Ao Hin Wong, Thailand-On the far side of Koh Tao, there is a secluded beach that’s protected from the normal hubbub of backpackers. Watch the days spread before you like a glimmering Southeast Asian cove, and the nights slip over the sky like a dark gown, cloaking the day with a seductive nostalgia leaving you wanting more.
Huddled around a table–cards are shuffled, jokes dealt, cigars puffed, watches set and drinks are improvised. We needed an alternative. The Hong Thong and Coke Zero mix was pedestrian at its best, and nauseating in its worst hours. So, the second night found us getting a little more creative. The Hin Wong bungalows have one of the highest ratings primarily due to their stellar views, and frothy coconut shakes. Utilizing what was at our disposal–these famous coconut shakes, Thailand’s very own Sam Song rum, and pineapple juice–we created the Hin Wong Colada, something exclusively reserved for this idyllic place in time.
The Piña Colada, originating in Puerto Rico, coincidentally one of my ancestral origins, has a beautiful affinity with tropical locations. It seemed at home in the Asian heat. A couple of tries and finally we created the ideal mixture. Instead of the traditional 3 part pineapple, 1 part rum, 1 part coconut milk, we inverted it to 3 parts coconut shake, 2 parts pineapple, 1 part rum. This delicate, refreshing beverage was an absolute antidote to the heat, and the subtle sweetness of the coconut shake, mixed with the tang of the Pineapple smoothed one of the more potent rums that I’ve been fortunate enough to try. Often times, when faced with constringent factors, one should step back and realize that something greater is at work around you. Possibly something greater than all of us.
Traditional Piña Colada
- 3 parts pineapple juice
- 1 part coconut milk
- 1 part white rum
Add to blender with crushed ice. Blend, serve and consume. Garnished with Pineapple slice and/or Maraschino.
Hin Wong Colada
- 1 Coconut Shake
- 2 parts Pineapple Juice
- 1 part Sam Song
Enjoy half of the Coconut Shake, it’s tempting to drink more. Add 2 parts of Pineapple juice, 1 of Sam Song and stir. Make 3 or 4.
Con Amor,
Mr. Cohiba
