Capping off a few laps in the pool at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages and Spa last weekend, we emerged thirsty and sought refreshment at the poolside bar. Upon ordering a cocktail, we quickly heard the unmistakable Jamaican accent of bartender Austin Heath and struck up a conversation. “It’s been a great experience being a bartender here,” Heath informs us of his four-year tenure at the Beaches resort. “I’ve learnt a lot in terms of customer service, understanding how to greet customers and react to certain situations,” he shares. As we catch up over his sky-blue alcoholic creation, dubbed the ‘Austin Powers’, Heath says he has had an innate passion for creating cocktails and derives inspiration in-the-moment when guests will request a special drink. “I worked at Beaches Negril before coming here. I decided to move to get a different experience and to expose myself to a different culture,” the 32-year-old tells us. As for what has kept him in a foreign land for almost half-a-decade (save for trips back home once a year), the bartender says: “Turks is very quiet and peaceful, and the entire country is very relaxing.” Pulling on the straw for another sip of Heath’s thirst-quencher, we nod in absolute agreement. (Photos: Joseph Wellington)

Thursday Food enjoyed several of Heath’s cocktails.

Here are two you can try making for your next party or in the comfort of your own home.

Blue Heaven Cocktail

1 oz white rum

1 oz amaretto

1 oz Blue Curacao

4 oz pineapple juice

Garnish with a pineapple wedge.

‘Junior Reid’ Cocktail

1 oz banana liqueur

1 oz El Dorado Rum

1 oz pineapple juice

1 oz orange juice

Mix all ingredients and pour one more ounce of El Dorado Rum on top.

Garnish with a pineapple wedge.