I assume the bitter stuff from Italy is Chinotto (of which Pepsi do a particularly dry version)? The San Pellegrino version is lovely - and as I live in a part of the country with an established Italian population, readily available here! A slightly sweeter equivalent is Malta's Kinnie - I say "slightly", but it has terrifying sugar content.

Which leads me on to my country's "other national drink" - Irn Bru. There's nothing quite like it (unless you go to Peru and drink Inca Cola, which is actually quite similar, but much less orange). In its "native" state, it's banned in the US. However, it's incredibly Scottish, and often claimed to outsell all other soft drinks.

Other favourites from around the world - Austria's Almdudler is always a pleasure (a herbal, gingery flavour), as are the various German Apfelschoerle. Japan scores well, not just for randomness, but for some drinks I still crave - not just the various cold teas, but things like aloe juice and Calpis. L&P will always bring back memories of New Zealand, as will Bundaberg Ginger Beer of Australia. Childhood visits to France always included the then novel Orangina, but also the gently amusing Pschitt and Sic. There's also Ricqles, but I try to forget that memory.

And then there's Indian Thums [sic] Up sarsaparilla. I want my thunder!