"(which can be pricey, given that stag/hen parties today tend to be a whole weekend rather than just an evening out)."

Graham, that can be an understatement. A guy I worked with (UK) a few years ago had a Stag WEEK - in LAS VEGAS! Not only cost a bomb for flights/hotel/food/booze but, over the week, he lost a Grand (GBP, not USD!) in the Casinos!

I'd rather have spent all that dosh on my honeymoon, giving Mrs. Fenswoman a fantastic-er time. Or, even better, on a new guitar.