As we circumvent the globe, we’re lucky to experience all it has to offer on many levels. A fun and lighthearted way we’re capturing and sharing our unique experiences is through the different airlines and barbershops, which is posted elsewhere. We’ll also share some of the ‘signs’ we’ve run across in an upcoming post. This section will ID a variety of the drinks, both adult and kid-friendly, that we enjoyed leading up to and during our trek.

(newest additions are in underlined)

Slurpee – Every July 11th, we are sure to stop by 7-11 (get it?) for free Slurpees. Although this picture was taken before our departure from NoVA, it plays a part in our trip. We were absolutely astounded to find so many 7-11 stores worldwide, many with an amazing selection of hot foods at the ready. Not sure they’re giving out Slurpees everywhere each July 11th though. 

National Bohemian Beer – “Natty Boh” has moved beyond the small brewery in Baltimore, changing owners and brewers over the years. It may have even gone the wayof a ‘tourist’ beer, but it still represents the East Coast in my book. Again, more of a pre-departure indulgence.

Grain Belt Nordeast – Grain Belt has grown into a new market and announced its presence with authority via its Nordeast brew. Next time you’re in the Midwest, check it out. I got to enjoy Grain Belt when we stopped in Minnesota.

Southern Tier IPA – Based on a solid recommendation, a nice IPA that I enjoyed in the Midwest. Comes out of New York.

Shave Ice – north shore Hawaii. A must when visiting our 50th state. Be sure to get it snow capped, which adds sweetened condensed milk over the top.

Bubble Tea – G & C very happy to find bubble tea in Korea. For those who aren’t familiar with bubble tea, think of gummy bear balls in a choice of a variety of fruity teas.

Myanmar Beer – enjoyed this light lager after we made it into Myanmar, on a tougher than normal travel day.

Egg Coffee – When milk was scarce in Vietnam, eggs were used to replace the cream for their coffee, in the form of a custard. Egg coffee is a very sweet, layered drink that is think and creamy. Think espresso as the bottom layer with light custard swirled on top. The cup is served in a bowl of warm water to help keep its consistency.

Omani coffee with dates – One embodiment of Omani hospitality is the serving of dates and coffee to guests. The coffee is lighter in taste, consistency, and color than other coffees. I understand that it’s considered rude not to take at least a third cup (they are very small). Once you’ve had your fill though, you shake the cup (like turning a door handle back and forth rapidly) signaling satisfaction.

Update begins here:

Chai, Turkey – a way of life. Omnipresent in Turkey. Not rushed. Served. Facilitates opportunity to connect, bond, commune, visit, and share. Presented in a saucer, normally sugar cubes (not some sort of manufactured sweetener derivative) are available in an accompanying side dish. An enjoyable life practice worthy of being replicated.

Guinness – When in Ireland, drink Guinness. Fine to enjoy other options also, but Guinness is a bedrock. However, I don’t drink Guinness outside of Ireland because I can tell the difference in taste from the exports, with some version of preservatives added, to the real deal on the Emerald Isle. For those who find themselves in Ireland yet are intimidated or skirmish to the thought of drinking a Guinness, I recommend getting over yourself and ordering a half pint. If for nothing else, then at least for health benefits. Drinking only a sip does not offer justice. One does not enjoy the intrigue of a book by only reading the introduction or forward or the magic of an album by only listening to the first track. The first sip is only an introduction. One needs to get into the body before appreciating and enjoying the complexities, surprises, and benefits of the treasure in hand. Guinness an allegory for life’s journey? I say yes. Drink up friends.

Liffe – Everyone should be so lucky as to remember the best drink they’ve ever had. I do and this was it so far. I enjoyed this Belgian beer while seated outside a cafe in a non-tourist part of Paris. With me were my five favorite people, including the most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on. It was a clear, crisp, spring evening, maybe a little cool for some. The sun was sinking in the west behind the shops and buildings. Our meal of sausages, cheese and breads was presented on two wooden planks. Served at the perfect temperature, the beer made the food taste better and conversely the food made the beer taste better. It had a rich flavor, but was not overpowering, thick, or too fragrant. I can’t even say that it was carbonated, but rather it offered just the right, limited, amount of effervescence for me. There was no flavored aftertaste, but a wonderful compliment. It was an integral part of my meal, not just my drink. Why write so much about a simple glass of beer? Because it was the best drink I’ve ever had.

Murphy’s – This was the first Murphy’s that I’ve ever drank. I’ve been missing out. Enjoyed it in Kenmare, Ireland.

Rostocker Pils – Rostock, GE – pleasantly surprised by this golden gem while seated, with my oldest daughter, outside on a a perfectly clear day. Light jacket weather – a little cool in the shade, a little warm in the sun. Approaching midsummer and being so far north, we were treated to ample overhead sunshine despite the late afternoon hour. Pedestrians, families, and visitors strolled the streets, visiting cafes, and seemingly enjoying the Sunday afternoon with one another – shops and stores were all closed. My tall glass of Rostocker complimented our time smoothly and cleanly, acting as another companion who enjoyed a carefree Sunday afternoon.  

Landsort Lager – Welcome to Sweden! During a short stop in the charming port city of Nynashamn, a glass of Landsort was the perfect companion to my open-faced sandwich of salmon on dark bread at the traditional restaurant Nynas Rokeri & Fiskhall. Tak! 

Viennese Coffee – an authentic delicacy enjoyed at the wonderfully iconic Cafe Tirolerhof in Vienna. We were efficiently served by a professional waiter, dressed in a black short coat. He was neither friendly nor rude, kept his distance, yet magically appeared instantly as we raised our eyes in search of him. Although the Tirolerhof is located inside the more touristy district, the clientele during our visit were locals. They read newspapers, chatted quietly, or smoked, in the adjacent room. If you’re lucky enough to visit Vienna, you must step back in time and enjoy the pleasure of a coffee at a traditional Viennese coffee house.