Drink Like A Local With These Alcoholic Beverages From Around The World

One of the greatest things about traveling is discovering new cultures. And what better way to immerse yourself in a foreign culture than by trying their local beverages? From beer to spirits, there are countless alcoholic drinks that are unique to certain regions and countries. Here are some of the best drinks to have if you want to drink like a local while traveling.

Tequila – Mexico

Tequila is undoubtedly Mexico’s signature alcoholic drink. Made from the blue agave plant, tequila is traditionally served as a shot with salt and lime. However, there are also many cocktails that incorporate this fiery spirit such as margaritas and Palomas.

Rakia – Balkans

Rakia is the national drink of many Balkan countries including Serbia, Bulgaria, and Croatia. It’s a strong fruit brandy with a high alcohol content that is typically served as a digestif after a meal. Locals often make their own rakia using their preferred fruits, but plum rakia is considered the most popular.

Pimm’s – United Kingdom

There’s nothing quite like a refreshing Pimm’s cup on a hot summer day in the UK. This fruity and herbal gin-based liqueur is mixed with lemonade and fresh fruit such as strawberries, cucumber, and mint. It’s a staple drink at tennis matches and garden parties.

Cachaça – Brazil

Cachaça is a sugarcane-based spirit that is the main ingredient in Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha. The drink is made by muddling lime and sugar, adding cachaça and ice, and shaken until blended. It’s similar to a daiquiri but with a unique earthy quality.

Sake – Japan

Sake, a Japanese rice wine, has been around for over 2,000 years. It’s made by fermenting rice with water and koji, a type of fungus, and has a light, delicate flavor with a slightly sweet taste. Sake is typically served warm, but chilled drinking is also popular, depending on the season and type of sake.

Vodka – Russia

Vodka is synonymous with Russia and has been around since the 14th century. Unlike other spirits, vodka is relatively taste-free and is typically consumed as a shot. It’s also a crucial ingredient in many classic cocktails such as the Moscow Mule and Bloody Mary.

Mojito – Cuba

When most people think of Cuba, the first drink that comes to mind is likely the mojito. This refreshing cocktail is made with white rum, muddled lime, sugar, mint leaves, and soda water. It’s a perfect drink for a hot day on the beach or while enjoying live music in Havana.

Ouzo – Greece

Ouzo is Greece’s national drink and is a licorice-flavored liquor that is usually served as an aperitif before a meal. It’s typically mixed with water, which causes it to turn cloudy white, and is traditionally accompanied by small appetizers such as olives, feta cheese, and grilled octopus.

No matter where your travels take you, trying the local alcoholic beverages is an excellent way to immerse yourself in a foreign culture. Pick your poison and drink like a local to experience the flavors and traditions of different countries.