4 destinations to embrace the holiday spirit (rum)

Stunning white sandy beaches, clear crystal blue waters – what better way to relax and get into the holiday spirit…..by getting into the holiday spirits!  As well as the stunning scenery, first class service, idyllic views some of our favourite island destinations seem to have one thing in common – their love of rum! Here are some highlights of where to enjoy the best rum tours on your travels and get the party started: Barbados Reputed to be the birthplace of rum, Barbados is home to one of the world’s finest rums and the Mount Gay distillery, set up in 1703, is certainly not to be missed.  Learn how this most celebrated rum is ingrained in all aspects of the island’s culture and how it is made including its fascinating traditional processes with a tour and tasting experience.  And of course, buying and drinking lots of rum (purely for tasting purposes) along with some delicious Bajan cuisine is also highly recommended! Jamaica Home to the authentic Jamaican rum, Appleton Estates provides great tours and rum tasting and visitors can see how the unique terroir of the island helps give this famed spirit its unique blend of flavours. Mauritius For a twist venture outside the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean where the island of Mauritius offers a great tour of its ecological and high quality rum at Rhumerie  de Chamarel.  Visitors can see the individual process take place between its main season of June to November with, of course, an opportunity taste the rum.  Guests of the Shanti Maurice Resort can enjoy a true Mauritian bar experience at the property’s own rum shed. Seychelles The island is home to Takamaka Bay rum which is based on a family recipe of the owners’ grandfather.  Take a visit to the traditional plantation – La Plaine St Andre – where you can take an expert guided tour of the operating distillery as well as enjoy food and cocktails in the restaurant. Easy to see how these party loving islands get their inspiration and to get the party started here’s a list of some of the best places around the world to enjoy some of the best rum cocktails on your travels!

• Cuba Libre – Cuba
• Dark and Stormy – Bermuda
• Pina Colada – Puerto Rico
• Pain Killer – The BVIs
• Mojito – Cuba
• Calabash Rum Cocktail – Grenada
• Planters Punch – Jamaica

Is your favourite rum cocktail missing?  Know a great place for rum?  Let us know in the comments below. *Disclaimer: please do drink responsibly to enjoy the best of your holiday! Diana Cherry is Director of Operations at Oxford Private Travel. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.