Latest news with #CampariSpritz
Spectator
21 hours ago
- Spectator
The myth of the relaxing beach holiday
Picture the scene: you're on a sun-drenched tropical island surrounded by azure waters and dazzling white sand. A lone palm tree casts shadows across your lover's bronzed skin as you sip an ice-cold Campari Spritz. It's a scene pictured a million times a day on Instagram feeds and the biggest holiday cliché of them all. But does the reality of an exotic island paradise live up to the fantasy peddled by popular TV shows such as White Lotus? T.S. Eliot wrote that 'humankind cannot bear very much reality'. I would argue that humankind cannot bear very much fantasy either. Yes, turquoise oceans, sugar-white sand and tropical flora are all pleasing to the eye, but are they enough to sustain one's interest for an entire week, let alone two? It's depressing how quickly we acclimatise to even our wildest fantasies. If, like me, you find lounging on a sunlounger for hours on end mind-numbing in the extreme, it doesn't really matter how gorgeous the sand is or whether the ocean is of the deepest hue, you're still essentially lying around doing nothing – something you could just as easily do in Felixstowe and for a fraction of the price. Moreover, in the tropics all that nothingness is done in sweltering 35°C heat with a billion grains of sand pricking your sunburnt skin while swarms of mosquitoes suck the blood from your dehydrated ankles. It's hardly my idea of paradisiacal bliss, especially when you consider how much you'll pay for the privilege. Maybe it's true that only boring people get bored, but being bored and uncomfortable is surely no way to spend those precious two weeks away. Another issue for me is the authenticity of some of the more remote and exclusive islands. In an effort to live up to guests' Robinson Crusoe fantasies, the five-star hotels that largely dominate the more inaccessible islands often feel they must engineer the experience to such an extent that you may as well be on a cruise ship. Nothing is left to chance and every square foot of sand is carefully prinked and preened for the delectation of the billionaire class. And as with cruise ships, once you're on there's no getting off. But it's the promise of unimaginable luxury that keeps the yacht-owning contingency coming back for more. In 2021 Waldorf Astoria, part of the Hilton Group, took over the tiny island of Platte in the Seychelles and turned what had once been a small coconut plantation into a playground for the super-rich. The 0.8-mile stretch of land is so remote you have to take one of those hair-raisingly noisy propeller planes from the capital Mahé. Guests are then greeted by beaming members of staff doing their best to appear thrilled to see you. Each £12,000-a-night family villa has its own butler and an immaculately groomed garden with private pool – think Dubai but without the skyscrapers. Even the palm trees had to be specially imported to give the place just the right desert island vibe. Other than burning to a crisp, activities on these isolated outposts are somewhat limited – no ancient ruins or quaint markets to tickle the senses – so in order to give shade-dwellers something to do, the hotel chains have all landed on the same set of 'experiences' (travel agent-speak for getting off your arse). Like Platte, the minuscule Lhaviyani Atoll in the Maldives is dominated by a single five-star hotel, Le Méridien, part of Marriott International. And as is the case with so many of these island retreats, extra-curricular activities include eating, drinking, snorkelling and… turtles. Unfortunately, in 2016 a survey indicated that more than 60 per cent of the Maldives coral had been affected by bleaching, a phenomenon often linked to pollution and rising sea levels. As a result, the reef is no longer a thing of vibrant beauty. When you consider that snorkelling is the primary draw for many visitors it seems somewhat remiss not to consider this before booking. Platte has brought the whole turtle experience back to shore by notifying guests whenever a pregnant female shuffles onto the island to lay eggs. Fascinating though it is to watch these creatures give birth, it can feel a little voyeuristic. When it comes to getting away from it all, these sanitised versions of paradise are all very well, but for me the perfect example of heaven on earth is that rugged, deserted beauty that Tom Hanks landed on after his plane crashed in the movie Castaway. Surely the real appeal of these inaccessible slices of wondrousness is their raw, untapped beauty unsullied by human design and hordes of sweaty Instagrammers? How thrilling to find oneself grappling with raw, unforgiving nature, utterly adrift with only seabirds for company. Now that's what I call an experience.
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Destination X reveals savage ‘sabotage' twist as player handed game-changing advantage ahead of brutal cliffhanger
DESTINATION X unveiled a brutal 'sabotage' twist - with one player receiving a huge advantage amid a savage cliffhanger. The BBC programme sees a group of strangers try to figure out where they are in Europe through a series of clues in a bid to win £100,000. 5 Viewers have been gripped by new competition series Destination X Credit: BBC 5 Host Rob Brydon revealed a game-changing twist to one player Credit: BBC 5 Josh received massive power within the competitive game Credit: BBC Contestants will try any tactic to win and the latest episode saw one given a massive advantage. The players balance champagne glasses on a tray - while answering tough questions about their opponents. Josh, a 26-year-old pilot, emerged as the victor and soon learned of a huge twist. Host Rob Brydon privately informed Josh that he would have the power to sabotage a rival. Elimination occurs when the line-up place their 'X' markers based on where they believe themselves to be. Josh received the ability to move someone's 'X' by 250km, which could effectively ensure their exit. Reacting to the game-changing news, he said: "I feel like I've got a lot of influence on the game, which I like having." Josh also didn't have to take part in the next challenge - but got to see a big clue alongside the winners. Elsewhere, he identified fellow players Nick, Judith and Claire as potential targets for sabotage. Although Josh seemingly planned to choose Nick, viewers will have to learn the outcome. Destination X viewers slam show for being 'too easy' after they guess location - as contestant makes huge clue blunder This episode ended on a tense cliffhanger - with Rob having dropped a huge bombshell. Namely, that the bottom two players' X markers were only 600 metres apart. One viewer wrote online: "The sabotage is not fair." Another remarked: "Sorry but why did Josh get to win a ridiculously overpowered advantage AND get the winning clue just from the standard side game??" Whether Nick - who was identified by the others as the biggest threat - has his exit sealed or survives to play on remains to be seen. Viewers will also have to wait to discover where exactly the latest Destination X is. Players and fans alike seem to agree it's Italy, but are divided on the precise spot. One person wrote on X: "They're defo on the south of Italy near Sicily." Another penned: "Changed me mind, Italy, Venice?" A third chimed in: "Donatella Versace. That drink looks like a Campari Spritz. Milan?" Destination X continues on BBC One and iPlayer. 5 Josh had a big decision to make Credit: BBC
Forbes
25-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Supercharge Your Spritz: Best New Aperitifs And NA Alternatives For National Spritz Day
Summer may be winding down, but the thirst for a good spritz? Not even close. I'm a devoted Campari Spritz drinker (with a lemon wedge and hold the soda water, please!). But I'll happily flirt with new versions of my go-to hot weather sipper, especially non-alcoholic versions for when I'm on mom duty at the pool. And since National Spritz Day is upon us—in August, no less, as if I haven't been spritzing since the weather app cracked 55 degrees—now is the time to fall down the fizzy rabbit hole. Get ready to meet some unexpected aperitifs and handcrafted bitters that might just bump your go-to off its pedestal, discover my favorite canned non-alcoholic spritzes, picnic-friendly bottled spritzes and even one for the cannabis-curious. Fun Alternatives for Your Spritz Cocktail Spritz riffs abound with L'Apero les Trois fruit-infused aperitifs. L'Apero Les Trois – Homestead Quince A vermouth in a spritz? Based in Northern California, L'Apero les Trois infuses Berryessa Gap Vineyards wine with herbs and local fruits and nuts, like apricots, black mission figs and black walnuts. But it is their Homestead Quince aperitif that really intrigued me in my spritz research. 'Quince absorbs the flavor of whatever it's combined with,' says co-creator, chef and food writer Georgeanne Brennan. 'Combined here with Chardonnay, the result is a delicate, faint honey flavor which produces a light, yet elegant and slightly exotic spritz.' This small-batch vermouth isn't just for sipping straight. it's a sophisticated low-alcohol base for a more 'indie', nuanced spritz. Next up, I'll be making spritzes with the Black Mission Fig vermouth. Handshake Persian bitters from Portland, Maine. Rooted in Persian heritage and Portland's vibrant food scene, Handshake Bitters is part digestif, part storybook. Founder Shahin Khojastehzad, formerly of the craft beer world, incorporates over 29 globetrotting botanicals—like saffron, sumac, black fermented limes, Maine hops, and spruce tips. Traditionally sipped after meals, this digestif also works well for making big, bold spritzes. Rich, layered, and made with intention, Handshake is a modern bitter with old-world soul. Rue de Rêve Rouge. Rue de Rêve Rouge is a wine-based twist on classic red bitter liqueurs. Built on organic red wine and grape brandy, it's infused with tart fruit, earthy herbs, and artemisia douglasiana (aka the 'dream plant'), giving it that signature amaro-like edge. It hits those familiar bitter-sweet notes with balance and elegance — no artificial dyes, no syrupy finish. Just add soda or prosecco and an orange or lemon twist, and you've got a spritz that feels refined, adventurous, and unmistakably West Coast. It's aperitivo hour, but with Golden State vibes. Sarti Rose is the new go-to spritz star across the pond. If Barbie had an aperitif, this would be it. Sarti Rosa is the hot-pink sip lighting up Paris and London terraces this summer — and for good reason. Think of it as Aperol's flirtier, fruitier cousin: made with Sicilian blood orange, passionfruit, and mango, it's juicier and sweeter, but still totally spritz-worthy. The real showstopper? That electric pink hue turns any wine glass into instant eye candy. Sadly, it's still hard to find in the U.S., so if you're reading this abroad, drink up… I'm jealous. Free Spirits' Milano is a stellar non-alcoholic red bitter drink, perfect to add to soda or even ... More sparkling wine if you want to keep your outing out low alcohol. The Spirit of Aperitivo Milano by The Free Spirits Company is one of the few non-alcoholic spirits that actually delivers. Yes, I can verify it actually tastes like my beloved Campari (more so than tasting like Aperol). Made through a process called 'distillate reconstruction', it layers real botanicals—bitter orange, rhubarb, clove, cinnamon—into a bright, bittersweet pour with real depth and structure. And even better? It's has vitamins in it! The non-alcoholic red bitter drink has B3, B6, and B12 to support energy and mood. Mix it with grapefruit soda and it's refreshing and, most importantly. satisfying. Non-Alcoholic Spritzes (canned) If Aperol or Campari Spritz had a wellness-obsessed Gen Z cousin, this would be it. De Soi's Spritz Italiano, co-founded by Katy Perry (yes, that Katy, the same one who sings well and launched Peeps shoes), serves up a bittersweet, citrusy punch that feels way fancier than anything that comes from a can. The blend of white grape, earthy gentian root, and a whisper of orange peel hits all the aperitivo notes, without the alcohol. Bonus: the calming adaptogens actually do mellow your mood. It's perfect for a golden hour hang when you want to feel a little buzzy without, well, the groggy morning after. Lyre's has several spritz variations to bring to your next soiree. Close your eyes, take a sip, and you're basically on a balcony in Positano. Lyre's Amalfi Spritz manages to capture that iconic coastal Italian aperitivo moment — all without the booze. It's bright, a little bitter, and just sweet enough, with those classic orange and herbal notes in the backdrop. Serve it super chilled with a slice of orange and you've got yourself an instant getaway in a can. It's your spritz… minus the need-a-nap-after-brunch territory. TCH-infused spritzes by Artet. Yes, It's a thing. Artet's Spritz Party Pack is like a grown-up goodie bag: THC-infused (but only 2.5mg), amaro-inspired, and refreshingly complex. Each can brings a unique vibe, from Mango Ginger and Strawberry Basil to Chamomile Lemon. Whether you're canna-curious or a seasoned microdoser, Artet may be the just what the party ordered. (And no, it does not taste like you're smoking a joint.) Bottled Spritzes Chandon Garden Spritz in a bottle! Who knew life could be this wonderful. Come to the party with a ready-made spritz in a swanky bottle and you've already scored major social points for originality. CHANDON Garden Spritz offers the chance to do just that. Blending sparkling wine with a house-made bitters infused with macerated Valencia oranges, herbs, and spices, it's refreshingly dry and complex. Just pour over ice, garnish with rosemary and a slice of dried orange, and you've got a bar-worthy spritz in seconds—no bartender needed. It makes a great affordable host or hostess gift, too. Fabrizia's bottled Limoncello Spritz is a ready-to-serve cocktail that delivers true Italian refreshment with zero fuss. Made with just three clean ingredients—premium Italian sparkling wine, Fabrizia's own all-natural limoncello (crafted from Sicilian lemons), and soda water—it's bright, balanced, and unmistakably amore. With 10% ABV, it's strong enough to stand on its own, yet light and breezy enough for any warm-weather, all-day gathering. Unscrew the cap, pour over ice, and you've got a sophisticated spritz—no measuring, no shaking, and no shortcuts on flavor.
Local Italy
10-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Local Italy
La Bella Vita: Italy's beach opening dates and what time do Italians eat dinner?
La Bella Vita is our regular look at the real culture of Italy – from language to cuisine, manners to art. This newsletter is published weekly and you can receive it directly to your inbox, by going to newsletter preferences in 'My Account' or following the instructions in the newsletter box below. As much of Italy prepares for a wet May, beach lovers across the peninsula will be dreaming of the moment when they finally can put on their costumi and ciabatte and dip their toes in the sea. But before you head off to the seaside, it's worth knowing that there are rules governing when the summer beach season can officially start. While you can visit Italy's public beaches at any time, nearly 70 percent of the country's coastline is given over to privately managed beach clubs, and the dates these can open on are strictly controlled by regional - and sometimes local - authorities. Here's a breakdown of when Italy's private beaches will open and close this year by region. What time is dinner time in Italy? If you've spent many summer evenings here, you'll probably say 'very late'. But like so many other things in Italy, it really depends on which part of the country you're in and even the time of year. If you're planning to book a restaurant or want to invite your Italian friends or neighbours over for dinner, here's a look at what time la cena is normally eaten in different parts of the boot. From Aperol and Campari Spritz to Negroni and Bellini, Italy's iconic aperitivo drinks and cocktails are known and appreciated around the world. But if you're looking for an alcohol-free alternative for when aperitivo hour rolls around, there's no need to resort to sugary soft drinks: Italy has plenty of more adult-tasting options on offer. One of the most popular is Crodino, which is said to have been created as a non-alcoholic alternative to Aperol Spritz. With the same bright orange colour and zesty herbal taste as its alcoholic counterpart, it's typically served over ice cubes and with a slice of orange. Find out about other popular Italian alcohol-free aperitivo drinks in the article below. Is there an aspect of the Italian way of life you'd like to see us write more about on The Local? Please email me at news@
