While this trip was primarily concerned with baseball (driving to and attending games did indeed take up most of our time), we were still able to see some of the cities we visited. Since we’re both hungry beer nerds, we focused mainly on eating and drinking the best food and beer we could find. With the help of recommendations by local friends, I think we did a pretty good job of that.
You would be forgiven for thinking that Guatemala isn’t exactly a craft beer destination. I certainly didn’t expect much. After arriving, I did what I always do when I move to a new place: I worked my way through the local beer selection. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of craft options. Even the national mass-produced lager was solid.
Antigua (not to be confused with the island) was the Spanish colonial capital until 1773, when an earthquake damaged many of the since-restored structures. Before traveling to the country, I asked a friend about the draw of the town, considering it is the most visited destination for American embassy employees in Guatemala. He said, “nothing really. You just hang out, eat and drink.”
Before leaving for Israel, I was cautiously optimistic about their craft beer scene. I was told there was a small but dedicated industry that really started to blossom in the late 2010's. While there are dozens of breweries around the country, the retail scene can be boiled down to about 15 companies and 5 styles. It took me roughly one week to realize I set my expectations too high.
After our first attempt to visit Belgium was nixed back in August, Misha and I regrouped for a second attempt during the Christmas season. I can't believe I'm saying this after only two years away from Massachusetts, but the trip actually made me miss winter weather....It wasn't all a nostalgic return to holiday cheer, though. As a matter of fact, it started as poorly as an international trip can start.
Misha and I took advantage of the September holiday season in Israel to skip town for a week and head to Germany. Rather than return to Bavaria, this time we spent two days each at the beginning and end of our trip in Berlin with two days in Saxony sandwiched in the middle. The food was delicious, the weather warm and sunny, the trip a great success.
This past November, Misha and I were lucky enough to host a party for our friends and family at the 3 Stars brewery. It was a wonderful evening complete with great food, music, friends and beer. 3 Stars was gracious enough to work with me and come up with a beer recipe for the event,... Continue Reading →
About a month after moving to DC, I found work with 3 Stars Brewing. Located in the northern part of the city and less than 10 minutes from the Maryland border, 3 Stars services the entire DMV area with top notch beers. I was hired to help out with events because the summer is prime... Continue Reading →
Beer and Diplomacy 
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