Kosupa Travel

Thailand’s vibrant streets, exciting cuisine, and intense heat make it a feast for the senses. When the tropical climate starts to wear you down, there’s nothing better than Thailand’s favorite local spirit, Sangsom (แสงโสม), transformed into a refreshing frozen cocktail.

What is Sangsom?

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Sangsom has been Thailand’s national rum since 1977. This award-winning spirit (gold medals in Madrid 1982-83 and Barcelona 2006) dominates over 70% of Thailand’s domestic spirits market despite being relatively unknown internationally. At around $10 for a 700ml bottle and 40% alcohol content, it offers exceptional value while maintaining high quality.

While Sangsom can be enjoyed straight, on rocks, or with soda, its frozen slush variant has become particularly popular among locals and tourists alike. The slush version transforms the rum into an adult dessert drink, perfect for Thailand’s tropical climate. Often garnished with colorful fruits, gummy candies, and decorative toppings, these Instagram-worthy cocktails have become a staple of Thai youth culture.

Where to Find Sangsom Slush

You can find Sangsom slush cocktails at:

– Street vendors
– Bars
– Restaurants
– Popular tourist areas (especially in Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, and Pattaya)

Local Names for Sangsom Slush

When ordering, look for these common names:

– Sangsom Slush
– Sangsom Bingsu
– Sangsom Ice Cream
– เกล็ดหิมะ (Klet Hima) – meaning “snow flakes”
– บดละเอียด (Bot Deua Ruai) – meaning “finely crushed”

Safety Tips

When enjoying Sangsom slush cocktails:

– Consume quickly before melting
– Choose reputable vendors (check Google Maps reviews)
– Be cautious with ice from street vendors
– Look for busy stalls, as they typically maintain better standards

Final Thoughts

Sangsom slush cocktails offer a unique way to experience Thailand’s local spirits while beating the heat. Each venue adds its own creative twist with different garnishes and toppings, making every drink a new experience.