Today Samantha Cristoforetti became not just the first Italian woman to go to space, but also the first astronaut in history to drink an authentic Italian espresso in orbit.

In fact, thanks to the revolutionary ISSpresso machine, Samantha and the other members of the International Space Station crew enjoyed an authentic Lavazza espresso, using the same Lavazza coffee capsules as on Earth.

ISSpresso is the first capsule-based espresso machine capable of functioning in the extreme conditions of space and takes its name from the International Space Station (ISS), where it is installed.

It is the product of a project run by Lavazza and Argotec, the Italian engineering company specialised in the design of aerospace systems and European leader in the preparation of healthy and nutritious foods for in-space consumption.

ISSpresso is a veritable technological and engineering jewel, able to deliver a perfect espresso in weightless conditions. A technological challenge that meets very stringent requirements, imposed by NASA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI), in terms of technical functionality and safety.

This important scientific milestone and engineering achievement is also helping to improve our understanding of the principles of fluid dynamics and microgravity conditions, in addition to contributing to improving the quality of life of astronauts on the ISS.

Another record set by ISSpresso relates to its swift development time of approximately 18 months, far shorter than the average for space projects. The machine is so complex that it weighs about 25 kilograms since there are back-ups of all the critical components for safety reasons in accordance with the specifications agreed upon with ASI.

The innovative capsule system is able to prepare also a caffè lungo or hot beverages, such as tea, infusions and broth, so that food can also be rehydrated. Some of the solutions adopted have led to international patents, which will be useful both for future space missions and immediate terrestrial use.

Marhaba Pool Party' at the Hili Rayhaan Rotana – Al Ain

Bringing communities together has been the main goal of the pool party organized by Hili Rayhaan Rotana. This event is taking place every 3 months, where families and individuals come together to enjoy the great atmosphere the hotel has to offer. On this occasion LavAzza was asked to provide the perfect cup of coffee during the event hours. Keeping in mind that this event was for the community, we knew exactly what to do in order to put a smile on the faces of both the old and the young ones. Equipped with a professional Wega Polaris coffee machine and Ice Coffee blenders, our two baristas ensured the guests a perfect cup of Italian happiness.

While the parents were enjoying themselves with the pleasure of the Italian espresso aromas, the children were having a "hard" time choosing one of the 3 delicious flavored iced drinks (Vanilla, Chocolate or Coffee), which were all a huge success.

We are very happy that the entire guests of the Rotana event have greatly received our coffee love. We hope to see you all again soon.

The extent of perfection of a cup of Italian coffee is defined by the quality of 3 factors: The Machine, The Bean and The Barista. If all of these factors are able to, not only function at its best individually but also as a whole, the perfect Italian coffee experience can be achieved. We are not only providing our customers with the best machines and Lavazza beans of the highest quality, we also extent our professionalism by offering the Barista experience.
In order to become a real barista, one needs to undergo years of extensive training in which the coffee brewing process is evaluated and studied over and over until the barista becomes a part of the coffee himself.
It is therefore that we provide all of our customers with the possibility to participate to a training session which is given by our own certified Lavazza Barista. During these Coffee Classes both the theoretical and practical side of coffee is explained. Yet, improvement of the quality of coffee will not come after just one session. The Italian saying "La pazienza è una virtù" which means Patience is a virtue applies very well for coffee. The best way to learn how to make a proper cup of coffee is by practicing. Yet, we are delighted to offer the basics of coffee at site and now at our new Lavazza Training center.