When Lizette Van Essén, a 28-year-old Swedish woman, moved to Australia in July, she was looking forward to soaking up the sun, exploring the vast landscapes, and enjoying the local cuisine. However, she didn't expect to stir up a national conversation over something as seemingly straightforward as a glass of lemonade.

In a video that has now captured the attention of thousands, Lizette posed a question that left many Aussies scratching their heads. 'Aussies, what's going on?' she captioned a video showing a glass of Sprite on her table. 'Second time that I order a lemonade in Australia and I get this. Somebody tell me what I'm doing wrong?'

A woman's search for lemonade, or lemon squash, in Australia continues. Image Credit: Pexels/DESIGNbyJA

The confusion arose from a cultural difference in the definition of 'lemonade'. In Sweden, as in many parts of Europe and the United States, 'lemonade' refers to a non-fizzy drink made from lemon, water, sugar, and ice – a refreshing concoction that's perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day. But in Australia, as Lizette discovered, ordering a lemonade at a restaurant typically results in a carbonated beverage like Sprite or Schweppes.

The video quickly went viral, sparking a debate among Australians and international viewers alike. Comments poured in with suggestions and explanations. 'Ask for a lemon squash, babe,' advised one user, while another recommended, 'American lemonade at all markets on the weekend but you'll need a pub squash or Solo for a similar vibe.'

The conversation didn't stop there. Some Aussies were curious about the American version of lemonade, with one asking, 'OK but like why is American lemonade so yellow?' Others tried to clarify that in Australia, 'lemon squash' is also fizzy, and finding the American-style lemonade Lizette was craving might be a challenge at local eateries.

Determined to find her preferred beverage, Lizette embarked on a quest, sampling alternatives like Kirks Lemon Squash and Solo Lemon Mango Zero Sugar. Yet, none of these hit the mark. Her search in cafes also proved fruitless, as she was repeatedly offered soft drinks instead of the traditional lemonade she sought.

'I still haven't found it yet! If anyone knows where I can get the kind I'm looking for, please let me know,' Lizette said, undeterred. She even promised to share her findings and, if necessary, to make the drink herself and share it with anyone interested in trying the authentic version.

Lizette did find some drinks close to the one she's been craving for. Watch here:

Source: @montageoflife/TikTok​

This beverage blunder highlights the fascinating differences in food and drink terminology across cultures. It's a reminder that what may be considered commonplace in one country can be a source of confusion or novelty in another.

For our senior readers who have travelled or have family overseas, you might have encountered similar situations where a familiar word or phrase has an entirely different meaning abroad. It's these little cultural quirks that make travelling and interacting with other cultures so enriching – and sometimes amusing.

So, next time you're overseas or even visiting a different part of Australia, remember that a simple order can lead to a delightful conversation and perhaps even a viral moment. And if you're craving a classic lemonade like Lizette, you might just have to roll up your sleeves and make it the old-fashioned way – with fresh lemons, sugar, and a lot of stirring.

Key Takeaways

• A Swedish woman sparked debate in Australia regarding the difference between lemonade in Australia and Sweden.
• Lizette Van Essén became confused when she ordered lemonade in Australia but received a fizzy drink such as Sprite, unlike the still lemonade she was accustomed to in Sweden.
• Australians offered alternatives such as lemon squash and Solo, but none matched the still lemonade Lizette was seeking.
• Lizette continues her search for the traditional non-fizzy lemonade she knows from home and has taken to social media to share her journey.

We'd love to hear from you, members! Have you ever had a similar experience while ordering food or drinks in another country? Share your stories in the comments below, and let's see how many of us have been 'lost in translation' with our culinary requests!

 

[deni67]

Not a confusion but when I speak to my close friend in Tennessee on the phone he says Erb instead of Herb as we say it, and they keep the H in Vehicle whereas we drop it.
When they write cheque, as in sending someone a cheque, they write check and they pronounce Aussie as Arssie, I tell him to prounce it as Ozzie.
If he's going to Solder something he pronounces it as Soder and one that really bugs me is how he says Aluminium, he pronounces it as Aluminum, I try to teach him Aussie speak but don't get me started on our slang, it goes right over his head

 

[Colette 3799]

When we first came to Australia ice lollies became icy poles, sweets became lollies. The kids soon worked it out lol. For us adults a hose pipe became just a hose, a dustbin became a garbage bin along with the dustbin man becoming the garbo.