Albania
Although the Republic of Albania was a previously undiscovered gem in the Mediterranean Sea, it has seen a lot of popularity over the past ten to fifteen years.
It's easy to see why the Albanian Riviera is so popular. The area boasts pristine beaches, unpolluted coves and lagoons as well as ancient castles and fortifications. There's also a vibrant nightlife scene. Albania's legal drinking age is just 18.
Albanians grow a lot grapes and their wine industry is slowly recovering from the Communist era. There are many wineries and vineyards that you can visit and taste a variety of world-class wines.
The raki is an Albanian liquor that can contain up to 45% alcohol per volume (ABV). Raki is made of grapes. Although it can be made commercially, it is more common to make this Albanian liquor at home or artisanally. The best raki is said to be from Orahovac, a town in western Albania. Every year in September there's a huge grape harvest festival.
The bad news is that, although Albania is a secular country with no official religions, its majority population is Muslim and many Muslims don't drink. Public alcohol consumption is uncool and public drinking is a crime.
Respect and restraint are required. Please limit your drinking to the appropriate places, such as bars, homes, beaches, restaurants, and bars. Their DUI/DWI laws, which allow for blood-alcohol content of 0.01%, are some of the most strict in Europe.
Comparatively, the BAC in most European countries is 0.05% and the BAC in the United States is generally 0.08%. Although Albania has a lower drinking age than the United States, their drinking standards are strict and high. Take care of yourself.
Austria
Billy Joel sang, "Vienna Waits for You" as the Piano Man. Austria is the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Arnold Schwarzenegger. You should go if you enjoy drinking but are a bit younger.
Austria's drinking age was confusing in the past due to different laws across different states. They have now standardised everything nationwide, making the difficult question "What is Austria's drinking age?" much simpler to answer.
Two things are required to make beer, wine, and cider: you must be 16
Austria is known for its wine, beer and ciders. Beer is a speciality: Only the Czechs consume more beer per capita that the Austrians. Austrian beer tastes similar to Czech and German beers. These beers are marzen (lagers), while ciders can either be made with apples or (better still) pears.
You can sample local wines at various wine bars (weinkeller). Our interns suggest a weisser spritzer ("white Splash"), which is a white wine and mineral water cocktail that's rapidly becoming a popular alternative for beer in a country where beer is so much more common. Austria is a wonderful place to visit if you are a 16-year-old or 17-year old world traveler.
Austria is known for its schnapps, which are fruit brandsy with up to 60% ABV. Tip: Don't mix beer with schnapps. If you have to consume both, it is best to drink the schnapps first, then the beer. You're welcome.
A young person can have a beer in Austria's public parks during the day, unlike Albania. To reduce the number of rowdy tourists, Vienna's Praterstern Square had to ban public consumption. Also, alcohol is prohibited aboard public transport.
Canada
Oh, Canada! America's northern neighbor. It is a vast country, with beautiful landscapes, sophisticated cities, and thriving cultures. It is where America's seniors go to get cheap prescription drugs and where America’s youth go to purchase good, cheap beer.
Why not?
In recent years, the Canadian dollar has suffered a significant beating. This has made your American dollars go further. You don't have to be 21 in order to purchase or consume alcohol.
Canada's legal drinking age can vary depending on where you live. It is a large country!
The legal age to buy and consume alcohol, beer, wine, and distilled beverages in most Canadian provinces is 19.
In Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec, however, the legal drinking age for minors is 18.
Quebec, on the eastern coast of Canada, is where you will find Montreal and Quebec City, the most European city in North America. You'll also find the best beer in Canada here. Quebec City hosts each year the Festibiere, while Montreal holds the Mondial de la Biere. Dieu du Ciel, Unibroue are two notable small breweries.
To see why beer is so important to Canadian culture, watch the classic film Strange Brew (1983), starring Bob & Doug MacKenzie.
International corporate conglomerates have taken over most of Canada's top brewers like Molson and Labatt, making Moosehead the largest Canadian-owned brewery. These large breweries mainly make pale pilsners that are similar to American beers such as Miller and Budweiser.
Be assured!
There are many brewpubs in Canada, which is why the Canadian microbrewery scene has taken off. You will find local beer wherever you travel in Canada: small-batch, artisanal, and craft-brewed malty goodness.
Canada isn't just about beer, it's also about rye whisky. Canada is home to some of the most well-known names in the industry, such as Canadian Club, Crown Royal and Seagrams. Shelter Point and Caribou Crossing are two other craft producers. You can save some money by bringing them home.
Due to recent disputes regarding international trade, treaties, and tariffs, Americans must now have a valid US passport in order to fly into Canada. Non-Americans will need a passport, a visa, or an Electronic Travel Authorization.
Americans can drive and even walk across the border at this point with a valid photo ID, such as an enhanced driver’s license. However, a passport is the best option. If you don't have one, get one now.
Colombia
The Republic of Colombia, located in the northernmost part of South America, borders both the Pacific Ocean (and the Caribbean Sea), is worth a visit. It's home to some of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, including highlands, deserts and grasslands. Since the days of the evil drug lords, the economy has been stable and security is much better.
Colombia's legal drinking age is 18. A few words of caution: Public consumption of alcohol in Colombia is strictly prohibited around schools and athletic centers. Interns advise against drinking in public places and against drinking alone at bars. Stay safe, and be close to your friends. Your ID (passport), should always be with you.
Colombia is well-known for its world-class coffee, which you may have already tried.
The most well-known alcoholic beverage in Colombia, Aguardiente is a fermented and distilled sugarcane liquor. Literally, it means "Fire Water". Aguardiente has a similar taste to rum but can be up to 60% ABV. It is best to drink it straight, not mixed. Aguardiente can be found throughout the Andean Region, with each country making it differently. It is sometimes flavored with anise in Colombia, which gives it a licorice flavor. You might enjoy it.
Finland
Finland's youth drink a lot. It is a problem that has become a national issue. It even has a word, Kalsarikanni which means "drinking alone at your home in your underwear."
They recently increased the minimum legal age for drinking in Finland from 18 to 20 in an effort to curb alcohol abuse. This is one of the highest legal drinking limits in Europe. The other countries that require drinkers to have at least 20-years-old are Norway, Iceland, and Sweden.
To purchase Finlandia vodka, or any other hard spirit, you must be at least 20 years of age in Finland. This is because Finlandia vodka has an ABV greater than 22%.
But! Only 18. is the legal drinking age for Finland's alcoholic beverages below 22% ABV.
Take into account that American beer is typically 4.5% and strong beer can be 7 to 10%. Wines are usually between 10 and 17%. Even Madeira, sherry and port can be fortified with wines ranging from 17 to 20%.
Finland's cloudberry liqueur, Lakka that you must try is right below the 21% limit. Below 22%, you can get really crazy! Please dress up and go out with friends to drink instead of drinking in your underwear.
If you do decide to go out, there is a big loophole. You can buy and consume hard spirits (over 22%) in Finland if you're at least 18 years old. Also, you can consume it in bars, clubs, pubs, and restaurants. When you're stocking up for the future, the whole rule of "must not be older than 20 years" applies only to liquor stores.
Alko, the Finnish government monopoly on liquor stores, is responsible for Finland's liquor industry. Alko stores must sell anything over 5.5% ABV. They close on Sundays and open early on Saturdays. If you don't need American-style light beers, you can find them in grocery stores. Plan your drinking habits in advance. Also, take your passport. You will be carded at Alko.
You can also pick up Koskenkorva Viina (38%) while you are in Alko. This is a very distilled, almost flavorless liquor that is similar to vodka. You can also get Salmiakki Koskenkorva. This is a premixed cocktail that combines Koskenkorva Viina and licorice candy with Turkish pepper. It will lighten your heart!
France
Why should someone visit France?
Paris is worth the trip for its cafes and bistros and the Eiffel Tower. But I wouldn't be remiss if we didn't mention Strasbourg, the official seat of European Parliament, in the south. It is close to Germany and Normandy. And of course, there are many lovely cities like Nice, Cannes, and Marseille.
It's enough to say, if France is not on your bucket list, it's time to go.
Fine wine is synonymous with France. Bordeaux. Burgundy. Champagne! Champagne! They also brew lots of beer in France, especially around Strasbourg. Schiltigheim in Strasbourg hosts an annual world-class beer festival in August.
France's legal drinking age is 18 years. This is the same as most European countries. This applies to beer, wine, and spirits.
France is known for its spirit world, including Cognac (which can be sipped straight), Grand Marnier, which is used to make B52s, Cointreau (an important ingredient in a top-shelf margarita), as well as Absinthe (a notorious, wormwood-, anise, and fennel-flavored alcoholic beverage).
France produces great rum because of its overseas territories like Martinique, in the Caribbean Sea.
Go to France and drink responsibly. It's France, so be cool and show some class.
Germany
The Federal Republic of Germany is Europe's largest country, and has many sights and activities to offer. You're sure to enjoy beer, and Germany is the perfect place for you. Germany is like France to wine.
Beer is an integral part of German national identity, just like Canada. (Watch the comedy Beerfest (2006) for more information).
Breweries can be visited and beer tastings offered. However, there are more than a thousand German breweries that produce over 5,000 brands. There are also microbreweries and brewpubs. It is also very popular to make your own beer at home. Beck's is the most popular beer brand in Germany. It's brewed in Bremen, northern Germany, and exported around the world.
Except for Beck's, the majority of German beer is produced in southern Germany in Bavaria. Munich is the Mecca.
The Valhalla of beer halls is Munich's legendary Hofbrauhaus. They are the most well-known beer hall in the world. They have been serving beer and food in the same place for more than five centuries. The Hofbrauhaus is a must-see. If it is too crowded or too touristy, there are many great beer gardens around.
All over Germany, beer festivals are held every summer and fall. Munich's annual Oktoberfest is the granddaddy. (By the by, Oktoberfest actually occurs in September, and ends on the first Sunday in October. It usually lasts 16-18 days.
To be considered an Oktoberfest Beer, the beer must have a minimum of 6.6% ABV. The beer is usually served in a one-liter glass mug called a Masskruge. One of these giants is equivalent to drinking three American beers, plus one additional beer by volume. It's easy to go overboard, as you might imagine.
bierleiche refers to those who drink too much and become "beer corpses," or "beer zombies". Even if you are only 14, know your limits.
Wait, what? Fourteen?
How old must you be to legally drink in Germany? It is not an easy question.
Germany is one of the many EU countries that couldn't adhere to the standard 18-year-old alcohol age limit.
They have also split it into two levels, much like Austria.
Germany's legal drinking age is 18 for purchasing and consuming hard spirits like vodka and schnapps. However, the German drinking age to buy beer, wine and cider in Germany is only 16. This is a nice thing.
You can still enjoy beer and wine, but not liquor, if you travel with a parent/legal guardian. Enjoy Oktoberfest with Mom and Dad. Keep your ID handy as the penalties for selling alcohol or alcohol to minors can be severe (up to EUR50,000). You will also get carded.
If you are over 18 years old, there are two German liquors that are very popular: Jagermeister (never mind the Jager-bomb), and Rumple Minze Peppermint Schnapps. This is great with hot chocolate in winter.
Italy
The Roman Empire, the Italian Republic, is one of the most important civilizations that the world has ever seen.
Its influence and importance cannot be understated. The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps are just a few of the many attractions in Rome. There are also the canals in Venice. The Pisa leaning tower. Pompeii's ruins. Italy is home to pizza, pasta, and ice cream. It is Greece's only competition for the title of "the Cradle of Western Civilization" and is second only to France in terms of the fame of its wine business.
That wine is an essential part of la dolce Vita living, which means a life of luxury and pleasure. Italians are known to enjoy a glass of wine with their lunch. A bottle of beer can be paired with pizza. A aperitivo is a mixed drink like a martini, or a negroni, to start the evening. Then, a glass wine and a digestivo will be added to help with digestion. After-dinner digestivo I love a shot of Limoncello, served chilled and slowly. However, Grappa is the traditional Italian liquor. Grappa is made of grapes and fermented to a range between 35 to 60 percent ABV.
A cup of caffe corretto (or "corrected coffee") is the best way to start your day. This is a shot espresso with a shot grappa. Living la Dolce Vita means that you can drink at any time, even if it is late in the day. But, this is what you need to remember: you should never drink too much! Be patient. It is important to keep cool when living a sweet life. Rowdy and loud drunks are sent to jail. Being drunk in public is an offense.
I'm sure you are asking what the legal drinking age is in Italy. Good question. Tricky answer.
You'll find many different opinions online. While most sites claim that Italy's legal drinking age is 18 years old, many blogs and forums insist that it is still 16. Our intern in Italy even said that she believed it was 16. As you can see, there is a lot of confusion and misinformation out there.
I'm referring to the article "Minimum legal age limits" (2020) from International Alliance for Responsible Drinking. IARD clearly states that Italy's legal drinking age is 18 and cites "Penal Code Book III Title I, Act 689, as amended by Law #189 (2012)". This clearly explains that selling or serving alcohol to anyone under the age of 18 is illegal in Italy.
There are many reasons this confusion exists. The first is that it doesn't have a legal drinking age. tourists and Italians of all ages can possess and consume alcoholic beverages in public. A parent can offer their child a glass of wine if they are buying, pouring, and drinking it. This is a common practice.
Second, there is no legal age for a minor to buy alcohol. A minor who purchases alcohol because they are older, have a fake ID or claim to be buying alcohol for their parents does not commit a crime. Technically, it is not illegal for teens to buy alcohol.
It is against the law to sell alcohol (in shops) or serve alcohol (in bars and restaurants) to minors below the age of 18.
Serving and selling is a crime. It falls to the merchants and stores to enforce this law. The law has a two-tier penalty system. If a seller sells alcohol to minors under the age of 16, the seller could be ticketed for up to $100. The fine for selling alcohol to minors under 16 years old could reach thousands of euros. They may also lose their liquor license and even end up in prison.
The stakes are so high that you would think every waiter, bartender and store clerk in Italy would be diligently checking ID cards for their age.
But, nah! You won't be carded if you don't look 18 or 16 years old.
They don't really care, it's just not that they aren't concerned. It is a culture that Italian children grew up with and they are proud of. A young teenager might say that he needs some Chianti to help guests who are coming over for the weekend. This is likely true.
What else can a child do with two bottles good red wine in their house? This is not la Dolce Vita!
Greece
The convergence of Asia, Africa, Europe and Europe: Greece, the Hellenic Republic is the birthplace and cradle for Western civilization.
Athens is the capital and largest city. It was once home to the classic philosophers Plato, Socrates and Aristotle. The Parthenon and the Acropolis are worth a visit. You can see Mount Olympus from your own eyes. Enjoy the beach at daytime and the nightclubs on legendary islands like Mykonos and Santorini. Enjoy great music and delicious food. You can also enjoy good wine.
Legend says that Dionysus, an ancient Greek god, invented wine. Although it's a legend, it's true that wine has been made and enjoyed in Greece since antiquity.
It's also very affordable, with something you can get for as low as ten to twenty euros. Because the climate and soil conditions on the various islands can be very different, there are many varieties of grapes grown in Greece. This means that you have a wide range of Greek wines that you can try, each with a different flavor profile.
Although it will take some time to find your favourite, it shouldn't be too difficult on your wallet.
You can also choose from a wide range of Greek beers. Alpha and Mythos are two of the most popular beers in the country, but every region produces its own beer. The local beer, just like wine, is made from local ingredients. Each one has a distinct flavor.
In Greece, the minimum legal drinking age is 18. This applies to all alcohol including beer, wine, and spirits. The national spirit in Greece is Ouzo. This anise-flavored aperitif is similar to raki. Ouzo can be drunk straight, but it will become milky-white if you add ice to it.
Japan
Although I have not been to Japan, I have known many Japanese people and consider them close friends. Half of them don't drink alcohol because they are allergic. The rest aren't afraid to have a few drinks.
Japan is a big beer consumer. Asahi Superdry, Sapporo Premium, and Kirin Ichiban are some of my favorite Japanese beers. These are light, pale lagers that have about 5% ABV. They are easy to find in the US, as they are widely exported.
Japan is most famous for its sake rice wine. James Bond, a fictional superspy, said sake tastes best when it is served at 98.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
This may have been true in mid-1960s when breweries were still adding distilled alcohol to their wine due to wartime rice shortfalls. However, most breweries began producing pure rice sake without any additional alcohol by the 1960s. It is much more common to serve sake chilled at a perfect 58.2 degree Fahrenheit, although warm sake can be delicious too.
Japan has been producing whisky for just over 100 years. However, their single malt and blended scotch whiskies have won tons international awards since 2001. Suntory Whisky Toki and Nikka Days are some of the top choices.
Japan's minimum drinking age for alcohol, including wine, spirits and beer, is 20.
Lithuania
The Republic of Lithuania (formerly the Duchy of Lithuania) is a small, but rich country along the eastern Baltic Sea.
These cities and towns are Instagram-ready and full of old world charm and scenery. They attract a lot of tourists from the EU, including Germany, Poland, Latvia and Lithuania, as well as from Great Britain and Lithuania.
It's no surprise, as Lithuania has a large collection of medieval castles as well as gothic cathedrals. They love their beer, wow!
Lithuania is the nation that consumes more alcohol per head than any other country on Earth. They also have the highest suicide rates in the EU. They also had the highest rates of substance abuse, binge drinking, and underage drinking.
In 2018, Lithuania passed the most stringent alcohol laws in Europe to combat these issues. You must be at least 20 years of age to buy, possess, or consume alcohol including beer and wine. In Lithuania, it is illegal to sell or offer alcoholic beverages to minors younger than 20 years old. The penalties are severe.
The Sunday closing time for alcohol sales is 3:00 pm on Sunday and 8:00 PM during weekdays. Public drinking is prohibited. Advertising for beer, wine, and spirits is prohibited. The alcohol tax (and consequently the prices) are extremely high. Many Lithuanians travel to Poland and Latvia to stock up on cheap alcohol.
Bars and clubs used to be open late and offer booze all night.
This is all to say that Vilnius, Lithuania's capital, is not the best choice for young people's epic pub crawl. Vilnius is storybook-pretty... and Lithuanians are more knowledgeable about beer brewing than anyone else. Even more than the Germans.
One thousand years ago, every Lithuanian farmhouse brewed its own beer and ale. Many of these old recipes have survived to the present day.
Lithuanian beers are unique because they use local ingredients and strange techniques. It is mildly sweet, malty, and not too hoppy. It is not possible to get it in the US, and it won't travel well. Vilnius boasts a great microbrewery scene where you can get IPAs and stouts from both imports and crafts brews.
A Lithuanian can also drink strange wine if weird beer isn't your thing. Wine is made from apples and grapes, as grapes are not able to grow in the north. It's sweet, to put it mildly. I once asked a waiter whether their apple wine was good. "Ta, Apple wine is good," she said, but with a wink and a shrug, "but apple vinegar's better!" I chose the beer.
Lithuania's national drink is Lietuviskas Midas or Lithuanian Mead. Mead! This ancient fermented honey beverage, which is made with herbs and fruits, can be spiked with alcohol to increase its ABV to 15 to 50%. It is the favorite drink of Vikings. Go to Lithuania and feed your Viking spirit. Drink strange beer and mead. Make sure you are at least twenty years old.
Kazakhstan
The Republic of Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia with the largest economy. It might also be the most important and influential country you have never heard of. It was the last Soviet Republic to declare independence from the USSR.
Kazakhstan is a major producer of oil, natural gas, and minerals. It also has a lot heavy industry. Although tourism is not a major focus in Kazakhstan, the government hopes to make it more so in the future. The U.S. and EU citizens don't need visas to travel to Kazakhstan, but it is logistically difficult. The country is expensive, the infrastructure is poor, and services are limited. The government is authoritarian and has a history of human right violations.
If you do manage to reach the top, you will be able to view incredible landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and steppes. The remains of ancient empires. Medieval fortresses. Modern cities. Nur-Sultan is the capital city and sits on the banks the Ishim River. You can catch an opera in Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, or go skiing at Shymbulak, Central Asia's largest ski resort.
Majority of the population is Muslim so alcohol laws in Kazakhstan are quite strict. Kazakhstan's drinking age is 21. Public drinking is prohibited in Kazakhstan. Avoid drinking in public. Stick to your homes, bars, and restaurants.
Their national drink is Kumys which is fermented mare’s milk (! Our intern assured us that it is not overly alcoholic, ranging from 1 to 3 percent ABV. This makes it safe for children and women, as well as pregnant women. It is the only approved alcoholic beverage for Muslims to consume. It can also be purchased as shubat or fermented cow’s milk ( airan).
There are plenty of beer options for those who are lactose intolerant. Although they brew their own beer, Karagandinskoye or Shymkentskoye remain the most popular brands. However, about a third import their beer. In Kazakhstan, Carlsberg Beer is very popular.
There is a lot of vodka, whether it's imported or locally made. I have tried XAOMA (Khaoma), a Kazakh vodka. It is delicious and supposedly ecologically pure. The price for a 700ml bottle is about $5EUR or $6 USD.
However, it is the local wines that Kazakhstan excels at.
For thousands of years, the climate, soil, and altitude have been ideal for grape growing. Although the vineyards experienced many ups and downs during the Soviet era, post-Soviet period, and the Crusades, they have returned to producing gold-medal winning wines.
For a taste, visit Arba Wines in Almaty. If you are unable to make it to Almaty in person, you can order the wine delivered to your home. Prices range from $20 to $40 for a bottle.
Luxembourg
Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is the smallest country in the EU, only Malta is larger. However, it has the highest Gross Domestic Product per head of any nation (with possible exception of tiny Lichtenstein). It is small, but it is powerful.
It might seem too expensive to travel, but that is not the case. It's not cheap, but it's also not too expensive. It is about the same price as visiting New York, London, Paris or any other sophisticated urban destination. It is definitely cheaper than Singapore or Switzerland, and Luxembourg's alcohol costs are actually lower than the European average. Luxembourg is the European country that sells more alcohol per head than any other, though most of it is exported.
Luxembourg's legal drinking age is only 16. This is to purchase, possess, or consume beer or wine, or spirits, publically or privately. No tricks, no catch.
Even if you're under 16, you can still purchase products up to 1.2% ABV. This includes Kinderbier (also known as "near beer") and the "alcohol free" apple cider. These products contain very little alcohol.
Luxembourg borders France and Germany. It is therefore not surprising that they have been making wine and brewing beer since Roman times. They prefer light pilsners and Some of the most popular beer brands include Mousel, Bofferdinging and Ourdaller. They are known for their Rieslings and Chardonnays.
Mexico
America's southern neighbor, Mexico, has it all: jungles, deserts and cities, as well as beaches.
Cancun is a great place to party, and it's home to an amazing spring break scene. Go deep sea fishing in Cabo San Lucas. Acapulco's cliff divers are a thrill to behold. Puerto Vallarta is romantic. See ancient pyramids, Mayan ruins, and Aztec temples. Scuba diving and snorkeling are great options.
Mexico is my favorite all-around destination. You can go to Europe to see the culture and civilizations, or to the Caribbean islands to see the stunning beaches. But go to Mexico to experience a balance of civilization and beaches. You will be glad that you did.
Mexico's legal drinking age is 18 in all 31 Mexican states.
Mexico is an easy country to travel, and if you are under 18, you shouldn't have any trouble buying beer. This is especially true if you are staying in an all-inclusive resort, or drinking with friends at a bar that caters to tourists.
You should also be close to your friends. Pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and pickpocketing are common in tourist areas, as I personally can attest. Violent crime has increased in areas ravaged by drug wars, such as kidnapping, murder, and rape. To stay safe, you should consider group tours and organized excursions. You should always have your passport with you, and preferably in a pickpocketproof pouch.
To enter and exit Mexico, you will need a passport.
I was a teenager when I traveled to Mexico years ago without a passport. I didn't know better. Although I'd done border town liquor runs many times without issue, this was my first time flying back from Mexico City. The US Immigrations refused to allow me in. My brother arrived with an expired passport from my childhood and saved me (which they stamped!). That was when I could still be at the airport today. Do not make the same mistake. Get your passport now.
Many Mexican beers are probably familiar to you. Corona Extra is served in a clear glass bottle with a lime wedge garnish. This light, pale beer gives it a lot of flavor. Negra Modo is a creamier, more flavorful dunkel beer with a higher ABV. Tecate is available in cans. This is especially important for those who live on beaches where glass containers are prohibited.
Mexico is all about tequila.
Tequila, a premium liquor, is made from blue agave (cactus) and is resistant to modern agricultural methods. Industrialization has not affected the process of mashing, fermenting, and distilling the plants to make liquor.
Estate-grown tequilas are the best. They are also estate-made in an artisanal, hands-on manner. There are many estates that produce thousands of brands of Tequila. Most of these brands can only be purchased in Mexico, as they are not exported. You can try different brands by visiting a tequileria. Bring something special with you.
Tequila can be a complex drink. It is usually served neat at room temperature, with salt and lime. First, you should taste some salt. Then, you can drink the tequila. Finally, take a bite out of your lime wedge.
Start with a blanco (clear, unaged Tequila), then move up to a reposado (aged two to twelve months, lightly colored) and then to an anejo or extra anejo, which can be aged for three to five years and is dark and as rich as whisky.
Pro tip: Mix cocktails like a Mexican martini or tequila sunrise with an affordable blanco Tequila. You don't have to use your French Cointreau gourmet in this margarita. Mexico makes a great, cheaper alternative called Controy.
Poland
The Republic of Poland is located in Central Europe and borders Germany in the West. They share a love for beer, sausages, and are neighbors to Germany. Poland is bordered to the east by Lithuania, Belarus, and Ukraine. They share a love for vodka and borscht. Polish bread was invented, so even if you don't know it, you may already be a fan of Polish food.
Poland offers many beaches, rugged mountains, dense forests, and opportunities to hike and camp. There is so much to do and see. Full disclosure: I am a Polish citizen and love Poland!
Let's not forget about vodka and beer.
Poland is the EU's largest beer producer, surpassing Germany. Three companies own 80% of the beer market in Poland, just like the US and Canada. They all produce drinkable mass-market beers, mainly lagers or pilsners. The most popular brands include Zywiec and Okocim and Tyskie. Zubr is the least popular.
Discovering smaller regional breweries, microbreweries, and craft breweries is the real joy. Right now, I am enjoying a lot beer made by Pinta. They have many fun drinks. Beer made with honey is also a very popular market niche. Poland is the largest mead producer in the world.
Poland exports and produces more vodka than any other country. Vodka was probably invented in Poland. It was certainly perfected there. In 1405, the first written mention of vodka (and the use of the term "vodka") comes from Poland. Many distillers switched to potatoes when the potato was introduced into Europe in the middle-1600s. Even though potato vodka is only 3% of vodka production today, Poland's Chopin Vodka has the highest-awarded potato vodka.
Zubrowka Bison Grass is another popular vodka. This vodka has a unique flavor because each bottle contains a single blade of bison grass. Zubrowka has been traditionally mixed with apple cider. It is one the most popular vodkas in the world and recently became available in the USA.
Danziger Goldwasser a herbal liquor (40% ABV), with a syrupy texture, a lot of flavor (including cinnamon cloves and the juniper), and flecks 24 carat gold. Mix Goldwasser with Jagermeister next, to make a Jagerwasser rather than a Jagerschlager. It's good!
What is the drinking age for Poland?
The minimum age for alcohol, beer, and wine in Poland is 18, just like the rest of the EU. It can be sold and served, bought, owned, and consumed. It is illegal to consume alcohol in public. This law is often ignored and not enforced.
The Polish DUI laws are less ignored and more strictly enforced. They allow a maximum blood alcohol content of 0.02%. This is nearly as low as Albania. This is due to the fact that Polish alcohol is strong and large. You can't even have one beer and drive. You ignore drunk driving at your peril.
Turkey
The capital of the Byzantine Empire (and the Ottoman Empire), the Republic of Turkey is located on the shores of Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and Aegean Sea. Visit the Turkish Riviera.
Be sure to visit Istanbul's Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The Grand Bazaar is the best place to shop if you love shopping. It was established in 1456, making it the oldest mall in the world. It remains the most visited tourist attraction. You can also try something more modern, such as the Istanbul Cevahir shopping and entertainment centre, which is the largest indoor mall in Europe.
The Republic of Turkey, which is located on both the Asian continent and the European continent, is one of the Top Ten Tourist Destinations in the World. The majority of visitors are from Europe. To enter Turkey, Americans must have a Turkish visa. It is best to use the online eVisa service and obtain a visa before you arrive at the airport.
Let me clarify one thing for any inexperienced travellers out there: a "visa", in this context, is and not a card!
"Visa", a popular bank card, has a capital V. Small-v visas are legal documents required to enter a country. This is a common error. Customers have asked me why I needed to obtain a Turkish Visa card. You can use your American Express card. It's not the exact same thing.
Before crossing the Turkish border, it is important that American tourists obtain a visa upon arrival or an electronic visa in advance. The exception to this rule is that passengers on cruise ships can arrive at the shore without their passports. These documents are kept by the ship's purser. This is an excellent way for Americans to visit Turkey, and I am one of them.
First, the good news. Turkey is a country that has a large Muslim population but is also a secular country with an active alcohol culture. Turkey's legal drinking age is 18 years.
The bad news is now. In an attempt to divert the country from Europe and the United States, the current government promotes Islam and traditional values. They actively promote Halal tourism. The Turkish alcohol laws are becoming more strict.
They have banned advertising of alcohol, prohibited sponsorship of sporting events by alcohol, and stopped selling liquor after ten p.m. The police have stepped up their efforts to stop people drinking in public. It is difficult to obtain new liquor licenses. In an effort to decrease alcohol consumption, they have increased alcohol taxes. However, alcohol is legal and people continue to drink it.
Beer is the most loved drink. It's often paired with pizza, nachos, and burgers. The classic Turkish Doner Kebab is my favorite fast food. It's a burrito-sized wrap with "mystery meat", which actually consists of chicken, beef, and lamb, that's grilled on vertical Rotisseries. Kebabs are similar in appearance to Gyros or Shawarma, but they were invented in Turkey and exported all over Europe.
Turkey is an ancient country so good wine is not exported as much. The majority of grapes are used as table grapes.
raki dominates the Turkish liquor market. This is Turkey's national drink. It is called "lion's milk" because it turns milky white with ice.
Spain
Spain was once part of the Roman Empire. The Spanish Empire was larger centuries later. Spain is now a member the EU, and France is the second most visited tourist destination in the world.
The climate is warm and sunny with mild winters. There are many beautiful sandy beaches. Ski in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Pyrenees. Enjoy the thrill of watching the bulls run in Pamplona. The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is a bizarre and enormous cathedral-like church, technically a minor basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudi. It is currently being completed in Barcelona. Nightclubs in big cities remain open late.
What is Spain's legal drinking age? The legal drinking age for alcohol in Spain, like most other EU countries, is 18. Spain is known for its high levels of alcohol consumption. Particularly when your football team wins. Or loses. It's a lot like la Dolce Vita in Italy. You can drink all you want but it shouldn't be a problem. It is important to keep your drink in the club or at home, as it is against the law. Fines up to EUR600 or $700 USD are possible.
Beer is the most popular libation. Spanish beers are more popular than those made in other parts of the "Beer Belt" like Germany and Austria. They tend to be darker, sweeter, and fuller-bodied. Alhambra is the most distinctive green bottle. Estrella is the cheapest and strongest of Spanish beers, with over 6.5% ABV. Both are delicious and affordable at around one euro each. Also, the artisanal craft beer scene is growing quickly.
The anisettes or anise-flavored liquors are also very popular. Chinchon is a great choice. It can be served ice-cold as an after-dinner digestif. Brandy is also popular in Spain because they grow lots of grapes. Brandy de Jerez or Orujo might be two varieties you might like.
Spain ranks right up with France and Italy in wine production, but is most well-known for its red wines and sherries. The cava, which is a sparkling wine similar to champagne, is also excellent. Freixenet Brit is available in many places, but it's a bit dry. You can add some orange juice to the mix. You can also buy Agua de Valencia a well-known cocktail that is made with sparkling wine, Valencia orange juice, and other liqueurs.
Spanish wine and fruit mixing is a specialty. sangria is a Spanish specialty that combines red wine with brandy and/or other liquors. It's a punch that consists of chopped fruit and red wine. You can buy pre-mixed sangrias, but it's much more fun to make your own.
If you don't feel like chopping up fruit is too hard, tinto d' verano is a simplified version: mix half of your red wine with lemon-lime Sprite or orange Fanta and then garnish with a slice lemon.
A calimocho or kalimotxo, which is half red wine and half Coca-Cola (or Pepsi), holds the fruit is even easier. If you find it difficult to make a delicious soda pop-based wine beverage, there are commercial versions that can be found in most grocery stores. These poptails are quick and easy to make and drink.
Ukraine
Ukraine is Europe's second-largest nation. The country's vast farmlands and agricultural industry make it "the breadbasket" of Europe.
Tourism is an important sector of the economy. Its low prices make it affordable to travel there. American and European citizens can travel without visas. You can stay in a resort at the Black Sea. Hike, hunt, camp, and ski in the Carpathian Mountains' primeval forests. Visit Kyiv's capital to visit the Monastery of the Caves, and the stunning Saint Sophia Cathedral.
Ukraine's legal drinking age is 18. It is prohibited to consume alcohol in public places, parks, on public transport, at sporting arenas and in elevators. Beer is their most popular alcoholic beverage. Ukrainian beer is pale lagers with around 4.5% ABV. They are also extremely cheap, at less than one dollar per beer. Although microbreweries and pubs are making stronger and more delicious beers like stouts and porters, they also cost more.
Wine is made in southern Ukraine from grapes grown there. There are many varieties, including cabernet sauvignons and chardonnays. It's good but not much is exported. The wine is produced by their vineyards every year. As the climate warms, grapes can grow further north, we will see more (and better!) Ukrainian wines in the future. For a complete tasting, visit "The Wine Bar" at Kyiv.
Ukraine, with its many grains, is an important part the "vodka belt", which is northern and eastern Europe's region. Khortytsa is perhaps the most well-known and internationally recognized brand. It is made from the magical, healing mineral water springs on Khortytsa Island, Dnieper River. Is magic vodka possible? Sign me up
Horilka is the national liquor. It is very similar to vodka, but has different flavors and aromas such as honey and berries. Due to the government's high taxes on alcohol production, the illegal manufacture of samohon (moonshine) horilka has increased. Hot chili peppers are a common ingredient in samohon and horalka. They can also be used as mixers. For authentic examples, you can shop in small towns, markets, or at fairs and festivals.
United Kingdom
The UK is the next big thing. The United Kingdom is made up of England and Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and six other counties. For centuries, Britons have been drinking at pubs and public alehouses. Pubs are an integral part of daily life in cities and villages alike. The "pub crawl" originated in Great Britain.
The UK is known for almost every kind of alcoholic beverage. Gin is produced in England. "London dry" is the most common style. The best examples are Beefeater and Bombay. Scotch whisky is made in Scotland from Johnnie Walker's, Chivas Regal's, and Glennfiddich.
Wales is well-known for its mead, apple cider, and perry (pear cider). Northern Ireland produces Irish whisky. In fact, Bushmills is the oldest licensed distillery worldwide. Guinness Beer is made in the Republic of Ireland, which is actually not part of the UK but is within the EU.
It might seem that the United Kingdom's legal drinking age would be complicated because it is a country with four nations scattered over many islands. But, this is not true.
The various regions of the UK standardized their laws in the early part of this century so that the drinking ages in England and Scotland are the same. This is also the same age as in Wales or Northern Ireland. It's quite simple and straightforward.
For beer, wine, and spirits in the UK, the legal drinking age is 18 years.
In England, Wales, and Scotland, it is permissible for 16-17-year-olds to drink beer, wine, and cider in restaurants and pubs, provided they are accompanied by their parents. However, this is not the case in Northern Ireland where minors cannot consume alcohol and it is illegal to serve alcohol under 18.
You should always have your passport and other identification with you. Most restaurants, shops, and pubs will require ID in order to comply with the law. You will be "challenged", if you appear to be under 21 years old, to produce ID.
United States
The United States of America is the richest and largest country in the world. It produces and consumes huge amounts of alcohol.
American beer is usually produced by small companies. It tends to be light and pale lagers. There is a growing market for microbreweries that make craft beer. This is where you will find your IPAs. You will find many brewpubs within larger cities.
Nearly 2000 years ago, the Vikings discovered America and named it Vinland. This was due to the abundance of grape vines that they found. American wines are outstanding and among the top in the world in many aspects. They are delicious, affordable, and easy to drink. Although wine can be produced in all 50 US states, California is the most well-known American wine region. It produces more than 80% of all American wine.
The United States is home to bourbon whiskey. It was originally made in Kentucky's Bourbon County. However, it can be made anywhere. Some of the most well-known American whiskies include Jack Daniels and Wild Turkey.
Bacardi is the most well-known American overseas territory, Puerto Rico. The rise of micro-distilleries producing craft liquors is similar to microbreweries making beer is a sign of things to come. One of the most successful stories here is Tito's Vodka. It went from being a small-batch vodka made in Austin, Texas, to becoming the best-selling vodka across America.
In all 50 US states, the legal drinking age is 21. You can get "carded" (asked to show ID) up until age 30. Drivers are allowed to drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.08%. High penalties and strict enforcement are the result. To enter the country, foreign nationals must have at least a passport. Depending on where you are from, you may need a visa.
The time is right to apply for your passport if you are a young person who wants to travel. There is a large fee to apply and you must be careful with the forms. Any mistakes could result in your application being denied.
A passport-sized photo must also be provided. This can prove more difficult than it sounds.
The State Department has specific requirements regarding the photo they accept. It is worth paying a professional to take the photograph. Or, you can save time and money using AiPassportPhoto. You can instantly turn your picture into a State Department approved photo.
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Once you have taken your passport photo, you can fill out the appropriate form: DS-11 to get a new passport or DS-82 for renewal. Make copies of all supporting documents, such as your birth certificate, photo ID, etc., and make an appointment at the US passport acceptance office.
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The following is a summary of drinking habits and legal drinking ages in the world:
To wrap it up, a kebab is what Americans love. However, they must be 21 to purchase it.
The minimum drinking age laws in different countries vary. A passport is required to travel visa-free to more than 140 countries. This includes all countries except Turkey. These countries all have lower minimum legal drinking age than the United States. This is something you should take advantage of, if possible. Each of these countries has thriving, interesting alcohol cultures. They are worth visiting for other reasons.
The tourism industry is witnessing a significant growth in alcohol tourism. People enjoy visiting local breweries, vineyards, distilleries, as well as sampling regional beers, wines, and spirits. You can find a pub crawl organized in London. Enjoy a hot-air balloon ride above the Burgundy vineyards. It's a vast world. Find it.