I love coffee. I must have it in the AM or I'm pretty sluggish. I sometimes grab a cup in the afternoon as well to keep me alive.

Starbucks is a pretty safe bet when traveling. They are pretty much everywhere, and lately, the quality (to me) has been stable. Years ago, I got horrid Lattes at a Starbucks in an Airport. Flavored milk. At another, nothing but grounds. Then they closed for a whole day an "RETRAINED" their Baristas and that seemed to make a difference. Could be just my imagination.

The problem is, I like to explore and support local and micro-brew coffee companies.

I was just on a trip to San Diego and discovered a GREAT place in the Mission Valley area (Near the Double-Tree Hotel) called Intermezzo. It was FABULOUS. I asked the concierge "Coffee shops near here?" and he replied "Starbucks, across in the plaza."
Luckily, I found "Intermezzo" before I found the Starbucks. Best Latte I ever had. Isn't it interesting that "Starbucks" seems to always be blurted out when you ask for a coffee shop. If you asked for a Restaurant, would they say "McDonalds". Of course not. But for coffee? Always seems to be Starbucks. For many coffee is simply a staple commodity like gasoline. One brand is like any other. Not to me.

When I was in London last, I discovered "Cafe Nero" and loved it. Yet saw most "Londoners" in Starbucks. I guess for them it was unique.

Yes, I love Peets coffee when in San Fran, and I enjoy other Micros like Cup O' Joe in Columbus, Ohio (Roasted by Staufs). Speaking of Columbus, "Crimson Cup" is my all time FAVE. I actually order this by UPS and brew it at home. Go figure. From Columbus, Ohio? Not the first place that springs to mind for "coffee".

What do you do when on the road? Just grab a cup at the hotel? Go to Starbucks? Explore the "other" local brews?