the water I reckon. Either way this 5% abv beer is a tasty one lads. It’s clean crisp finish is what makes it a winner for me.

Howling Gale – 8 Degrees Brewing

At the other end of the county the guys in 8 Degrees Brewing have a fantastic IPA called Howling Gale. A great name for an Irish IPA to be fair. It has grapefruit, pine and biscuit notes lads. It’s medium body also means it has a smooth finish. This beer is great on any occasion and pairs really well with any munch you might be having.

Roaring Ruby – West Cork Brewing

Another fine Irish Red Ale makes my list in the form of Roaring Ruby by the guys in West Cork Brewing. It’s a bit darker than your average red ale but it has wonderful flavours. Caramel, toffee and a hint of coffee has me gasping for one at the thought of it now.  If you get your hands on one lads make sure to take the time to enjoy it fully.

Kerry Lane – Cotton Ball

First time I tried Kerry Lane from Cotton Ball I was at a wedding and the bride and groom had a keg of this fine pale ale on tap. And it was an open bar. Well lord save us did I develop a love for this drink. It’s full bodied guys, and has this mix of bitter and sweet notes going on. And the hops come through so well. I love a hoppy beer.

The main thing to know lads is this Cork craft beer is savage and if you ask for a pint of this. You simply not be disappointed.

Medium Dry Cider – Stonewell

I’m not a huge cider drinker. So to get me to have a cider, even on a hot summers day, is a task in itself. However, the Medium Dry Cider from Stonewell is just fantastic. It has a real freshness to it with hints of citrus too. It tastes so good. My advice is not to go too mad on the ice. The coldness masks the flavour.

So, there you have it lads. Just some of my favourite Cork Craft Beer selections. Is there any cork craft beer you should think I should be trying? Let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

The post Cork Craft Beer – What’s your favourite? appeared first on BigPotatoes.

A Sweet Treat in Cork City

I think at this stage it’s obvious that I have a certain love for Cork and it’s businesses. And as you’re all very aware I’m partial to the culinary delights of this great city for a work lunch, after work drinks and even a burger. However, one thing I have yet to touch on is where I head for a sweet treat. To go with yet another coffee I’ve purchased. So, here’s where to find a Sweet Treat in Cork City.

Sticky Fingers Cork

I know recently people went complete mental for donuts around Cork, Dublin, Ireland and the world. And that some people are now sick of them. I for one still can’t get enough of them. As I said it is a treat and I love nothing more to enjoy one with a coffee. So, if I’m passing Sticky Fingers on Emmet place I make sure to pop in for one…or two. They have some great hand made donut concoctions and I’ve yet to taste a donut in there I didn’t like. My personal favourite is the Snickers!

I also enjoy eating it outside the Opera House, take a minute or two and watch the people pass by. Before realizing I really should get my ass back to work! Do make sure you pop into the guys!

Cupcake Cottage

Not far from Anglesea Street, actually I may even be on it. Either way you’ll find the delicious Cupcake Cottage. You can’t miss it guys with it being right next to another top food house in Ramen. The team in Cupcake Cottage bake everything in house and they are just soooo good! The Red Velvet is by far my favourite and I’ll let you in on a little secret lads. A box of red velvet cupcakes has the power to get you out of the dog house! So, I say thank you Cupcake Cottage!

Heaven’s Cakes

Last on my list is Heaven’s Cakes in the English Market. Now I know there are tons of incredible traders in there. The butchers, fish mongers and olive hoarders have seen plenty of my business. I do love supporting local when and where I can. It only benefits us all and Cork at the end of the day.

But back to finding a sweet treat. I’ll make a B-Line lads to Heaven’s Cakes which is a traditional french patisserie with a modern twist. If you like the classic deserts then this where you should go. Pick up a few for the team back in the office and all enjoy a good chinwag over a cup of team. Team Building ideas don’t have to be to over complicated.

So there you have it folks. Just a few places to find a Sweet Treat in Cork City as you meander through this great city. Do you have a particular favourite?

The post A Sweet Treat in Cork City appeared first on BigPotatoes.

3 Best Burger Places in Cork City

I recently published an article on my 3 top lunch picks for a work lunch in Cork city. As I mentioned in that article I love my food and if I can combine enjoying some of Cork’s best food with a work meeting. I’m rocking! So as I was strolling through the city today coming up to lunch time. My nostrils caught the sent of burgers cooking. It inspired me to gather my 3 Best Burger Places in Cork City!

This article should really have come with a warning not to read on an empty stomach coming up to lunch!

Son of a Bun

Just around the corner from the office here is Son of a Bun. Every lunch time I have the eternal struggle between the ‘Treat yo self‘ side of me and the ‘You brought lunch, it’s healthier and you’re on a diet for a wedding‘ side of me. Any time I go in there I indulge. Simply put, I get a juicy burger off the menu. Usually the S.O.B and make it double. Get fries, mac & cheese and if I’m fragile after the weekend a shake.

After you’ve satisfied your hunger it may be very difficult to have a constructive meeting. But, as Father Stack said in Father Ted. “I had my fun and that’s all that matters”

Bunsen

Located on French Church street in the heart of the city centre is Bunsen. And after you’ve tried one of their burgers it will have a special place in your heart. Trust me on that. It’s the “Simple things in life” they say. Bunsen’s menu is simple but my good god the burgers are divine. They don’t mess about with anything fancy. They just serve up a great burger or cheeseburger, fries and a drink. Also they only have a handful of toppings to choose from.

I suspect the reason for this is to make sure you don’t ruin you’re own burger before eating it. That you truly enjoy the burger for what it is! Once you bite into one. You’ll understand and you will need some sort of miracle to resurrect that work meeting you were planning on having after you ate.

West Cork Burger Company

Now, if you’re not already salivating at the thought of a burger. There is something wrong with you. I’m already planning when I’m off for a burger next. So, its off to Washington Street to the West Cork Burger Company. Anyone who has been, knows just how good a burger it is.

The patties are full of flavour and juicy. The toppings and sauces are next level and the sides are top drawer. There will be a few groans of delight as you bite in. It’s probably at this moment that you’ve completely forgotten you had something work related to discuss after eating. But it’s worth it.

I’m a huge believer that we are spoiled in Cork City with all the fantastic burger places we have. It’s fantastic to see businesses in Cork thriving and if they keep serving up burgers and food like they have. They’ll be thriving for years to come. And I may possibly have to take out a small loan to quiet literally feed my habit!

So guys these are what I think are the 3 Best Burger Places in Cork City! Do you agree? Or should I be adding another few to the list? Let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

The post 3 Best Burger Places in Cork City appeared first on BigPotatoes.

After Work Drinks in Cork City

The weekend is nearly here, well that’s what I keep tell myself. And like you I’m slowing counting down the minutes until it’s time to call it a week. One thing I love to do when possible is enjoy a drink after work in Cork City before popping home to relax for the night. Here are just a few of my suggestions for After Work Drinks in Cork City with you colleagues!

Electric

A brilliant after work drinks venue before the rush of the weekend arrives. Electric sits in a fantastic spot along the River Lee. It’s serves great drinks and cocktails. And when the sun is shining the place is a hive of activity as everyone enjoys a few drinks in the sun by the water and on the grass outside.

Sextant

I’ve put the Sextant on my list as I pass it on my way home from work. It’s not smack bang in the city centre but nevertheless it’s a great place to meet for some after work drinks. It’s cosy on a cold evening and open and airy on a warm evening with it’s outdoor space. The pints have a taste of more off them.

Soho

Another top city centre bar for an after work refreshment. Soho is my bar of choice if I’m looking to enjoy a beer and catch a match also. The big screen means wherever you are in the bar you’ll see all the action.

Mutton Lane

If you’re looking for a bar that’s tucked away from the evening rush then Mutton Lane is for you. It’s down a narrow street, of Patrick’s street and pours a fantastic pint. They also have a few craft beers on tap should you fancy changing it up. I do drink more than just Murphy’s.

Rising Sons

Lastly on my list of places for After Work Drinks in Cork City is the Rising Sons on Cornmarket Street. It serves up its own fantastic beer which is brewed in house. Also they’ll have any big match on the screen and have a Foosball table to take on a work colleague. When you’ve worked up an appetite they have a wonderful selection of pizzas too.

So there you have it folks. Just a few of my suggestions for some After Work Drinks in Cork City! Is there any places you enjoy a quiet one after work you’d like to share? Drop us an email on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

The post After Work Drinks in Cork City appeared first on BigPotatoes.