Advice For First Time Drinkers

There are many good pubs out there like Gigi’s Hoxton. As a first-time drinker, it is easy to get carried away and make rookie mistakes. We’re here to keep you on the straight and narrow with our helpful advice and tips:

1. Don’t mix your drinks – It is sensible to choose your tipple and stick to it for the night. This will help you to keep track of how much you have drunk more easily, especially as some drinks are stronger than others.
2. Make sure you drink plenty of water – Alcohol has the effect of dehydrating you so it is really important to drink water, this will also help to prevent or at the very least reduce the severity of the hangover you have the following day.
3. Don’t leave your drink unattended – It is always sensible to keep your drink close at hand because unfortunately there is a risk that somebody could tamper with it. By keeping your drink with you it means there is no risk of someone else adding more alcohol or a different substance to it, as this could make you unwell and put you in a vulnerable position.
4. Make sure you have someone with you and ask for help if you need it – If you overdo things you might start to feel unwell and it is important that you are not on your own if this happens. If you start to feel ill, make sure you tell someone and ask them to look after you.
5. You don’t have to drink as much as you can in as short a time as possible –  Pace yourself and don’t feel pressured to have another drink just because someone else is. Make sure you take your time to enjoy the drink you choose, and rehydrate yourself with a glass of water after you’ve finished.
6. Eat before you start drinking – Make sure you have a proper, substantial meal before you start drinking. Carbohydrates are best if possible. This will help you to tolerate the alcohol better and help you to feel on top of your game for longer.
7. Don’t drink and drive – Don’t get in a car with someone who has been drinking and don’t drive after you have been drinking either. It is not worth getting behind the wheel if you have had even one drink, nor is it worth getting in a car with a driver who has been drinking. Plan ahead and ensure you have arranged your transport for getting home, whether this is a lift from a family member or friend, public transport or a taxi.

There are many ways in which you can stay safe and ensure you’re having fun when drinking alcohol. By following this advice and taking these tips on board, you are giving yourself the best possible chance to have a positive experience. Cheers!