Celebrate World Cocktail Day on May 13th by discovering iconic signature cocktails from around the world. Starting with the famous kick of rum and coconut in the piña colada of Puerto Rico to the pink-hued Singapore sling, there are cocktails out there to tickle everyone’s taste buds. This year, the almost half (46%)* of global travelers who are looking for great cuisine on their next trip, might instead find delicious local flavour in a cocktail glass! With a mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, Booking.com has hand-picked some of the world’s tastiest cocktails along with their idyllic origins that are worth traveling to.
The Dark ‘n’ Stormy – Bermuda
Dreaming of powder-soft and pink-hued sands, cerulean waters, and a laid-back island lifestyle? Then look no further than the secret hideaway of Bermuda. While here, make sure to sample the island’s signature cocktail, the dark ‘n’ stormy. It is mixed with dark rum, ginger beer, and is served over ice and garnished with a slice of lime, although no true Bermudian would ever dream of adding lime juice to their dark ‘n’ stormy! Discover hidden adventures on the island of Bermuda – from out of this world diving spots and Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve to the wonders of the Crystal Cave and Fantasy Cave.
Where to stay: The luxurious Hamilton Princess & Beach Club A Fairmont Managed Hotel is perfectly situated. Overlooking beautiful Hamilton Harbor, this escape is beloved for its views of floating sun loungers and four first-class dining restaurants. Guests can take a short, sunny stroll to the heart of Hamilton, where they will find an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options – ideal for finding a bar serving the famed dark ‘n’ stormy cocktail. Or opt for the island’s signature drink at the hotel’s very own Crown & Anchor Bar, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the restaurant or outside on the terrace.
Piña Colada – San Juan, Puerto Rico
Travelers to San Juan will love the contrasting settings – from the enchanting Isla Verde strip to the cobblestoned old city, dotted with Spanish colonial buildings. Visitors can also learn more about the charming streets’ rich history on a Guided City Walking Tour, featuring a series of brightly colored buildings dating back to the 16th Century, the San Cristóbal fortress, as well as the old city walls. Then cool off over the nation’s signature piña colada cocktail, a decadently sweet drink made with rum, coconut milk, and pineapple.
Where to stay: Settle in for an unforgettable stay at the chic 21st century La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort. It’s just a short walk away from the gorgeous sandy beach of Condado and boasts such incredible facilities as an outdoor infinity pool, 24-hour casino, and several fine-dining restaurants. Guests here can relish a piña colada or any other refreshing cocktail of choice, which can be enjoyed from the poolside bar or while relaxing on a lounge bed at the sundeck.
Negroni – Florence, Italy
Italy’s signature cocktail, the negroni, is made from gin, vermouth rosso, Campari, and garnished with an orange peel. Best known for the stunning Duomo, Florence is flanked by amazing Romanesque and Gothic-style buildings and a historic center. Legend has it that the first negroni was mixed in Florence, Italy, in 1919 at the Cafe Casoni by Count Camillo Negroni, who ordered the bartender to strengthen his drink. After the success of the cocktail, the Negroni family founded the Negroni Distillery in Treviso. Beyond the negronis, Florence will delight foodie travelers with its delicious cuisine. To experience even more of this city’s local flavors, visitors should sign up for a Cooking Class in Florence to try their hands at whipping up fresh pasta and tiramisu.
Where to stay: The charming country house of Marignolle Relais & Charme – Residenza d’Epoca offers an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the luscious hillsides, charming rooms, and is just a short drive from the historic center of Florence. Wake up to daily fresh breakfasts in the sunny gazebo by the swimming pool, invitingly furnished with deck chairs and parasols.
Black Russian – Brussels, Belgium
From the high fashion scene of Antwerp to the romantic fairytale-like town of Bruges and the delightful capital of Brussels, there really is something for all types of travelers in Belgium. Oozing charm and culture, Brussels is a firm favorite among those looking for a city break and is perfect for the 35% of travelers* planning one this year. Travelers to Belgium must also try the country’s signature cocktail, the Black Russian. 
Where to stay: The stylish and characterful Harmon House is full of modern touches and showcases a spa and wellness center, as well as an inviting bar and terrace. Popular tourist attractions, such as the Horta Museum and Egmont Palace, may also be found nearby and make this hotel the perfect base to discover the city’s finest sites.
Invented by a Belgian barman in 1949, this refreshing concoction is made with a mixture of vodka and coffee liqueur – and packs a heavy punch!
Singapore Sling – Singapore
When visiting Singapore, travelers can soak up all its natural beauty while remaining in awe of the country’s alternating worlds – from ancient temples and rows of skyscrapers to luxury penthouses and jungle tree-houses. Make sure to sample the country’s claim to mixology fame – the Singapore sling. This gin-based cocktail contains Cointreau, Dom Benedictine, Grenadine, lime, pineapple juice, and cherry brandy, which gives it its famous pink hue. Enjoy this tantalizing drink at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel, rumored to be where the first Singapore sling was mixed back in 1915 as an alternative to straight gin for ladies.
Where to stay: Housed in a beautifully restored building, the iconic Raffles Hotel provides a relaxing getaway in the heart of the city. This luxurious property features a spectrum of fine-dining options, with an impressive fourteen restaurants and even a shopping arcade onsite. Travelers will appreciate being able to sample such a myriad of cuisines at the property – from French, Western, Asian, and Chinese, while also indulging in the legendary Singapore sling at the hotel’s Long Bar. Other facilities include an extensive outdoor pool with a bar that’s perfect for sipping this cocktail on a hot Singapore day.