Awhile back, I tried Starbucks VIA Ready Brew, both dry, and wet, and panned it as Skanka. Well, I’m a bit more open-minded… and since the official launch, I’ve grown quite fond of the little packets of instant coffee. VIA can’t beat fresh brewed coffee, but in places where you can’t get to a Starbucks, like work, camping, or Bradford, PA, VIA works quite well. If you have access to hot water, although it works well in cold water too, then you can set up your very own Office Starbucks coffee Station.

• Go to any Starbucks and pick up a 12-pack of Starbucks Via Ready Brew, I like Columbia, it’s a nice medium roast.
• Ask your barista for 12 short cups. Short is the 8oz cups that they don’t advertise, but have available in abundance.
• Also, ask your barista for the bag of napkins, stir sticks, and sugar packets that come with the Coffee Traveler.
• For $10 (they will give you the cups and goodie pack for free if you are nice about it), you have all the stuff to keep your Starbucks addiction at bay while at work. Life is too short for bad coffee.
• I’m sorry, there is no way to get a badass Starbucks “flower” arrangement like the one I have. It was made by a very talented barista in Buffalo, NY.  I think he only made 3. I’ve had it for a couple years and it has lasted wonderfully.
• If you are able, get a carafe and fill it with hot water and keep it close (the water should stay hot all day), and if you plan on sharing your VIA, you can also get a cold cup from your barista filled with chilly moo, to cream it up.