[On Thu, 20 Nov 2003 16:55:12 +0000 (UTC), "Plug"
<gluggaglug@hotmail.com> wrote:]

> Having been dry now for many months - I've stopped counting, good sign? - I
> am still appalled/disappointed/annoyed that so few places offer a decent
> alternative to wine and beer. Do the same problems exist in the States,
> Australia and South Africa?

In the States, most places -- restaurants or bars -- will
make you a good non-alcoholic drink if you ask for one.
Most bartenders know all about alcoholism. Many of them are
alcoholics themselves. You just need to work up the courage
to ask.

Just tell them what you want. I personally want either a
hot Virgin Mary or a gallon of lemonade. They can do that.
They will respect you for having done so.