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This summer heat has everyone's mind on one thing: vacation getaway! But if traveling isn't in your near future, don't worry because we've got the perfect drinks to make your staycation truly refreshing. We're sharing 12 cocktail and mocktail recipes that will have you feeling like you've been whisked away to your dream destination without ever having to leave the comfort of your home. No packing, no problem!
Mexico: Grilled Grapefruit Paloma
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While many think of the margarita as the most traditional Mexican drink, the paloma is the real star of the show! Grilled grapefruit and lime take this traditional Mexican cocktail to the next level, giving it the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and smoky. Be sure to save all the juices accumulated while grilling to get the richest, smokiest flavor in your drink.
West Africa: Malian Ginger Juice
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If the breathtaking castles and crystal blue beaches of West Africa are where you long to vacation then this Malian ginger juice is the perfect mocktail for you. The fresh ginger root and mint leaves give it the perfect balance of cool and spicy. Use alcoholic ginger beer for a boozy twist. “I have a friend from Mali, so I made this for him. He loved it except they use sucre vanille instead of plain sugar. You can make your own vanilla sugar or just add some vanilla extract. Super good,” says Rebecca.
Florida: Cocojito Frozen Mojito
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Photo by oceandrone
Served at Florida hot spots like Bud & Alley's in Seaside, the coconut mojito is a statewide favorite. You can make it it a little more coconut forward by adding a few more ounces of coconut cream and topping it with toasted coconut flakes. Kimar says, "Hubby and I really liked this. Be sure to remove all the white pith from the limes so your drinks won't be bitter."
Cape Cod: The Cape Codder
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Photo by Deb C
The Cape Cod cocktail, also simply called a vodka cranberry, is light, easy, and refreshing. "This one is awesome. I moistened my glass with a lime wedge and then rimmed it with pink sugar. Added in some fresh cranberries and it was like heaven! Definitely making this one again," says Rachelle.
New York: Cosmopolitan
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The iconic drink popularized by Carey, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda from "Sex and the City" is the perfect nostalgic sip if you're craving a visit to the Big Apple. Slip on your favorite pair of heels (don't worry, they don't have to be Manolo Blahniks) and sip this yummy cocktail while you yell at Mr. Big for all his terrible decisions.
Jamaica: Agua de Jamaica
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Photo by Buckwheat Queen
This Jamaican mocktail is tart and refreshing with surprising warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It is served over ice in warmer months and served warm in cooler weather. Be sure to allow it to sit overnight for all the lovely flavors to infuse. E.G.H. says, "Love this recipe! My entire family loved it and drank the whole thing in 2 days! I added a little less sugar to make it extra tart too."
Italy: Aperol Spritz
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Photo by Buckwheat Queen
Whether it's the Venice canals, the Renaissance art, or the breathtaking countryside that has Italy at the top of your list for a getaway, this classic Italian cocktail will trick your senses into believing you're right in the middle of the action. The Aperol Spritz is light, crisp, and slightly bitter. Reader Carrie suggests adding a green olive for the true Venice experience.
Paris: French 75
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Paris is a dream vacation destination for so many. The bustling city center filled with bakeries, cafes, monuments, art galleries, and museums?there's something magical for just about everyone. If you're dreaming of Paris we highly recommend the classic French 75 cocktail. It's light and bubbly, and to make it even more French we love adding a splash of St. Germain elderflower liqueur.
Spain: Classic Spanish Sangria
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Photo by Chef Mo
If Spain is on your mind you'll love this sangria recipe. Keep it truly Spanish by using grenache wine and enjoy it as the locals do with small bites of seasonal food known as tapas. "This is an authentic version of the popular wine drink," says Lisa. "You can add any fruit that you want, but I find that apples and pears absorb all the rum."
China: Lychee Martini
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Photo by Ju Hee
China is home to some of the most beautiful ancient architecture and the most delicious modern cuisine in the world. This lychee martini highlights the fruit that's been cultivated in China for centuries. We recommend adding a splash of Kwai Feh for an even tastier drink.
Hawaii: Mai Tai
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Hawaii is one of the top vacation destinations in the world. With just one sip of this fruit forward cocktail, you'll be transported to the sun-filled beaches of the Big Island. This tiki classic can be made more authentically by using native Hapa Rum from Island Distillers. Danielle says, "Great drink! I like to add lime and amaretto in to make a more authentic tasting Mai Tai."
Texas: Ranch Water
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Photo by Allrecipes
This refreshing Texas favorite has exploded on TikTok. Folks across the country are cooling down with the crisp combo of sparkling water, lime, and tequila. Our favorite way to drink it is straight out of the Topo Chico bottle with a light sprinkle of salt around the rim.
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