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  • Writer's pictureLaura Avital

Ask the bartender when you don't know what to order

When asked why they travel to distant destinations, many people say that they want to experience the food & drink of different cultures and locales.


A great tip I received from someone many years ago is - ask the bartender what the popular drink of the destination is. They are always happy to show off their knowledge and skills. And most will allow you to trade it in for something else if you don't like it.


If you do like it, remember to ask the bartender for the recipe so you can try them yourself at home!


So, here are 10 tasty drinks you can sample on your next adventure.


Or, choose your next adventure based on your drink of choice:

#1 Pisco Sour - Peru

You don’t have to be a local to know how refreshing a pisco sour is after a long day of hiking in Peru. There's even a national holiday! Whether it’s the first Saturday in February or not, enjoy this creamy sour cocktail when you travel to Peru. And if you like it, buy a bottle of pisco while you're there & try making it when you get home!


#2 Kir Royale - France

You’ll feel like a royal sipping on one of these between shops on Champs-Élysées. The Kir Royale is a twist on the typical Kir as it uses champagne instead of still white wine. Sometimes topped with a few raspberries, it’s the perfect way to recharge after walking all day in Paris.


#3 Guinness - Ireland (where else?)

There’s no place to drink a Guinness like the top of the Guinness Brewery itself! Called the Gravity Bar, visitors get 360-degree views of Dublin and a complimentary beer after touring the brewery.

Now THAT’S how I like to enjoy my Guinness.



#4 Red Wine

We all love our local winemakers, but let’s go global! Is Argentinian Malbec or Spanish Tempranillo more your style? How about Pinot Noir in New Zealand? Either way, you don’t have to be a sommelier to enjoy good red wine. We’ve got wineries lined up for relaxing getaways around the globe.


#5 Piña Colada - Puerto Rico

Piña Colada was created by a bartender in 1954 at the Caribe Hilton. Wouldn't you say that it's the best beachside cocktail? Try one of these creamy, cold, coconut cocktails while you’re sitting on a beach soaking up rays in Puerto Rico (or really, any beach, anywhere!)

#6 Mojito - Cuba

Ernest Hemingway's drink of choice - another beachside cocktail - the mojito! It’s limey, it’s minty, it’s incredibly refreshing! And on the warm nights in Cuba, a mojito might have to be your go-to beverage as you come off the beach and head into dinner. And yes, this one, too can be enjoyed on any beach anywhere.


#7 Mango Lassi - India

This one is non-alcoholic and can be made with any fruit. This yogurt drink is creamy, delicious, and a great palate cleanser. It's often referred to as the first smoothie! Mango Lassi is a favorite after-dinner drink in India. After all the fragrant Indian cuisine, it’s easy to understand why!


#8 Scotch - Scotland (duh!)

If you know scotch, you know good liquor. With so many distilleries to choose from in Scotland, you don’t have to visit just one. Brave enough to take on the Malt Whisky Trail in Scotland's Speyside? This cultural trail features 7 distilleries and 1 historical distillery. You'll definitely need a comfy bed to crash in!


#9 Dark & Stormy - Bermuda

Dark and stormy drinks, allowed... Dark and stormy weather, no thank you!

Don’t worry, Bermuda knows the rules.

This could be the best version of a mule. With dark rum, ginger beer, and lime garnish the Dark and Stormy is the unofficial drink of Bermuda. As if you needed any more convincing to visit this beautiful island!


#10 Egg Nog - everywhere in Europe

What is your favorite European holiday beverage? Tough choice between gluhwein and eggnog! Head to Europe next holiday season to test out both and get a taste of eggnog in the European Christmas markets. This drink is sure to warm you up after you walk through the chilly, light-filled streets.


Some of them have interesting histories - such as the mojito that was originally developed to ward off sickness! Did you know that the Bloody Mary was invented in NY and that Italy's Negroni was invented by an Italian general. Can you guess his name? (that's right - Negroni!)


In case you missed it, here's a link to my list of great authentic foods you can try on your next trip.


Don’t worry about trying to navigate alone. I know there is a lot to see and do (besides drinking)! I’ve got you covered! Call me or send me an email or just CLICK


Be sure to post any questions you might have below, and we'll get right back to you! And if you like this article, give us some love by clicking on the


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