Category: Travel – Where to Drink

From pub pedals on St. Augustine Beach to drinking abroad in Barcelona and Greece, learn about the Boozy Blondes’ favorite travel destinations and their recommendations where to visit!

Season 5, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 099 | Italy: Venice Food & Wine Tour

The Boozy Blondes

The Boozy Blondes are bringing you back to Italy in this episode, and they are letting you in on a little secret: if there’s one travel rule they swear by, it’s to book a food (preferably paired with booze) tour for early on in your trip, ideally on day one or two, especially when you’re visiting a new city.

Listen in as the Boozy Blondes break down why the Eat Like a Local: Venice 3-Hour Small-Group Food Tasting Tour through Viator ended up being one of the smartest (and tastiest) decisions of their entire Venetian adventure.

The DOE is a Bianco Spritz in this episode in honor of a valuable tip the girls learned during their tour. This spritz, a refreshing mix of Prosecco, white wine, and sparkling water, became the group’s go-to drink for the remainder of the trip. And bonus, learning a drink you can easily recreate at home makes it feel like the vacation keeps going!

Venice is magical! But it’s also overwhelming. Crowds, winding alleyways, and more than a few overpriced spritzes aimed squarely at tourists can make it tricky to know where to eat and drink well, and that’s where a local-led food tour comes in.

Instead of tourist traps and Tik-Tok bait, this tour focuses on authentic Venetian spots: tiny wine bars, standing-room-only cicchetti counters, and neighborhood restaurants that locals actually frequent. The kind of places travelers would likely walk right past without a guide pointing the way.

This tour covered a lot of ground! The girls definitely got their steps in and worked off some of the indulgences they enjoyed.

Tour details:

  • Price: Around $93 per person (September 2025)
  • Start time: 10:45 AM near the Rialto Bridge
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  • Stops: 7–8 local bars and restaurants
  • Tastings: About 15 food and drink tastings total
  • Group size: Small and intimate
  • Guide: An expert local who shares history, legends, and insider tips along the way

Those 15 tastings are spread across multiple stops, meaning guests sample a variety of cicchetti, pours, and bites without ever feeling rushed—or stuffed too early.

One standout moment for the Blondes was their first cicchetti stop, featuring a topping of tomato confit…slow-roasted tomatoes and garlic in olive oil. It was so good it inspired Chrissy to recreate homemade versions as Christmas gifts back home. Another great stop was for gelato at the conclusion of the tour. Everywhere you look in Venice, you’ll find gelato shops showcasing their variety of flavors towering high. But that’s not where to go. Find a smaller shop off the beaten path. You’ll find better ingredients and flavors!

By participating in the tour, the Boozy Blondes had:

  • A mental map of the neighborhood
  • A list of bars to revisit later in the trip
  • Trusted restaurant recommendations

They even ran into their guide, Anastasia, later in the week—proof that after a tour like this, Venice starts to feel a little less like a maze and a lot more like home.

Remember these key tips if you’re planning to book a food tour:

  • Book early in your trip. Don’t save food tours for your last day.
  • Bring cash. For tips, snacks, and impulse buys.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking and standing A LOT.
  • Hydrate. Wine math works differently in Italy, but water still matters.
  • Communicate dietary restrictions early. Preferably when booking.
  • Use reputable booking platforms. Viator offered flexible payment, free cancellation, and peace of mind.
  • Use restrooms when you can. Bathrooms are different in Italy compared to the states. Just trust the girls on this one.
  • Take photos with location enabled. Future-you will want to find these places again.
  • Plan buffer time before and after. Don’t rush—leave room to linger or return to favorites.

And maybe bring a backpack. If you’re anything like the Boozy Blondes, you’re probably going to buy something. And remember. This tour is not a power walk. The pace is easy, with plenty of stops to sip, snack, and soak in the city.

By the end, Venice felt less intimidating, more approachable, and a whole lot tastier. And if blending in while slightly buzzed is the goal of every vacation… this tour absolutely delivers.

Have you booked a food tour in Venice or another city? Let the girls know what you think! Message them on Instagram or email them!

Season 5, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 098 | Boozy Blondes Happy Hour: Charleston, SC & Clayton, GA

The Boozy Blondes

Listen here! Watch here!! (Yes, watch on the Boozy Blondes YouTube Channel!)

After three weeks apart, the Boozy Blondes were long overdue for a proper catch-up. Both Chrissy and Molly had visited some Boozy Blondes Podcast-worthy spots, so they decided to host their own virtual Happy Hour and invite their listeners along!

The conversation spanned two very different vibes: off-season wine country in North Georgia and festive cocktail magic in Charleston. Speaking of wine country, the DOE is red wine. Both girls enjoyed a glass (or two) during their chat, and the proof is shown in their purple-stained teeth! Commonly referred to as “wich-mouth” by the blondes, you can check out what they mean on YouTube. This episode was recorded and now lives on the Boozy Blondes YouTube Channel for you to enjoy!

While most people don’t immediately associate North Georgia with wine country, that might be their first mistake. Tucked into the scenic mountains near Clayton and Sky Valley is a surprisingly impressive wine scene — complete with microclimates, European varietals, and boutique tasting rooms!

One of Chrissy’s standout stops was Tiger Mountain Vineyards, a boutique winery nestled in, you guessed it, Tiger, Georgia.

Established in 1995, Tiger Mountain was the first vineyard in Georgia to successfully establish European grape varieties — a move that continues to pay off in award-winning wines. And for Florida girls used to muscadine-heavy blends, discovering structured, balanced European-style wines in the North Georgia mountains feels like uncovering a secret.

Chrissy was surprised to find the former tasting space a storage area while a beautifully renovated outbuilding houses the main tasting area and event venue. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the vines and mountains, creating a dreamy backdrop. Chrissy ordered a bottle of Cab Franc and enjoyed charcuterie and vineyard views upstairs. Downstairs, there’s a covered patio, a stage for live music, and heaters for year-round sipping. Tiger Mountain Vineyards is also home to the Red Barn Café, cellar tours and barrel tastings, and harvest events where guests can stomp grapes! There is also a fully renovated vacation rental home on the property that is ideal for weddings, girls’ trips, or bachelorette weekends.

Chrissy’s next standout spot is Old Know Beverage Company in downtown Clayton, Georgia. Chrissy swears this micro-distillery and cocktail lounge is exactly what the mountain town was missing. Founded in 2021 by Mary Catherine Matheny and Ryan Warner Wood, Old Know distills all of its own spirits using botanicals sourced from local farmers. Standout drinks included the Green Wood Punch (gin-based), Han’s Island (bourbon-based), Golden Hour (gin-based), and Mister Brightside (rye-based).

But perhaps even better than the cocktails is the vibe and décor inside – it was Chrissy’s dream space! Vintage meets botanical meets big-city cocktail bar.

When a longtime favorite restaurant in Clayton closed its original location, Chrissy was really sad. She looked forward to meals there when she visited each year. But turns out, it wasn’t gone; just relocated and reimagined.

Now operating as Fortify Pizza & Burger Bar, the concept combines wood-fired pizza, burgers, craft beer, sports bar, and a hidden rum bar inside! The Road Town Rum Bar feels like stepping out of the mountains and into the British Virgin Islands. Umbrella drinks, colorful tiki menus, and tropical vibes tucked behind a casual sports setting create an unexpectedly fun contrast.

Chrissy ordered a wood-fired forrest mushroom pizza with rosemary oil, truffle oil, fresh herbs, and vegan mozzarella cheese, and she couldn’t resist ordering a fun drink from the tiki menu!

Meanwhile, down in Charleston, South Carolina, Molly was soaking in holiday magic. She stayed at The Charleston Place, which in addition to being beautiful boujee, delivered full festive energy — Christmas trees, elaborate train displays, and snowfall each night! The Thoroughbred Club inside the hotel set the mood with piano and cello music, delicious old-fashioneds, and classic Southern elegance.

Molly spent her time in Charleston eating and drinking through the town and had a few standout spots she mentions. The first is Well Hung Vineyards, serving up wine flights, craft cocktails, and delicious food! Seasonal drinks like “Winter in Jalisco” (tequila-based) and festive hot toddies paired beautifully with shareable plates.

Since it was Christmastime, Prohibition had a holiday pop-up bar takeover called Sippin’ Santa. It was spectacular! The girls love the holiday pop-up at their hometown bar, Forgotten Tonic (listen to their interview with owner John Moore in Episode 004), and they agree it’s fun to see how other pop-ups illustrate a Christmas theme.

She really enjoyed By The Way, a cozy neighborhood bar with fantastic drinks and impressive food options! She enjoyed an espresso martini and wine paired with truffle deviled eggs and a crab grilled cheese sandwich!

Miller’s All Day was recommended for breakfast and Molly sadly passed on the espresso martini flight that morning. She did enjoy a rosemary poinsettia, and Boozy Bro Rainer loved his bacon-infused bourbon Bloody Mary! Molly vows to return with Chrissy to tackle the espresso martini flight!

Frannie & The Fox was another great spot for both food and drinks. The Ranch Water comes in a mini Pellegrino bottle! You can find this bar in the Emeline Hotel.

Molly’s gluttonous adventure ended at Circa 1886, located in the original carriage house of the historic Wentworth Mansion. Molly ordered the tasting menu with a wine pairing, and although she didn’t love all the wine options, she loved a new glass with each dish! She highly recommends Circa 1886 if you want an elevated dining experience.

One thing is for sure – the Boozy Blondes lived up to their name on their respective time apart! They are now armed with a list of places to enjoy with each other! So stay tuned – it’s only the beginning of Season 5, so who knows where the girls will end up next!

Be sure to subscribe to the Boozy Blondes YouTube Channel to see all the photos and videos from this episode. Make sure to follow the girls on Instagram too. If you have recommendations in Charleston or Clayton, leave them in the comments below!

Season 5, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 096 | Italy: Venice

The Boozy Blondes

Venice isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. A floating city of winding canals, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old history, Venice feels frozen in time in the best possible way. In this episode of The Boozy Blondes Abroad, the girls take listeners along on one of their most memorable trips yet: a Venetian adventure filled with Prosecco, planning spreadsheets, spritzes to-go, and a vow renewal inside a 16th‑century palace. And speaking of Prosecco, that is the Drink of the Episode (or “DOE” as the girls say).

The Boozy Blondes stand by it: Venice is worth the hype! Founded in the 5th century and traveled only by foot or boat, Venice’s preservation is unmatched. Narrow alleyways lead to quiet neighborhoods, bustling piazzas open up unexpectedly, and nearly every turn reveals a view that feels cinematic. It’s romantic, chaotic, overwhelming, and magical all at once, especially when experienced with a large group and a well-stocked Prosecco supply.

For the Boozy Blondes, this trip wasn’t just about sightseeing. It marked a major life milestone: Chrissy was celebrating her 20th wedding anniversary and vow renewal, which Molly officiated, hosted inside a jaw-dropping Venetian palace – which also doubled as the Boozy Blondes’ residence for their time in Venice. Red carpets leading to the canal, priceless art lining the walls, dramatic staircases, and strict house rules from Chrissy (no red wine allowed) made it feel less like a rental and more like living inside a museum.

Chrissy found this magical gem through Truly Venice Apartments. The pros? Privacy, incredible views, a central home base, quality time together, and the ability to stock the kitchen and play bartender. The cons? Lugging suitcases up endless stairs, navigating trash pickup schedules, limited air conditioning in historic spaces, and the constant fear of breaking something priceless. #WorthIt

For travelers considering hosting an event in Venice, the Boozy Blondes recommend focusing on budget and timing. Prices are high year‑round, but shoulder season can help with both cost and crowds. And a key tip: avoid using the word “wedding” unless you want to watch prices skyrocket. Hotels, private venues, and event planners like Love Gracefully are all solid options depending on your priorities.

Whether you are there to celebrate a special event or just take a vacation, Venice may be small, but its food and bar scene is mighty. With restaurants and bars often seating just a handful of tables, planning ahead is essential—especially with a group of eleven, which was the number of people in the Boozy Blondes squad.

Highlights included:

  • Retro Wine Bar – A Boozy Blondes favorite, known for expertly crafted cocktails, generous portions, and a cozy, vinyl‑lounge vibe that feels like a stylish living room.
  • Al Giardinetto da Severino – A relaxed courtyard dinner with great wine, espresso martinis, and an atmosphere perfect for lingering.
  • Spritz Bianco – The group favorite after learning about it on a food and wine tour (hear all about this tour in an upcoming episode!). Made with white wine or sparkling wine, soda water, and a white bitter liqueur or dry vermouth, it became the official drink of the trip.

Pro tip from the blondes: Venice is a city made for strolling with a drink in hand. Yes, open containers are allowed!

If there’s one thing the Boozy Blondes believe in, it’s planning hard so you can relax harder. This trip came with a 40‑page itinerary, spreadsheets, index cards, and color‑coded schedules. It sounds extra, but it worked. Coordinating so many people with so many places to see and so many eats and drinks, this planning helped keep everyone organized and prepared so vacation was relaxed!

But just as important as planning was building in downtime. A designated free day allowed Molly to explore hidden gems like the Scala Contarini del Bovolo and the Secret Itineraries Tour of Doge’s Palace, while Chrissy stayed back, made cocktails, and soaked up palace views from the balcony. Venice rewards both curiosity and rest.

The girls also discuss Venice transportation in this episode because if you don’t pre-plan, Venice is a monster to navigate, especially upon arrival and departure.

Top takeaways:

  • Consider flying into larger hubs like Milan or Rome, then taking a train to Venice.
  • If flying directly into Venice, splurge on a private water taxi for arrival. It’s expensive—but unforgettable. The girls recommend Consorzio Motoscafi Venezia.
  • Public water taxis are affordable but crowded and not ideal for those prone to seasickness.
  • Walking is often faster than you think – just allow enough time.
  • Train travel out of Venice requires serious planning, especially with luggage. Private water taxis to the train station are worth it.
  • Book guaranteed trains when possible, especially during strike season.
  • Always carry coins; train station restrooms aren’t free.

Some of Venice’s best moments happen away from the main tourist sites. The Boozy Blondes recommend:

  • Visiting lesser‑known churches
  • Wandering around to find quieter streets and local vibes
  • Taking evening passeggiatas after dinner
  • Exploring nearby islands like Murano, Burano, and Lido

The girls also talk about the importance of making dining reservations – especially if you are traveling with a larger group. Restaurants are small and fill quickly. Also, remember dinner will take a long time – embrace it. Food is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.

If you listened to Episode 085 | Italy: Roman Angels & Demons Pub Crawl (listen here), you’d know the girls have a favorite souvenir – tattoos! Venice was no different. Most of the group opted to bring home this (permanent) souvenir, and the Boozy Blondes highly recommend Underskin Studio in Venice. Roberto and Lorenzo took care of the group, and everyone had the best time at the studio. Remember if you plan to get a tattoo on your trip, plan it towards the end of your vacation and remember to bring aftercare!

Between vow renewals, palace living, spritzes, train chaos, tattoos, and unforgettable laughs, Venice left its mark on the Boozy Blondes. It was proof that thoughtful planning, the right travel companions, and a little lot of Prosecco can turn a trip into a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience.

Venice may challenge you—but it rewards you even more. And for the Boozy Blondes, it will always be a city worth returning to. If you’re planning a trip, reach out to the girls to help you plan, give recommendations or help you plan! Message them on Instagram or email them! Saluti!

Season 5, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 095 | St Augustine Annual Nights of Pints

The Boozy Blondes

If you love travel, festive pub crawls, the holiday season, drinking for a cause, and craft beer, this episode is for you! The Boozy Blondes introduce you to one of St. Augustine’s best holiday traditions: Nights of Pints. Think of it as the cooler, boozier cousin to the city’s famous Nights of Lights — same glowing historic streets, same festive energy, but with significantly more beer involved.

The DOE is surprisingly not beer, but mimosas! The girls recorded this episode the day after their nights of pints adventure, so they kept the party going the next morning, and also, bubbles were needed to celebrate the start of Season 5!

So Nights of Pints. Each year from late November through early January, America’s oldest city transforms into a romantic, European‑feeling holiday destination, wrapped in more than three million white lights. Balconies glow, palm trees sparkle, and centuries‑old stone buildings feel straight out of a Christmas village. Now add a craft beer scavenger hunt to that picture, and you’ve got Nights of Pints.

During Nights of Pints, the historic district becomes a walkable craft beer playground. Participating breweries and bars (which vary year to year) offer special brews, seasonal releases, and exclusive taps. All you have to do is purchase a Nights of Pints pass at one of the participating locations, grab your punch card, and start sipping.

The cost for 2025 is $40.00. Your pass includes a commemorative t‑shirt and a free pint at each participating brewery. From there, it’s a boozy choose‑your‑own‑adventure. You can knock it all out in one ambitious day, or pace yourself and spread the fun across multiple outings. The girls love that it’s as relaxed or as boozy as you want to make it.

What makes Nights of Pints special is the vibe. This isn’t a chaotic beer festival where you’re shouting over loud music and trying not to lose your friends. It’s calm, cozy, and social. You’ll see locals and visitors mingling, hopping from brewery to brewery, and soaking in the holiday magic without the shoulder‑to‑shoulder crowds.

And because you’re not limited to only punch‑card stops, you can easily pop into a restaurant for food, grab a glass of wine, or detour somewhere that catches your eye.

The girls share some tips to make the most of this festive event.

  1. Book a hotel in or near the historic district. Nothing kills the vibe faster than realizing you still have to drive after your third drink. St. Augustine is meant for wandering.
  2. Start early…like brunch early. Beat the crowds, and if possible, visit on a weekday. Weekends get busier the closer you get to Christmas.
  3. Make reservations. Restaurants are small and popular this time of year. If you do end up waiting, always have a roadie plan. (An airplane bottle of bourbon + hot tea = instant hot toddy.) But just remember, St. Augustine has strict open container laws, so roadie at your own risk!
  4. Drink with a view! Rooftops, patios, and anywhere you can admire the lights while holding a glass are always worth it.
  5. Skip the trolleys. Slow strolling through glowing streets with live music in the background is peak vacation energy…and lets you pivot to oysters, dessert, or another round whenever the mood strikes.

The girls wanted to experience Nights of Pints without the hassle of rideshares, traffic, or logistics, so they booked the St. Augustine Beer Bus. Game‑changer!!

It felt like a guided excursion that was fun, intentional, and slightly irresponsible in the best way. The girls brought snacks and roadies on the bus and hit multiple breweries in one day with the Boozy Bros and Chrissy’s original party people: her parents. The blondes also interviewed Beer Bus / St. Augustine Brewery Tours founder, Amanda Reed.

Their stops included all four Nights of Pints breweries and one bonus brewery:

Bootleggers
Bootleggers
Hornski’s
Dog Rose
Dog Rose
Ink & Barley
Ink & Barley
Ink & Barley
Bog

If you’re traveling with a group or just want a seamless, stress‑free bar crawl, a private or small‑group tour like this is absolutely worth it. Tune in to the episode to learn more about Amanda and St. Augustine Brewery Tours.

Nights of Pints runs alongside Nights of Lights and continues through January 11, 2026. If you’re reading this before then, there’s still time to experience it this season! But if not, don’t worry. It’s an annual event, so add it to your calendar for next year starting in late November.

Even outside of Nights of Pints, St. Augustine’s craft beer scene is reason enough to visit. The Boozy Blondes have multiple episodes featuring St. Augustine and its craft beer scene, so give them a listen! One of their first episodes (Episode 003 | St. Augustine Pub Pedal – listen here) covers many of the St. Augustine breweries. And Episode 062 | STA Brewer’s Fest + Behind the Booze Interview with Courtney Murr (listen here) highlights the annual St. Augustine Craft Brewers Festival, which is another must-see for craft beer lovers!

Between these episodes, the historic streets, great food, and endless bars, you might find yourself Googling “how to move to St. Augustine.” And if you’ve punched your Nights of Pints card, share a picture with the Boozy Blondes through Instagram or via email! Cheers!

Behind the Booze - Interviews, Season 4, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 093 | Behind the Booze: Interview with Randy Basile of Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery

The Boozy Blondes

Listen here!

This week on the Boozy Blondes Podcast, the girls are taking you back to paradise — Maui, Hawaii, where one of their absolute favorite spots sits high above the valley with sweeping views of the Pacific: Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery. This destination is more than a distillery; it’s an experience that combines breathtaking scenery, gourmet pairings, and world-class spirits.

The DOE was, of course, the Ocean Organic Espresso Martini. Blended with organic espresso and Ocean Organic Vodka, it’s smooth, frothy, and deliciously coffee-forward — no barista skills required. (Pro tip: add a splash of Lewbowski’s Kool-Luah from Episode 091 for an extra kick!)

During Molly’s visit, she and Rainer indulged in a three-course food-and-cocktail pairing featuring bao buns with sparkling lemongrass lemonade, white miso beef carpaccio paired with Maui Seventy-FY gin cocktails (a twist on a French 75), and coconut rum cheesecake bites with an espresso martini finale. Add in full-sized flatbreads, extra cocktails, and those jaw-dropping Maui views – Molly was instantly in love.

After the feast came the distillery tour. Their guide Alan escorted the group through sugarcane fields, past the solar-powered distillery, fermentation and bottling areas, and then hosted the tastings of Ocean’s seven signature spirits. Each spirit comes in a distinctive bottle, with the flagship Ocean Organic Vodka housed in its iconic blue sphere inspired by a Japanese fishing buoy and tilted at 23.5°, the same angle as Earth’s axis.

But Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery is more than great drinks and stunning views. It’s an operation deeply committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. And, according to TripAdvisor, Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery ranks in the top 10% of attractions worldwide!

Molly was lucky enough to sit down with Randy Basile, Ocean Vodka’s Sales Manager, who recently moved from Maui to the blondes’ own backyard in St. Augustine, Florida! Randy shared his journey with Ocean (eight years strong!), what makes their vodka and other spirits unique, the challenges and surprises of bringing Hawaiian products to Florida, and the environmental mission that drives everything Ocean does. He also gives the scoop on where to find Ocean products in Florida (Publix, Broudy’s, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, Shores, and even Total Wine) and beyond.

Whether you’re sipping an espresso martini at home, enjoying live music on Ocean’s lawn in Maui, or spotting those iconic blue bottles at your local shop, Ocean Vodka offers a taste of Hawaii wherever you are. Make sure to follow them on Instagram for event updates, beautiful cocktails, and breathtaking views!

Have you visited Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery? Did you love it as much as Molly? Tell the girls about your experience in the comments below! If you get the chance to visit in the future, say hi to Alan, Raul, and Jack, and tell them the Boozy Blondes sent you!

Season 4, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 090 | Disney Drinking: Magical Monorail Pub Crawl

The Boozy Blondes

The Boozy Blondes are bringing you another magical episode and this time they are including the Boozy Bros! The gang tackled a magical monorail pub crawl for Molly & Phil’s birthdays; this included stopping at bars in the Walt Disney World Monorail Resorts and as a bonus, they added the Wilderness Lodge, since they all love it there so much. Follow along and see how they attacked the challenge.

The DOE is a Dole Whip cocktail! In honor of the favorite Disney treat, Dole Whip, the gang is sucking up this delicious concoction as they recap their pub crawl journey. Molly blended Publix brand Banana Pineapple Lactose Free Ice Cream, pineapple juice and spiced rum to make the drinks.

Since there were four resorts on the adventure, each of the group members presented a resort:

Before they dive into their resorts, Molly explains the rules of a “Drink Roulette Poker” game the gang played at each stop:

  1. Each player earns one card at each lounge
  2. As a bonus, all four names go in one bag, and drink tokens, relative to each lounge, are in the other bag
    1. Bonus card: Whoever’s name is drawn, draws a drink token. If he or she orders and drinks that drink, a bonus card is awarded
    1. Bonus card: correctly predict monorail color
    1. Bonus card: other random challenges that pop up on the fly (e.g., how tall is the fireplace in the Wilderness Lodge lobby)
  3. Best poker hand wins at the end of the crawl
  4. Losing poker hand orders transportation back to home resort or hotel

In addition to the drink roulette poker challenge, the Boozy Blondes made wardrobe changes at each Resort! They had a scavenger hunt book to follow along with too, which made the visit extra fun!

Phil starts with the Wilderness Lodge, where the group visited two lounges: Geyser Point Bar & Grill and Territory Lounge. Geyser Point offers great views on the water. Here Phil drank a beer, Rainer ordered a tequila soda and the girls enjoyed Pineapple Mules. In the Territory Lounge Phil and Chrissy split a Smores Old Fashioned, Molly had the L&C G&T (lavender and cucumber gin and tonic) and Rainer sipped on a beer. The group highly recommends ordering the popcorn sampler if you’re enjoying drinks here!

When they wrapped up, the group boarded a boat and enjoyed a short ride to the Magic Kingdom, where they transferred to the Grand Floridian boat. Chrissy walks listeners through this resort, and it was extremely busy the day they were there. They put their name in at the Enchanted Rose (pro tip to put your name in because they don’t take reservations), and ran down to the quick service restaurant Gasparilla Island Grille to grab to-go drinks while they waited for their names to be called (technically, they waited for Molly’s phone to receive a text, which is nice, so visitors to this resort can enjoy it from any place on property while waiting for a callback). Once they were called, they collectively ordered Espresso Martinis and truffle fries!

From here, the Boozy Blondes and Bros took the “highway in the sky” to the Contemporary Resort. Molly introduces the Contemporary, one of two original Disney resorts! The group squeezed into the bar at Steakhouse 71, which is always a favorite. Although it was crowded, the group still enjoyed their drinks (a round of tequila sodas) and split the Stack Burger – another favorite! And bonus – the bartenders surprised the group with Champagne in honor of the birthday twins, Phil and Molly! (Pro tip – if you’re celebrating, ask for a pin! You’ll sometimes get to experience a little extra Disney magic – like complimentary Champagne.)

By this time, the Magic Kingdom fireworks had started, so the group boarded the monorail to the final destination, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Rainer walks listeners through this stop, highlighting all the lounges. He advises if you want to get a seat at the Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Speakeasy, get your name on the list early! Feeling the effects of the heat and drinks, the group decided to stop at only one lounge here, Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace, outside the back of the main lobby. You’ll typically find live music at this beautiful outdoor lounge. Rainer sipped on Reposado, Molly enjoyed Rosita’s Margarita, Chrissy loved her Spikey Pineapple (made with Dole Whip!) and Phil had the Mosquito Mojito. It was time for more food, so they shared a tuna roll (with pink rice!) and dumplings.

You’ll have to listen to the episode to hear who won the poker challenge! You can also hear the creative Disney-themed Fast Five questions they all ask each other! Be sure to check out their fun Disney reels on Instagram:
• See each lounge and corresponding drink
• Overview of the resorts
• Cheersing all their drinks with the Boozy Bros
• Hear the Boozy Blondes introduce each drink at each lounge as the evening progresses

Can’t get enough of Disney Drinking episodes? Check out Episode 016 | Epcot Food & Wine Festival and Episode 077 | Disney’s Sangria University! Do you have a favorite tip for Disney Drinking? Leave it in the comments below!

Season 4, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 089 | Italy – Rome, What to Drink, Eat and Do in the Eternal City

The Boozy Blondes

The Boozy Blondes are wrapping up their Season 4 Italy tour with an episode all about Rome! Are you planning a trip to the Eternal City? This episode will help you plan for some of the hot spots you don’t want to miss!

First things first – the DOE. Chrissy continues to try to warm Molly up to spritzes, but it’s not going so well. Molly reluctantly sips the Campari Spritz Chrissy made because, well, “when in Rome!”

If you’re traveling by plane to Rome, chances are you’re flying into Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport. From here you can take an Uber to train to your destination. The girls stayed in the neighborhood of Trastevere, and you can hear an episode dedicated to this beautiful community in Episode 088 (listen here!).

One must-see stop when in Rome is Vatican City. Its headquarters to the Roman Catholic Church and full of cultural, religious and historical significance. The girls toured the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Peter’s Square and the Sistine Chapel. Understandably so, Vatican City is a popular spot and gets extremely crowded with tourists. The girls planned for the crowds and booked the earliest tour possible through The Tour Guy for about $150 per person. This 3-hour tour included:

  • Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican
  • Pio-Clementino Museum, Gallery of the Candelabra, Tapestries and Maps
  • Raphael Rooms and School of Athens
  • Entry to the Sistine Chapel
  • Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica
  • A Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Max group size of 10

The girls highly recommend the tour, especially if it’s your first visit. There is so much to take in! One pro tip is to dress for the weather – much of the tour actually takes place outside, and the girls were not prepared for that! Other tips include:

  1. Go as early as you can to beat the largest crowds
  2. You are allowed to take pictures (no flash) everywhere except inside the Sistine Chapel
  3. Dress modestly – your shoulders and knees must be covered
  4. Bags are allowed but must be small backpacks or purses

Following your tour, there are cute restaurants close by where you can grab a cocktail (or espresso) before your next adventure! For the girls it was touring the Colosseum, but unfortunately due to the miserable weather, they skipped it. This is the tour they had booked again through The Tour Guy for you check out.

One of the best experiences the blondes had was renting e-bikes and exploring the Appian Way. Chrissy packed a picnic lunch for the group, and they took off from an e-bike rental store near Circus Maximus. Beware – there are no bike lanes, so navigating the traffic can be a little treacherous. Over the course of the ride, they stopped at:

  • Catacombe Di San Callisto – the catacombs here were built in the 2nd century around 150AD! The tour is about 10 Euros per person and lasts about 45 minutes
  • Appia Antica Caffe for spritzes and beer
  • Borghese Park
  • Church of Domine Quo Vadis – where Saint Peter was said to encounter Jesus when he initially fled Rome – you can see Jesus’ footprints here

The girls agree this was a great way to experience the Roman countryside and some history too! Having a picnic lunch alongside one of the oldest roads in the world was surreal! After biking the group enjoyed aperitivo at Da Etta and Freni e Frizioni (details in Episode 088), then had an amazing meal at Divin Ostilia Wine Bar.

Other must-sees in Rome are the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. You can listen to our Angels and Demons Pub Crawl episode (Episode 085) to get more details about those stops.

A few more tips as you plan your trip:

  1. Stop in random churches! They are full of history, art and faith, and breathtaking!
  2. Stop for aperitivo! It’s an Italian lifestyle – enjoy drinks and small snacks before dinner. Molly’s favorite was at the rooftop bar of FortySevenHotel.
  3. Beware of bathrooms – or lack of seats on toilets. BYOS! (Bring your own seat!)
  4. Make reservations in advance but leave some room for flexibility! Sometimes getting lost leads to the best adventures!
  5. If you can, add an extra day or two to your original plan – vacation goes by so fast. If you’re planning for 7 days, see if you can swing 10! Having downtime days is a blessing!

Is there a place in Rome you love that we didn’t mention? Share it with us in the comments below!

Season 4, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 088 | Italy: Trastevere

The Boozy Blondes

Bentornato lushes. In this episode the girls are taking you on a tour of the cutest neighborhood in Rome, Trastevere! The girls sip Italian wine as their DOE while they reminisce about the magic this place brings.

On their trip, the Boozy Blondes wanted to stay a little outside of the craziness of center-city Rome but still within walking distance, so they found an Air B&B (check it out here!) in Trastevere. Trastevere is a funky, bohemian area of Rome that clings to its centuries-old, working-class roots. It’s known for traditional and innovative trattorias, craft beer pubs and artisan shops. From the pre-dinner passeggiata until late, a young crowd buzzes around tiny Piazzas, and mosaic-filled churches, enjoying the area’s great restaurants, pubs and nightlife. This neighborhood provides the perfect blend of history, food and art!

Staying in Trastevere allowed the girls to explore on foot rather than booking ride shares. Here are some of the gems they found through their travels:

Freni e Frizioni | translates to: brakes and clutches; a fitting name considering the bar was once a mechanic shop! This bar is highly recommended by the Boozy Blondes. Chirssy got a taste of what their legendary bartenders could do when Riccardo Rossi and Manuel Di Cecco came to New Orleans for Tales of the Cocktail. (Check out the girls’ mini series on the podcast to hear more about that, starting with Episode 066!) Chrissy visited Freni e Frizioni twice while she was in Italy, spinning the drink wheel and sharing shots with Manuel on her visit. On her second visit, with Molly and the Boozy Bros, they all ordered the Un-Social, which was tequila, passion fruit, coconut & Sichuan liquer, Agavecito infused with coriander, citrus and grapefruit soda. The girls (and guys) still drink about this cocktail! Freni e Frizioni has been recognized by World’s 50 Best Bars and Anthony Bourdain! This place also offers a nice buffet for those enjoying cocktails inside.

Ristorante le Mani in Pasta | translates to: hands in pasta. This restaurant was directly across the street from the girls’ Air B&B door. So convenient! This place provides a real traditional-style trattoria experience. But make sure you have a reservation, this place is always packed! The second you step inside Le Mani in Pasta you’re wrapped up in a warm and informal atmosphere, typical of a Roman osteria.  And on the same note, the food here is delicious! They serve Roman cuisine as well as seafood, meat and pasta dishes from different Italian regions. All the dishes are of high quality and extremely fresh. Le Mani in Pasta makes it its mission to order fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, home-made pasta and cheese every day. This was another double-dip stop for Chrissy. She and Phil enjoyed dinner here so much, they went again when Molly and Rainer arrived in Rome! And they had the same server both times!

They had a wide selection of wine, and the prices were incredible – each bottle was under $30! As in most of Italy, you can get a killer bottle of wine for a fraction of what you’d pay in the States, and as good Boozy Blondes, the girls certainly made the most of it at Le Mani in Pasta. Chrissy had the Kressman Monopole on her first visit which is a white Bordeaux and Sauvignon Blanc blend. Molly ordered a bottle of St. Michael- Eppan Pinot Noir. But it didn’t stop there. The group ended up drinking 4 bottles between them all. (Randomly the group ran into friends from Florida, Lloyd and Lisa, who ended up joining them for dinner!) And the best part was they only had to stumble across the street to get home.

La Punta Expendio de Agave | Molly and Rainer found this great tequila bar just around the corner from their Air B&B. Walls inside are filled with tequilas up to the ceiling! They have a menus of specialty drinks, and Molly started with a classic Paloma and then the El Grtio which was mezcal, sage, lime and agave. Rainer had the best time choosing tequilas to drink neat. The food menu is small, but with a small menu, you know they really nail the items. They had street tacos, and fun fact, it was on Thanksgiving, so definitely the most unique Thanksgiving dinner they have shared – Thanksgiving at a Mexican bar in Italy.

Taverna Trilussa | This classic has been open since 1910, operating with the same motto: we don’t care who you are, the important thing is that in the end you have eaten and drunk more than well. This is the only thing that really matters. Pasta is served straight from the pan!

Jerry Thomas Bar Room | This tiny cocktail bar is everything a speakeasy should be, right down to the little password window in the door. You can check out the Boozy Blondes Reel on Instagram highlighting their visit.

You can learn more about this amazing bar in Episode 085 – Italy: Roman Angels & Demons Pub Crawl (listen here!) to hear the insider information about the world-renowned cocktails the girls tried at this speakeasy’s new location in Trastevere. Just know, the hand-crafted drinks are amazing, they gave the group (and the entire bar) shots and the team there was so welcoming!

Da Etta | Boasting “an all day venue open 7 days a week from 8 am to midnight,” Da Etta has anything and everything. Part breakfast, gastro pub, restaurant, cocktail bar, pastry shop, and wine cellar the possibilities are endless. You can enjoy the cozy atmosphere inside or the large outdoor terrace.

Settled in the shadow of Tiberina Island and historic Trastevere, this little gem was perfect for the group to visit. Located in Piazza Piscinula, it was a short walk from the Air B&B. Phil and Chrissy went there for wine and light bites one evening and then the group went back for beer, wine, and espresso after surviving our biking adventure. (You can here more about that in the upcoming Rome episode!) Check out all their locations here!

There is so much to explore in Trastevere; it’s one of those places with such an original charm that it’s almost impossible to explain. There’s so much to do, like concerts, food tours, pub crawls, and more. It’s close enough to the hustle and bustle of downtown Rome but still tucked away from the major touristy areas. The girls were able to absorb the culture and let the neighborhood guide them.

Have you been to Trastevere? Is there a place you’d recommend to the Boozy Blondes? Leave a comment below!

Season 4, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 087 | Italy: Wine Tour and Tasting Near Rome

The Boozy Blondes

Listen here!

Ciao, lushes! The Boozy Blondes are taking you back to Rome in this episode to give you all the details on a half-day wine tour they experienced just outside of the hustle and bustle of Rome. This episode takes you through beautiful countryside.

The DOE is a bottle of Pecorino, a light-skinned white Italian wine grape variety that grows in Italy’s eastern wine-growing regions. It’s similar to a Sauvignon Blanc.

During the girls’ stay in Rome, they knew they wanted to take an excursion, and they found this Half Day Rome Wine Tour with Convivio Rome just outside the city. This tour is managed by the sweetest couple, Sally and Guido, who, spoiler alert, turned out to be the most amazing hosts the girls could have asked for!

This tour included a drive through the beautiful countryside on the way to visit the local winery, where the girls enjoyed a tour and sampled (3) different wines with a light snack. It also included a visit to Sally and Guido’s home complete with other quality local wines and an amazing spread of food they had prepared, while overlooking a spectacular view. There was even a medieval village down the mountain from their home!

That’s the overview – here are the steps to take and expect if you want to enjoy this beautiful day:

  1. Take the train to Fara Sabina. Sally and Guido will send you all the details so you know which station to leave from and where you need to go. Remember: when you’re taking the train in Italy, and you buy your tickets at the station, you need to get your ticket validated BEFORE you board.
    — Pro tip when traveling to the Fara Sabina station:
    Buy provisions before you go or bring them with you. There is one shop outside the station in Fara Sabina, and you can get an espresso or pastry, but you can bring whatever you want to eat or drink on the train. Yes, that includes your boozy libations.
  2. Once you get to Fara Sabina, Sally and Guido will pick you up in a passenger van. From here they drive you through the beautiful countryside to the winery.
  3. At the winery, you experience a behind-the-scenes tour of production and bottling, and you get to see the barrel room! After the tour, you gather in the main room. Just off this room is a giant deck which overlooks the vineyards and the Roman countryside – so incredibly beautiful.
  4. In the main room you sample some wines and enjoy some snacks! At this point, you can purchase any bottles you like.
  5. From here, pile back into the van and head to Sally and Guido’s home! The hospitality they showed the Boozy Blondes was so genuine and heartfelt, like the girls were old friends rather than tourists. More wine is served along with a delicious selection of light bites.
  6. After taking in the views, enjoying each other’s company, and wine, of course, Guido drives you back to the train station.

Sally and Guido have been hosting this tour for over a decade, and they have it nailed down to a science. They also host cooking classes, cooking holidays and olive oil tours. They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the wines, food, culture, landscape and more, we can’t begin to give this experience justice by trying to describe it to you.

Be sure to follow them on Instagram, and follow links at the top of this blog to see all they offer! You can see the Boozy Blondes’ Instagram reel from the day here. The girls give the Half Day Rome Wine Tour their stamp of approval. If you embark on this beautiful day, be sure to tell Sally and Guido the Boozy Blondes sent you! Salute!

6-Pack To Go, Season 4, Travel - Where to Drink

Episode 086 | 6 Pack To-Go Series: Favorite New Orleans Bars w/ Amber Gunn of Hop Around Nola

The Boozy Blondes

Grab your 6-packs, lushes! It’s that time again – and today we’re filling them with the best bars in New Orleans, Louisiana, better known as NOLA. The Boozy Blondes chat with Amber Gunn of Hop Around Nola, who is a true expert when it comes to the New Orleans scene, especially where to get a good drink.

Amber fills her 6-pack and then the Boozy Blondes take a stab at it – and ask Amber to grade it. So tune in to see how they do!

As for Amber’s 6-pack, these are the places you need to go in New Orleans:

  1. Barrel Proof | Amber’s favorite neighborhood dive bar – “a margarita bar with a whiskey problem.” If you are looking for a bar offering an impressive variety of whiskeys and bourbon, make this place a stop on your visit! Amber claims you can get the best margarita in the city here too! And if you go on a Friday night, there is a good chance you’ll see Amber there!
  2. Chandelier Bar | This is located in the Four Seasons Hotel downtown (The Boozy Blondes actually mention this bar in Episode 059 | New Orleans, Part 1 – Jazz Parade – listen here!) – serving amazing classic cocktails and specialty cocktails by some of the best bartenders in the city!
  3. Carousel Bar | Located in Hotel Monteleone, this bar actually rotates! It takes 15 minutes to make a complete rotation. Serving great cocktails – Amber’s is the French 75 – and she recommends waiting for a seat at the bar for the full experience.
  4. Cure | This bar has a little upscale feeling with unique cocktails! Pro tip – order the deviled eggs! Fun fact – this is where Amber and Chrissy met for the first time in real life!
  5. Pigeon and Whale | This is more of a restaurant than bar, but they are serving up amazing cocktails – including the best espresso martini in the city! They also specialize in Negronis. This is also a great place to get oysters.
  6. Pepp’s Pub | This is a dive, dog bar with incredible margaritas. Very laid back and a perfect place for dog owners to bring their pups! And if you want to try Malört, they will take your picture while you try it and add your description of this scary spirit to the bottom of the photo!

The Boozy Blondes share their 6-packs with Amber, and are very proud that they matched two of her bars! But you have to listen to hear their grades!

Molly’s 6-pack:
• Bacchanals Wine
• Chandelier Bar
• Carousel Bar
• Davenport Lounge
• Mahogany Jazz Hall
• Lafitte’s

Chrissy’s 6-pack:
• Lafitte’s
• Apple Barrel Bar
• Mahogany Jazz Hall
• Polo Club Lounge
• Carousel Bar
• Bacchanals Wine

Be sure to follow Amber on Instagram for more great NOLA content and send the Boozy Blondes a message with your favorite NOLA bars! Also…you can hear more about great New Orleans places in Episodes 059, 060, and 061!