FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
GNTO

Drinking in France

by Akhil Kalepu

Jan 25, 2015

© Typhoonski | Dreamstime

Destination

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.

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Travel Goods
Nov 21, 2024

Never Lose an Item Again with Apple’s New Share Item Location Feature

It’s your worst nightmare: Your plane is taxiing and you’re looking out the window, only to realize you’ve left your iPad or laptop in the airport. Thanks to a new feature from Apple, these fears can be allayed, ensuring we always know where our valuables are, whether traveling or at home.

Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City

Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.

Dining/Entertainment
Nov 20, 2024

Experience the Only Restaurant Made Entirely of Ice in America

You’ve heard of ice hotels, but what about ice restaurants? When ice Hôtel de Glace de Québec opens in January 2025, it will be home to the only restaurant made entirely of snow and ice in America thanks to a partnership with Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.

Destinations
Nov 20, 2024

What Destinations Are Trending in 2025?

Luxury travel company Scott Dunn looks ahead to 2025 with predictions of hot destinations to visit. These focus on under-explored locations, sustainable tourism and exclusive experiences.

Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History

Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.

Destinations / Europe
Nov 20, 2024

Where to Find the Best Stargazing Spots in Ireland

This year, the Northern Lights put on quite the display across Ireland, but don’t think these lights are the only thing you can see in Ireland. In fact, many spots across the country provide some of the best opportunities to stargaze thanks to low levels of light pollution. Ireland has three International Dark Sky Parks and even more spots which, although not accredited, are worth a visit for anyone wishing to see the sky in its unfiltered form.