France is renowned for its culinary prestige, which can be intimidating for tourists not familiar with the local bar lingo. Follow these tips the next time you are drinking in France.
Hold the rocks
Unless you like your scotch neat, don’t expect ice to be served if you are not at a fast food franchise or a bar catered toward American tourists, which are usually marked by a sign saying “Bar Américain.”
Start and finish
It is not uncommon for a cocktail course to be served before and after a meal, referred to as an apértif and disgestif. An apértif is meant to build an appetite and can range from fortified wine to dry Champagne depending on which region of France you are visiting. Pastises are popular in the south of France, while Normandy is partial to Calvados brandy. A digestif’s purpose is to aid in the digestion of a meal, usually served after coffee. These are usually taken straight and can be made from a large variety of liquors.
Stay local
When in France, do as the locals do and order the Vin du Pays (local wine). This will introduce you to the wine’s various elements and complexities unique to that region. The local wine will usually be the Vin du Maison (house wine).
Boissons san Alcool (Non-alcoholic Drinks)
It can be tempting to drink all day on your vacation, but here are some tips for ordering non-alcoholic beverages. Soda and juices are everywhere, as is tea and coffee, though almost all the coffee in France is made from an espresso machine. Milk is served with coffee but not consumed as a drink for anything else. Bottled water is usually sparkling, but if you want flat water, order a bottle of Evian. If you are fine with tap water, order “eau nature.”
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Dec 19, 20244 Hotels to Stay at for 2025 Sporting Events
Diehard sports fans often travel near and far to watch their favorite teams. With plenty of exciting sporting events taking place in 2025, these hotels offer a respite for sports fanatics after the events.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Hotel
Dec 19, 2024Postcard Cabins Brand Now Part of Marriott
More than 1,200 glamping cabins recently joined Marriott in an acquisition set to bring more travelers closer to nature. Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway, was founded in 2015 with the mission to bring free time in nature to more people.
Destinations / Europe
Dec 18, 2024Why You Should Visit Florence in January
Ready to book your first 2025 getaway? Consider Florence, Italy, for two can’t-miss events in January.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Dec 18, 2024Brookmere Debuts Today in Saratoga Springs, New York
Brookmere debuts today in Saratoga Springs, New York, for its soft opening. Situated on 10 acres near many of Saratoga Springs’ iconic attractions, this property boasts 88 guestrooms and suites alongside a host of well-appointed amenities.
ShareThis