In a medium saucepan, pour in sugar, the vanilla bean and water and cook on medium high heat until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil, and allow to boil for about 3 minutes or until syrup thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Add approximately 2 tablespoons of pure vanilla extract or to taste.

To make soda, put four tablespoons of the simple syrup in a tall glass. Add ice and fill with soda water. Taste, adding more syrup if needed.