It’s hard to resist a snack or a drink when you board a plane.
After all, as well as preparing for a long journey, it’s a natural part of getting in the holiday mood for many. But, according to a travel expert, there’s one drink people should avoid, and there are reasons why.
Pauline Martin Rodriguez, cocktail expert and bartending consultant at DrinksWorld, said there’s a popular drink many people turn to, but it could do people more harm than good while travelling.
According to the expert, videos have gone viral online showing people how to prepare their own espresso martini on a plane, and they’re racking up thousands of views.
But, even though many of us enjoy a drink mid-flight to calm nerves or make the time pass by a little quicker, this drink may not be a good option. While it might seem like the perfect travel companion, Pauline said you should think twice before ordering an espresso martini in the sky.
Pauline said: “Videos on TikTok have gone viral as bartenders perfect their in-flight espresso martini combining vodka and coffee. But it’s a recipe for disaster.
“Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it dehydrates the body. Combine this with the natural dehydrating effects of flying, low humidity and cabin pressure, and you’re asking for headaches, fatigue and even skin dryness.
“Coffee is another diuretic, which means you’re losing even more water. Not to mention, the stimulating effects of caffeine mixed with the depressant properties of alcohol will leave your body feeling confused and fatigued.
“That’s not to say you can’t enjoy an alcoholic beverage on the plane but try to stick to pure and simple spirits like a vodka or scotch on the rocks with water on the side. You’ll stay more hydrated and avoid the sugar and carbonation from mixers that can play havoc with your digestion.”
The expert said white wine is another “safe” option as it’s generally lower in alcohol and sugar compared to beer and red wine. There’s also high altitude wines, like those from Chile, which are crafted to taste better high up in the sky as they’re more resistant to palate changes in the air.
She added: “If you want to give alcohol a miss, but still enjoy a drink that tastes great in the sky, opt for tomato juice or a Bloody Mary. Research from Robin Dando, a physiologist at Cornell University found that loud noises (like that of a plane engine) dull sweet and salty flavours, but enhance umami which means tomato juice tastes richer and more appealing!
“Don’t forget, moderation is key. So stay hydrated and try alternating alcoholic drinks with water. That way, you’ll land feeling fresh and not fatigued.”
