South Africa

Chocolate Devotion: Visit South Africa with This Chocolate Cocktail

South Africa is one of my favorite places in the world. And since we’re quarantined and not traveling, I thought I’d visit The Motherland in my imagination…through a cocktail, of course. Enter the “Chocolate Devotion.”

The recipe below makes one cocktail.

Ingredients:

Chocolate Syrup:

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup water

  • i cup cacao powder

Cocktail:

  • 1/4 cup vodka

  • 1/4 cup Amarula

  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup

  • 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. For your chocolate syrup, mix the sugar and cacao powder in a saucepan on low heat. Then add water and still continuously for about five minutes. Let cool before using for the cocktail.

  2. Pour enough cacao powder on a plate or flat surface to lightly cover it. Set it aside.

  3. Once the chocolate syrup has cooled, spread some on a plate or flat surface and dip the rim of your cup. Then dip your cup in the cacao powder to cover the rim.

  4. Next, add all cocktail ingredients to a cocktail shaker already filled with ice. Shake vigorously until thoroughly mixed.

  5. Pour contents of the shaker into your glass.

  6. Garnish with mint and enjoy!

This cocktail is the chocolate lover’s dream. I know chocolate cocktails aren’t for everyone, but this one is delicious. Trust me. And try adding a splash of peppermint liqueur or creme de menthe if you like for even more flavor. Cheers!

Want to learn more about Amarula? Click here. There’s another cocktail inside too!

Where Am I Headed in 2018?

On my 2016 travel wish list, there was Napa Valley, Colombia, London and Thailand. While I went to other places too, I ended up in San Francisco (kind of close to Napa Valley) and Colombia. My 2017 travel wish list consisted of Ghana, Miami, Canada, and Cuba. In 2017, I went to Ghana, Miami, Vancouver, and more. There's no denying that my theory works! Put it out in the universe and it will come to you. This year is no different. I've thought long and hard about what travel goals I want to accomplish in 2018 so here we go!

Confirmed Travel

I don't have any. LOL. I have no flights booked. None. Nada. Not a single one. Shocking, I know. I have a few personal things going on right now and my schedule is a bit uncertain. So I've intentionally not made official travel plans. But don't get it twisted. Travel will definitely occur. Lots and lots of travel!

Wish List
(in no particular order)

Los Angeles

I visited LA in 2016 after road tripping from San Francisco and loved it so much. Beaches, warm weather, and laid back vibes...all things that make me a happy Ashlee. I'm putting this on my wish list because I want (read: need) to go back sooner rather than later.

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Budapest and/or Croatia

Both of these places have been in my thoughts for years. YEARS. I hear they are beautiful countries, with amazing architecture, history and nightlife, all things I love to explore when visiting a new destination.

Budapest Photo Credit: Lonely Planet

Budapest
Photo Credit: Lonely Planet

Thailand

It's high time I get to Asia. Seriously. I'm not sure what's taken me so long, but I definitely need to get to Asia soon and what better place than fan favorite, Thailand? I put it on my wish list for 2015 travel, but everyone and their mother booked trips over the last few years which was a bit of a deterrant for me. Still, everyone who goes to Thailand seems to love it so I'm sure I'll be no different. 

Photo Credit: Kuoni Travel

Photo Credit: Kuoni Travel

Spain

Spain seems to be one of those countries that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime. Art, history, city life, and amazing food are amongst the great things I've heard about Spain. I'd also like to visit a few of its islands, including Ibiza, San Sebastián, and Valencia. 

Photo Credit: Condé Nast Traveler

Photo Credit: Condé Nast Traveler

Sri Lanka

This one may be a little far fetched but I am putting it out there in hopes I can actually make it happen! I've heard this island country is beautiful, with tons of wildlife and amazing beaches. And because it's a gateway to Southeast Asia, there are a few other countries I can visit before or after.

Photo Credit: RIU

Photo Credit: RIU

South Africa

Because I can always go back. Again, again and again!

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What places are on your 2018 list? Start thinking and planning!