During the hot summer days, nothing will refresh you better then a long, iced drink. Here is a selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that are sure to keep you nice and cool. Do however bear in mind that caution is advised with the alcoholic drinks listed as they can be exceptionally potent and you may end up drinking more then you have intended.

(serves 4)

150 mls of tequila of your choice

90 mls of triple sec

436 grams of frozen limeade concentrate (or less to taste)

950 mls of ice cubes

Salt for the rims

In a blender mix tequila, triple sec, frozen limeade concentrate with the ice cubes. To prepare the glasses on a separate plate prepare the salt and moisten the rims of the glasses on a damp kitchen towel and then press the glasses into the salt. Pour and serve. In case you crave a bit of variety you make margaritas with other fruits, such as mango or strawberries or you can add raspberry liquor for that extra kick and a twist.

(serves 2)

90 mls of vodka

90 mls of gin

90 mls of rum

90 mls of triple sec

10 mls of tequila

20 mls of orange juice

120 mls of Coca cola

wedges of lemon for garnish

In a shaker filled with ice combine vodka, gin, rum, triple sec and tequila. Add coke and orange juice. Shake well and serve in glasses filled with ice with lemon for garnish. Beware - this one is REALLY potent.

(48 servings)

I have knocked out my whole Spanish class with a pitcher of this one. It tastes delightfully fruity, however it will creep up on you before you know it. There are many variations, this is the simplest one.

4 bottles of red wine

250 grams of white sugar

3 liters of lime flavored carbonated beverage

2 apples, peeled, cored and sliced

4 peaches, sliced

1 banana

(you can add other fruits according to taste, such as lemons or watermelon)

A dash of Cointreau and some cinnamon to taste

In a large bowl combine red wine, sugar, fruits, Cointreau and cinnamon. Refrigerate over night. Before serving add the lime flavored carbonated beverage.

(serves 4)

6 lemons, juiced

335 mls of water

Brown or plain white sugar to taste

Ice cubes

In a large pitcher combine lemon juice and water. Add in the sugar and stir until it dissolves. Add ice cubes. For a bit of a twist you can blend in strawberries, cranberry juice, pineapple juice etc.

While I do not like drinking tea unless I am ill, this green tea mixture is quite refreshing on a hot, summer day. Also I like my drinks lemony, you may want to cut down on lemon juice if that is your preference.

4 bags of green tea

4 cups boiling water

Brown, plain white sugar or honey to taste

2 cups of lemon juice (less or more according to taste)

In a pitcher pour hot water over the green tea bags. Let it rest for about 5 minutes and then discard the green tea bags. Add sugar and mix until it dissolves. Pour in the lemon juice. Either add ice cubes or chill in the refrigerator and add lemon wedges and mint for garnish.