Tag: Spritz

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 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 085 | Italy: Roman Angels & Demons Pub Crawl

The Boozy Blondes

Listen here!

Whether you’re feeling angelic or sinful, this episode is for you. The Boozy Blondes embark on a full day of bar-hopping and sightseeing around the Eternal City at places referenced in Dan Brown’s popular thriller (and movie starring Tom Hanks), Angels & Demons!

The DOE is a Select spritz – the national drink of Italy!

If you’re not familiar with Angels & Demons, it’s a great read (and as mentioned, available to watch in about 2 hours) – and the references in this episode might make a little more sense. Regardless, these stops will not disappoint – Angels & Demons fan or not! In the story, the main character follows “The Path of Illumination.” In this episode, the girls follow “The Path of Intoxication!”

The first stop actually isn’t boozy, but it’s worth mentioning. Tattoos at Bad Church Tattoo in Trastevere. In Angels & Demons, some of the characters get branded, so why not really get into character…and drag the Boozy Bros with them! While lifelong ink might not be everyone’s souvenir choice, if you are looking to get a tattoo abroad, the girls list off some pro-tips:

  • Make reservations online
  • Go early so it doesn’t slow down your day.
  • Email your art ahead of time in case of language barrier.
  • Bring cash.

If you want to see behind the scenes at Bad Church Tattoo, check out the Boozy Blondes’ Instagram Reel.

From here the girls traveled to Piazza del Popolo on the north end of the city to Angolo degli Artisti. Piazza del Popolo is the largest square in Rome and an iconic site in the book. The girls loved this restaurant; they were seated outside looking across the square and enjoyed spritzes, pizza and charcuterie…adding limoncello shots to wrap up the meal.

From here, the girls crossed the square and wandered up some steps to Terrazza del Pincio. This public park offers sprawling views of the city and is one of the best places to see the sunset in Rome. Since it was early in the day, there was no sunset, but the girls still captured some beautiful pictures overlooking Piazza del Popolo!

Next, the girls headed south to see the Spanish Steps and grab espresso at Don Nino. The Spanish Steps aren’t in the book, but an iconic (and super busy) spot in Rome. Don Nino is a traditional pâtisserie chain in Rome where Chrissy had stopped just days earlier to recreate the Audrey Hepburn scene in Roman Holiday.

Next stop was the Trevi Fountain, but the girls didn’t wait in line to throw in coins. Go early! The line stretches pretty far! The girls moved on past the Trevi Fountain and around the corner to Baccano for cocktails and appetizers. The girls were seated outside along the street and absorbed the bustling ambiance will sipping spritzes and enjoying carpaccio and tartare. It was about a month before Christmas and Baccano nailed it with the decorations – it was beautiful!

From Baccano, the blondes traveled to the Pantheon. While there are different options for tours, the girls chose a self-guided one. Major Pro Tip and time saver – there’s a cash-only line at the Pantheon where there’s rarely a line, and it’s only 5 euros to get in. Make sure to find the line farthest to the left.

After spending some time soaking up the ancient history at the Pantheon, the Boozy Blondes made their way to Piazza Navona, another plaza hosting an iconic scene from Angels & Demons. While it’s only a 4-minute walk to here from the Pantheon, there are beautiful churches lining the way that the girls highly recommend you visit. The combination of history, art and faith is not to be missed in these stunning structures.

Just around the corner from Piazza Navona is a great wine bar and deli, I Pizzicaroli. Here the girls enjoyed a bottle of wine and drooled over the giant charcuterie boards. The girls found there way back here later on to grab another bottle for the road!

The final stop on the Angels & Demons tour was Castillo San Angelo. While the girls didn’t go in, you can tour Castillo San Angelo for around $20. This is basically where Angels & Demons ends, so it was the perfect finale to the day. It’s a 20 minute walk to here from I Pizzicaroli, but feeling the effects of “The Path of Intoxication” it took the Boozy Blondes way longer than that! They stopped for espresso, gelato, shopping and provisions, and enjoyed some wine overlooking Castillo San Angelo from across the river.

Technically the Angels & Demons tour ended here, but the girls had one more stop on their list: Jerry Thomas Speakeasy, frequently named one of the best 50 bars in the world! The girls found their way to the Jerry Thomas Bar Room, which is a new edition and location for the famous speakeasy. The speakeasy is just a few blocks from I Pizzicaroli, while the bar room is across the Tiber River back in Trastevere where the girls were staying. If you’d like a sneak peek inside the bar room, watch the Boozy Blondes’ reel highlighting this spot. If you want the password, you can find it on the website.

The itinerary for this day was definitely aggressive, and credit is due to Chrissy for mapping out this amazing tour. If you want a more guided, all-inclusive experience that involves little to no planning on your part, they’re out there. Reputable groups like GetYourGuide and Viator had a few different Angels & Demons tours available at the time of this recording.

You can see the Boozy Blondes’ reel highlighting this pub crawl on their Instagram. If you’d like a map with details of the Boozy Blondes Angels & Demons Pub Crawl Tour, send them a message, and they will send you their custom plan. And remember, whether you’re feeling angelic or sinful (or both, like the young Boozy Blonde Chrissy in this picture), this day is sure to be fun! Cheers!