Group Friendly Pubs in Tralee

The Oyster Tavern in Tralee isn't just another seafood spot along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way - it's that rare gem where the locals actually outnumber the tourists, and there's a very good reason for that. Nestled in the heart of Tralee, County Kerry, this beloved institution has been serving up some of the freshest catches this side of the Kingdom for longer than most can remember, though you wouldn't know it from the contemporary buzz that fills the place nearly every night. Let's get one thing straight - if you're expecting just another pub with a few seafood dishes thrown on the menu, you're in for a delightful surprise. The Oyster Tavern Tralee has somehow managed to perfect that elusive balance between upscale dining and comfortable pub atmosphere. It's the kind of place where you might spot someone in a business suit sitting next to a family fresh from a day at the beach, and somehow, it all just works. The moment you step through the door, you're enveloped by that distinctive maritime-meets-modern-Ireland aroma. The salty sweetness of fresh seafood mingles with the warm, toasty scents wafting from the kitchen, while the gentle hum of conversation and occasional burst of laughter creates the soundtrack to what's bound to be a memorable meal. The decor strikes that perfect note between traditional pub coziness and contemporary restaurant styling - think warm wood panels meeting sleek lighting fixtures, with local maritime artifacts that actually look like they belong there rather than being stuck on as an afterthought. Speaking of the food - oh, the food. Their oysters (because how could you not try them?) come served on beds of ice with just the right accompaniments to let their briny brilliance shine through. But here's a local tip: while the natural oysters are fantastic, the grilled varieties with their house-made toppings have converted many an oyster skeptic. The seafood platters are generous enough to make you wonder if they've got a direct line to Poseidon himself, while the steaks (yes, they do excellent turf too) are cooked with the kind of precision that makes you suspect the chef might have a previous life as a scientist. The drink selection deserves its own paragraph, really. The bar staff have crafted a wine list that pairs perfectly with seafood without breaking the bank, and their Guinness pour would make Arthur himself proud. They've even got a selection of local craft beers that rotate seasonally, though they keep the favorites on tap year-round. The cocktail menu is surprisingly sophisticated for a tavern, with their seafood-friendly martini variations deserving special mention. What sets The Oyster Tavern apart from other Tralee establishments is their attention to the little details. The bread basket arrives warm, with Irish butter at the perfect spreading temperature (a small thing, but you know it matters). The staff seem to have mastered the art of appearing exactly when you need them and vanishing when you don't. They're knowledgeable without being pretentious, friendly without hovering, and they'll steer you right whether you're a seafood novice or a certified fish fanatic. Time your visit right, and you might catch one of their live music sessions - traditional Irish music that somehow manages to enhance rather than overwhelm the dining experience. The outdoor seating area, while weather-dependent (this is Ireland, after all), offers a lovely spot for a summer evening meal or a Sunday brunch when the sun decides to make an appearance. Price-wise, it sits comfortably in the middle range for what you get - not cheap pub grub prices, but certainly not fine-dining wallet-shock either. The portion sizes are generous enough that you won't leave hungry, and the quality justifies every euro spent. They offer early bird specials that the locals swear by, and the Sunday lunch menu is particularly good value. Look, here's the bottom line: The Oyster Tavern Tralee isn't trying to reinvent the wheel - it's just making sure that wheel is perfectly balanced, well-oiled, and rolling along exactly as it should. Whether you're a visitor to Kerry or a local looking for your new regular spot, do yourself a favor and book a table (yes, booking is recommended, especially on weekends). Order the oysters, trust your server's recommendations, and settle in for what might just be the most satisfying meal in Tralee. Just don't blame me when you find yourself planning your next visit before you've even finished your dessert.

Ah yes, Benners Hotel Tralee - another historic Irish establishment promising that elusive blend of charm and comfort in County Kerry's capital. Like many who've darkened its doors before me, I approached with the weary skepticism that comes from one too many disappointing stays in "characterful" provincial hotels. Situated in the heart of Tralee, where the Kingdom's administrative pulse supposedly beats, Benners Hotel stands as a testament to... well, something. Perhaps the enduring Irish ability to maintain establishments that somehow remain both dated and endearing, like that uncle who still wears 1980s sweaters but tells the best stories at family gatherings. The first surprise comes at check-in, where the staff display an authenticity that's increasingly rare in this age of corporate-mandated cheerfulness. They're genuinely helpful without the artificial sparkle that makes one's teeth hurt. It's refreshingly real, much like Tralee itself - a town that's never tried to be anything other than what it is. The rooms, I must admit through gritted teeth, are cleaner than expected. Yes, they're showing their age like the rest of us, but there's something oddly comforting about the slightly worn elegance. The beds - well, let's just say they're firm enough to make you question your life choices, yet somehow I slept better than I have in places charging triple the price. Now, about that pub downstairs. In theory, having a bar beneath your hotel room sounds about as appealing as dental surgery without anesthetic. But here's where Benners Hotel Tralee pulls off its most impressive trick - managing to create an atmosphere that's lively without being insufferable. The locals mix with tourists in that peculiarly Irish way that makes everyone feel like they've just walked into their neighborhood pub. The food situation requires careful navigation. The evening pizzas, surprisingly, are good enough to make an Italian grandmother nod in reluctant approval. The breakfast, however, is where things get interesting. It's a bit like watching a theatrical performance where some actors forgot their lines - sometimes brilliant, sometimes bewildering. My advice? Hedge your bets and have a backup breakfast plan, just in case. The location, I hate to admit, is actually perfect. You're practically tripping over everything Tralee has to offer - shops, restaurants, the town park, and yes, even that nightclub that some reviewers mention with the enthusiasm of someone describing a root canal. But here's the thing - unless you're expecting monastic silence (in which case, why are you staying in a town center hotel?), the ambient buzz becomes part of the charm. What really sets Benners Hotel apart in Tralee is its stubborn refusal to become another soulless chain hotel. Yes, the coffee in the rooms is instant (the horror!), and you might have to adapt to a shower setup that requires the flexibility of a circus performer. But there's an authenticity here that's becoming increasingly rare in our homogenized hospitality world. For families, it's surprisingly accommodating, though I suspect this has more to do with the natural Irish inclination toward child-friendliness than any corporate policy. The common areas provide enough space for kids to be kids without turning the place into a playground, and the staff handle the inevitable chaos with the unflappable calm of seasoned professionals. Here's the thing about Benners Hotel Tralee - it's not perfect, but it's perfectly Irish. It's a place where the imperfections somehow add to rather than detract from the experience. Would I recommend it? *Deep sigh* Yes, actually, I would. Just come with realistic expectations and an appreciation for places that haven't been sanitized by international hotel standards. For those planning a visit to Tralee, you could do far worse than booking a room here. And trust me, I've done worse - much worse. Make your reservation, pack your sense of humor, and prepare to experience a slice of authentic Irish hospitality. Just maybe bring your own coffee if you're particular about these things. And who knows? Like me, you might find yourself reluctantly charmed by this imperfect gem in the heart of Kerry.

Let me tell you about the hidden gem that is J Turners Bar in Tralee - the kind of place where "just one drink" turns into the best story you'll tell all month. This isn't just another pub in Tralee's bustling scene; it's where memories are made and boring nights go to die. You know those places that feel like they were designed specifically for good times? That's J Turners Bar. From the moment you walk in, there's this electric mix of rustic charm and pure craic that hits you right in the feels. The wooden beams and weathered walls could tell a thousand tales, and you're about to add yours to the collection. Listen, if you're wondering where all the cool kids in Tralee end up on any given night, chances are they're holding court at J Turners. The live music here? ABSOLUTE FIRE. We're talking the kind of nights where you discover your new favorite band while sharing a round with people who walked in as strangers but leave as your new best friends. Picture this: It's a regular Thursday that's about to become anything but. You're perched at the bar, perfect pint in hand (because they know how to pour them proper here), when the band starts setting up. Next thing you know, you're part of an impromptu singing session with locals who have voices like angels and tourists who... well, they're enthusiastic! The atmosphere is what pub dreams are made of. Not too fancy, not too casual - just that perfect sweet spot where everyone feels like they belong. And the staff? They're basically your fun-loving aunts and uncles who actually want you to have a good time. Johnny and George behind the bar aren't just servers; they're masters of ceremony who remember your name AND your drink. Dog person? BRING YOUR FURRY FRIEND! J Turners Bar is one of those blessed establishments that understands the importance of puppy pats with your pints. There's nothing quite like watching someone's dog become the evening's mascot while their owner tells you their life story over a perfectly poured Guinness. The outdoor seating area is where summer dreams come true. Think lazy afternoon pints that somehow evolve into epic evening sessions. It's like having a friend with the perfect backyard, except this friend also has professional bartenders and an endless supply of good vibes. Sports fans, I've got news for you - watching the match here is better than being at the actual game. The atmosphere during big games is ELECTRIC. You haven't truly experienced victory until you've celebrated it with a pub full of passionate fans who treat every goal like it's the winner in a World Cup final. Let's talk drinks because this place knows how to do them RIGHT. From craft beers to cocktails that make you question why you ever ordered anything else, the selection is *chef's kiss*. And if you're a coffee person, they've got you covered during those earlier hours when you're trying to be a responsible adult. Pro tip: Get here early on live music nights - this place fills up faster than your group chat after someone suggests post-work drinks. The payment situation is beautifully modern (they take cards, contactless, whatever you're working with), so no awkward "sorry, cash only" moments when you're trying to keep the good times rolling. Here's the thing about J Turners Bar in Tralee - it's not just a pub, it's where your "I should probably head home" turns into "this is the best night ever!" Whether you're a local or just passing through Tralee, missing out on this place would be like skipping the best chapter of your favorite book. Don't be the person who has to hear about last night's legendary session at J Turners secondhand. Get yourself down to this Tralee institution and create some stories of your own. Trust me, your future self will thank you for making the call to check it out. Now, who's up for starting the next great night out?

Stop whatever you're doing right now because The Shanty Bar in Tralee is about to become your new favorite spot on planet Earth. This isn't just another Irish pub - it's basically a time machine disguised as the most authentic watering hole you've ever stumbled into, and it's serving up the kind of nights that turn into legendary stories. Let me tell you what makes The Shanty Bar Tralee absolutely unmissable: imagine walking in and feeling like you've discovered Ireland's best-kept secret. The wood chips crackling under your feet (yes, ACTUAL wood chips - how cool is that?!) and year-round Christmas decorations (because why limit joy to December?) create this perfectly cozy vibe that'll make you never want to leave. You know those places that feel like they were built specifically for making memories? THIS. IS. THAT. PLACE. Whether you're rolling in with your whole crew or meeting up for a casual pint, The Shanty has this magical way of turning ordinary evenings into "remember that night when..." stories. The live music here isn't just background noise - it's local musicians bringing their A-game, weaving traditional Irish tunes with stories that'll have you laughing, crying, or both. And speaking of stories! The regulars and staff at The Shanty Bar Tralee are basically walking encyclopedias of entertainment. One minute you're sipping your perfectly poured Guinness, the next you're deep in conversation with someone who's about to become your new favorite storyteller. Trust me, the characters you meet here are better than any Netflix series. Listen, the drinks here are so reasonably priced you'll think you've traveled back in time (spoiler alert: you kind of have). But it's not just about the wallet-friendly pints - it's about getting maximum craic for your cash. The Shanty masters the art of turning every euro into a memory worth way more. The outdoor seating area? Pure gold for those Irish summer evenings when the sun takes forever to set. Grab a spot outside, and watch as complete strangers become fast friends over shared stories and songs. Inside, every nook and cranny tells a tale - from the vintage décor to the perfectly worn-in bar stools that have probably heard more secrets than a confession booth. Here's some insider intel: The best nights at The Shanty Bar happen when you least expect them. Sure, you can (and should) make a reservation for your group, but some of the most epic evenings start with "just one quick drink" and end with you learning traditional Irish dance moves from locals at 1am. Pro tip: Get there early enough to snag one of the prime spots near the music area. The acoustics are perfect, and you'll have front-row seats to impromptu singing sessions that could break out at any moment. And yes, you WILL be invited to join in - resistance is futile! Speaking of joining in, The Shanty Bar Tralee isn't just in the heart of town - it's the heart of town. Those free street parking spots nearby? They're like gold dust, but totally worth hunting for. And since they take cards (though bringing cash never hurts), you've got zero excuses not to keep the good times rolling. Let's be real - Tralee has its share of pubs, but The Shanty isn't just another stop on the pub crawl. It's the place where pub crawls end because nobody wants to leave. It's where "I'll stay for one" becomes "I can't believe it's closing time already." It's where random Tuesday nights transform into core memories. So here's the deal: The Shanty Bar in Tralee is calling your name, and you really, really don't want to ignore it. Because while you're sitting there reading this, someone else is already living their best life in your future favorite pub, making friends with the locals, and creating stories they'll be telling for years. Don't be the person who has to hear about it secondhand - be the person who was there when it happened. The wood chips are waiting, the Christmas lights are twinkling, and your next great night out is just a decision away.

Looking for where the magic happens in Tralee? Fleming's Bar Scartaglen isn't just another pub - it's where ordinary nights transform into the stuff of legend. Trust me, this place has that perfect mix of authentic Irish charm and electric atmosphere that makes you text your friends at midnight saying "GET DOWN HERE NOW!" The moment you walk through Fleming's Bar Scartaglen's doors in Tralee, you know you've struck gold. There's something in the air here - maybe it's the sound of laughter mixing with traditional tunes, or the way complete strangers become best friends over a perfectly poured pint. This is where "just one drink" turns into "remember that amazing night at Fleming's?" Let me paint you a picture: You're sitting in the cozy outdoor seating area on a warm evening, the buzz of conversation around you, watching the Tralee world go by. Or maybe you're inside, where the atmosphere is pure electricity, especially when there's live music playing. The walls practically vibrate with decades of good times! SPEAKING OF MUSIC! When the bands get going here, it's absolutely next level. We're talking proper Irish sessions that make your soul dance - even if your feet aren't quite keeping up. The kind of nights where you find yourself arm-in-arm with strangers, belting out songs you didn't even know you knew. The staff here? Absolute legends. They're the type who remember your name and your drink after just one visit. Quick story - last time I was here, our server turned what could've been just another Friday night into an impromptu celebration. She even got the whole bar singing happy birthday to some random tourist. That tourist? Now comes to Tralee twice a year just to visit Fleming's! And let's talk about those drinks. Fleming's Bar Scartaglen knows their stuff. The Guinness? Perfection. The cocktails? *chef's kiss* They've got this wonderful sweet spot where the prices won't make your wallet cry, but the quality makes you feel like you're living large. It's that rare find where you get more than what you pay for. Groups? Oh my days, this is YOUR SPOT! The layout is genius - enough space to accommodate your whole crew but still cozy enough to feel intimate. Those big wooden tables in the corner? They've witnessed more friendship-forming moments than a summer camp. And if you're planning something special? The staff will bend over backward to make it memorable. Pro tip: Get here early on weekend nights. Fleming's Bar Scartaglen has become such a Tralee hotspot that "fashionably late" might mean watching the fun through the window! But even when it's packed (which is often), there's this mysterious way they make everyone fit just right. It's like Mary Poppins' bag, but for pubs! The location? Perfect. Right in the heart of Tralee, making it ideal for either starting or ending your night (though let's be honest, once you're here, you probably won't want to leave). Free parking nearby means no designated driver drama, and it's surrounded by enough late-night food options to satisfy those post-pint cravings. Family-friendly during the day, party central at night - Fleming's Bar Scartaglen does that transition smoother than a well-aged whiskey. Bring the kids for an early dinner, bring your mates for an unforgettable night out, bring a date to impress them with your excellent taste in venues. This place works for literally EVERY occasion. Listen, I could go on about Fleming's Bar all night (and I have), but here's the bottom line: Some places in Tralee you visit, and some places become your story. Fleming's is definitely the latter. So round up your crew, polish off your dancing shoes, and get yourself down here. Because right now, someone's having the time of their life at Fleming's Bar Scartaglen - and next time, it really should be you!

In the heart of Tralee, Roundy's Bar stands as a testament to the timeless art of Irish hospitality, where modern cocktail craft meets traditional pub warmth. The amber glow from its windows spills onto the street like liquid gold, drawing you into a space where time seems to slow and conversations deepen with each passing hour. The intimate dimensions of Roundy's Bar in Tralee prove that greatness often comes in small packages. Here, the constrained space works in your favor, creating an atmosphere where strangers become friends and whispered conversations blend with the gentle clink of glasses. The wooden bar, worn smooth by countless elbows and eager hands, anchors the room like the trunk of an ancient tree. As evening descends, the bar transforms into a theater of craft and care. Watch as skilled bartenders orchestrate their movements behind the counter, turning each cocktail preparation into a choreographed display of expertise. Their reputation for creating Tralee's finest espresso martinis isn't just talk – it's an art form performed nightly, with the precision of orchestral conductors and the creativity of jazz musicians. The cocktail menu reads like poetry, each drink telling its own story. But it's the execution that elevates Roundy's Bar above the ordinary. Pornstar martinis arrive adorned with fresh passion fruit, their sweet-tart balance perfectly calibrated. Classic cocktails are rendered with respect for tradition but touched by innovation, much like Tralee itself – a town that honors its heritage while embracing the new. Despite its modest footprint, the space feels intentionally designed for connection. The outdoor seating area offers a breath of fresh Irish air, while inside, the careful arrangement of spaces creates natural conversation pockets. Early evenings find locals unwinding after work, their daily stories mixing with the soft music that seems to rise from the very floorboards. The staff move through the space with practiced ease, reading the room like skilled actors who know every mark. They're quick with a recommendation or a bit of local wisdom, treating regulars and first-timers with equal measures of warmth. It's this human touch that transforms Roundy's from simply a bar in Tralee to a community cornerstone. As the night progresses, the energy shifts but never overwhelms. The crowd grows, creating that perfect pub atmosphere where voices rise and fall like waves, but conversations remain intimate. Getting here early isn't just a suggestion – it's a strategy for securing your spot in this beloved local institution. The payment system is thoroughly modern, accepting everything from tap cards to traditional cash, though the experience itself remains timeless. This isn't a place that trades on gimmicks or trends. Instead, Roundy's Bar has carved its niche in Tralee through consistency, quality, and an understanding that a great pub is more than the sum of its drinks menu. It's about creating moments that linger in memory long after the last sip has been savored. The bar's reputation, built on over a hundred glowing reviews, speaks to its role as more than just another spot for a drink in Tralee. It's become a landmark for both locals and visitors, a place where special occasions are celebrated and ordinary evenings become memorable through the simple alchemy of good drinks and better company. Step into Roundy's Bar in Tralee, where the next chapter of countless stories waits to be written. Whether you're seeking the perfect cocktail, a warm welcome, or simply a space to belong for an evening, you'll find it here, where every visit adds another layer to the rich patina of memories that coat these walls like invisible gold.

At Connie Foxes in Tralee, time seems to move differently, flowing like honey through the amber-lit spaces where generations of locals have gathered to share stories and break bread. The pub sits comfortably on its foundations, wearing its years with the easy confidence of an establishment that has seen countless conversations bloom and fade within its walls. Stepping through the door, you're enveloped by that distinctly Irish warmth that can't quite be replicated elsewhere. The woodwork glows with a patina that only comes from years of careful polishing and the press of countless elbows against the bar. At Connie Foxes, Tralee's everyday rhythms find their pulse in the gentle clinking of glasses and the low murmur of comfortable conversation. The space unfolds like a well-thumbed novel, each room revealing its own character. The main bar area serves as the heart of the establishment, where regulars claim their usual spots with the quiet authority of long habit. Dark wood panels climb the walls, their rich tones deepened by decades of stories absorbed into their grain. The lighting strikes that perfect balance - bright enough to read the menu, dim enough to feel like you're in on a secret. In the dining section, tables of various sizes accommodate both intimate dinners and larger gatherings, each setting arranged with unpretentious care. The space manages to feel both public and private simultaneously, with clever angles and strategic positioning creating pockets of sanctuary within the larger room. Here, families gather over Sunday meals, while business colleagues settle in for working lunches that often stretch longer than intended. The menu at Connie Foxes reads like a love letter to traditional pub fare, though it's not afraid to venture into more contemporary territory. Their steak sandwich has achieved something close to legendary status among locals, the meat tender and perfectly seasoned, served on bread that strikes the ideal balance between crisp and yielding. The kitchen shows particular pride in their toasted sandwiches, elevating this simple comfort food to an art form that keeps regulars coming back. For those seeking heartier fare, the menu extends to full dinner offerings, with vegetarian options that prove pub food needn't always center on meat. The bar service matches the kitchen's standards, with a thoughtfully curated selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. During lunch hours, the coffee service brings in a different crowd, transforming the space into an impromptu office for local professionals tapping away at laptops between meetings. Children are welcomed with their own menu options, and the staff seems to understand instinctively how to adjust their service style to accommodate family dining without compromising the adult atmosphere that evening patrons seek. It's this adaptability that speaks to the establishment's deep understanding of its community's needs. The payment process has been modernized without sacrificing the personal touch - contactless payments and credit cards are seamlessly accepted, though the transaction feels more like a friendly exchange than a business dealing. Whether you're settling up for a quick lunch or closing out an evening tab, there's never a sense of being rushed. Connie Foxes represents something increasingly rare in our modern world - a place that serves not just as a business but as a cornerstone of community life in Tralee. The take-out service, added in recent years, extends the pub's reach beyond its physical walls, though the soul of the place remains firmly rooted in the shared experience of being present in the space itself. As evening settles over Tralee, Connie Foxes takes on yet another personality, the lights dimming slightly, the atmosphere shifting like tide waters changing direction. It's an invitation to become part of the ongoing story of this place, to add your own chapter to the countless tales that have unfolded here. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular returning to your usual spot, there's always room for one more at Connie Foxes.

Looking for the beating heart of Tralee's social scene? Kirbys Brogue Inn isn't just another pub - it's where ordinary nights transform into "remember that time when..." stories. This legendary spot in downtown Tralee has mastered the art of bringing together everything you want in a night out: mouthwatering food, perfectly poured pints, live music that gets your feet tapping, and an atmosphere that makes you want to cancel all your other plans. Trust me, you haven't truly experienced Tralee until you've spent an evening at Kirbys Brogue Inn. It's that magical sweet spot where traditional Irish pub charm meets modern-day craic. Picture this: you walk in for "just one quick drink" and suddenly it's three hours later, you've made friends with half the bar, and you're all singing along to live music while sharing stories over what might be the best fish chowder in Ireland. Speaking of food - OH. MY. GOODNESS. The portions here are what food dreams are made of. We're talking proper, hearty Irish cuisine that'll have you taking photos for your food Instagram (if you can resist diving in long enough to snap a pic). Their salmon? *Chef's kiss* Perfection. And that goat cheese salad? It's not just a salad - it's an entire cheese board disguised as a healthy choice, complete with generous helpings of beetroot and enough nuts to make a squirrel jealous. But here's the real magic of Kirbys - it's basically a social chameleon. Lunch with the work crew? They've got you covered with quick service and daily specials that'll make your sad desk lunches cry. Date night? The ambient evening atmosphere (minus those few bright lights they really should dim) turns every table into the best seat in the house. Family dinner? The kids' menu and friendly staff make it a no-brainer. Game day? Get ready for the most electric atmosphere in Tralee when the Gaelic football is on! Let's talk about the bar situation because it's IMPORTANT. The pint-pulling skills here are next-level - we're talking perfectly settled Guinness that would make your grandad proud. Their cocktail game is strong too, and the wine list? Let's just say you won't be settling for "house red" when there are so many gorgeous options to choose from. Live music nights are when Kirbys Brogue Inn really shows off. The energy is infectious - even those who "don't dance" somehow find themselves tapping their feet and swaying along. It's like the whole place transforms into this perfect bubble of joy where everyone's your best friend and every song is your favorite. Got a group? Book ahead. Seriously. This place is popular for a reason, and nothing's worse than watching your hungry friends' faces drop when there's no table big enough. The good news is they're super accommodating for groups, and the staff has that magical ability to keep everyone's drinks full without hovering. Here's some insider intel: their busiest nights are when there's live music or big sports matches on, so plan accordingly. The sweet spot for dinner is right around 6:30 - early enough to grab a prime table but late enough to catch the evening atmosphere building. And if you're driving, there's paid parking nearby, but trust me - spring for a taxi and thank me later when you're free to sample everything the bar has to offer. Kirbys Brogue Inn sits right in the heart of Tralee, making it the perfect launching pad for a night out or the ideal final destination. Whether you're a local who somehow hasn't made this your second home yet, or a visitor looking to experience authentic Irish pub culture (without the tourist traps), you need to get yourself here. Like, now. Because somewhere in Kirbys Brogue Inn, there's a table with your name on it, a pint with your name on it, and a night that's about to become your new favorite story to tell. Don't say I didn't warn you about how addictive this place becomes!