The Singapore Sling

I have never been much of a drinker, and now that I am older, I am less inclined to drink "girly," sweet drinks like cocktails. I'm more of a Chardonnay or vodka tonic kind of person. However, when you're in Singapore, you have to try the city's signature drink: the Singapore Sling.

Supposedly the drink was invented at the Raffles Hotel in the 19th century, as a refreshment to counter the terrible heat and humidity of the tropical city. Of course, the hotel has capitalized on this history as a magnet for tourists. In the gift shop, you can buy Singapore Sling mix and even a special Raffles glass to make it in!

We drank our slings in the courtyard bar at Raffles, as it was twilight and a very nice, warm-but-not-hot temperature. The pink drink comes garnished with a wedge of pineapple and one maraschino cherry, and the hotel is kind enough to give you a tiny plate for the rind and stem. Additionally, they bring you a small dish of spicy-coated nuts, which are quite delicious.

Of course, this all comes at a price. With tax and the service charge, each sling cost $30 Singapore, which is $180 HK. I'd say it is definitely the most expensive drink I've ever had, but as they say, when in Rome, or in this case, Singapore!