I'm a tea drinker as a general rule, but the occasional coffee goes down well. Brand I'm not too fussy, willing to try all.

I agree that real coffee is the best however, but going back to instant I have a question:

Milk first or after?

I always put instant coffee in first, then add milk, then add hot water. Tastes much nicer than the granules, hot water and finally milk.

Or, for that extra special instant coffee experience - half milk, half water in a mug, microwave full power for a couple of minutes then add the instant coffee! Watch it froth over the top of the mug and taste the difference!