1. The Butterfinger, Don CeSar, St. Pete Beach

The Don CeSar, known as the “Pink Palace,” is a luxurious beachfront resort on St. Pete Beach, Florida, radiating old Hollywood elegance. With its Mediterranean architecture and sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s a destination that blends opulence with nostalgia. Here, I discovered the Butterfinger cocktail—decadent and indulgent, much like the hotel itself.

This rich blend of Baileys Irish Cream, Butterscotch Schnapps, Kahlua, and vodka is the perfect poolside treat. To keep the cocktail balanced, I recommend scaling back on the Kahlua, so it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. It’s an ideal drink to enjoy while lounging in this timeless setting, watching the sunset over the water.

Recipe:

• 1.5 oz Baileys Irish Cream
• 1.5 oz Butterscotch Schnapps
• 1 oz Kahlua (adjust to 0.5 oz for balance)
• 1.5 oz Vodka

2. The Virgin Redhead, Virgin Atlantic Club Lounge

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is not just a lounge—it’s an experience. With its sleek design, plush seating, and high-end amenities, it’s the perfect place to unwind before a long flight. In this stylish environment, I was introduced to the Virgin Redhead. It is a cocktail that’s as bold and vibrant as the airline itself.

This drink is a combination of Prosecco, Aviation Gin, fresh lemon juice, and hints of framboise and raspberry puree. It is both refreshing and sophisticated. Served in a champagne flute, it’s an effervescent blend. It matches the excitement of air travel. It sets the perfect tone for my journey ahead.

Recipe:

• 100 ml Prosecco
• 10 ml Aviation Gin
• 10 ml Fresh lemon juice
• Dash of Framboise (strawberry liqueur)
• Dash of Raspberry puree
• Dash of sugar syrup

Method:

1. Mix all ingredients (except Prosecco).
2. Pour into a champagne flute.
3. Top with Prosecco for a sparkling finish.

3. The Flaming Lamborghini, Ritz-Carlton, Singapore

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, is synonymous with luxury and dramatic flair. This makes it the perfect place to experience the Flaming Lamborghini. This cocktail, much like the city itself, is a showstopper. It is an audacious mix of Baileys, coffee liqueur, sambuca, and blue curaçao. It is lit on fire and consumed in a striking presentation of flair.

The process is as much a spectacle as the drink. First, sambuca and Kahlua are layered in a glass, and the sambuca is set ablaze. As it burns, Baileys and blue curaçao are poured in, transforming it into a mesmerizing fire-and-ice experience. This cocktail was enjoyed in the sophisticated setting of the Ritz-Carlton’s bar. It was as bold and unforgettable as the skyline view from the hotel itself.

Recipe:

• 30 ml Baileys
• 30 ml Coffee liqueur
• 30 ml Sambuca
• 30 ml Blue Curaçao

Method:

1. Layer Kahlúa and Sambuca in a glass.
2. Ignite the Sambuca and, using a straw, sip through the layers.
3. While drinking, gradually pour Baileys and Blue Curaçao into the mix for a spectacular finish.

4. The Dark ‘n Stormy, Bermuda

Bermuda’s charm is timeless, with its pink sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. And nothing embodies the island’s laid-back spirit more than its national cocktail, the Dark ‘n Stormy. I enjoyed this iconic drink during a sunny afternoon by the beach. It complemented the island’s tranquil yet vibrant vibe.

A simple mix of Goslings Black Seal Rum and ginger beer, the Dark ‘n Stormy is refreshing and slightly spicy. The rum floats on top of the ginger beer like a storm cloud over the turquoise waters. It is ready to be stirred into a tangy, invigorating brew. It’s a cocktail that captures the essence of Bermuda’s natural beauty and easy-going rhythm.

Recipe:

• 6 oz. Goslings Stormy Ginger Beer
• 2 oz. Goslings Black Seal Rum
• Lime wedge (optional)

Method:

1. Fill a tall glass with ice.
2. Pour in ginger beer and float the rum on top.
3. Stir until the drink resembles a stormy sky, and garnish with a lime wedge.

These cocktails have become standout moments from my travels, each one reflecting the unique vibe of its destination. The elegant charm of the Don CeSar captivated me. The stylish atmosphere of the Virgin Club Lounge exhilarated me. The bold spectacle of Singapore’s Ritz-Carlton astonished me. The laid-back feel of Bermuda relaxed me. Each drink added a special touch to my journey. If these cocktails catch your interest, why not try making them at home? I’d love to hear about your own travel-inspired cocktail adventures—feel free to drop me a message or share your experiences. Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram for more travel tips and cocktail inspiration!