WASHINGTON: The prestigious National Geographic magazine has selected Sri Lanka as one of the six best destinations in the world for tea lovers.
In a feature article published on its online edition, the National Geographic focuses on six unique destinations that boasts of a strong history and culture of tea, that is sure to wake up one’s taste buds while deepening one’s understanding of the history and culture behind the popular must-have drink of millions around the world.
In addition to Sri Lanka, well known for its Ceylon tea brand, the other countries that have been named as top destinations for tea lovers along with their distinct features are Japan (which has a centuries old tea ceremony), Argentina ( for its Yerba mate), England (for its afternoon tea), Morocco (mint tea) and India (masala chai).
The article states that in many parts of the world, the beverage goes far beyond providing a dose of caffeine. Tea can serve as a gesture of friendship or a mark of hospitality. It can also provide a feeling of warmth, then a calm state of mind.
As one of the largest exporters of tea, Sri Lanka offers several scenic experiences, the article states. Its Ceylon black tea is commonly used in blended teas such as Earl Grey and many fruit-flavored varieties around the globe. For a small country, the flavors vary greatly by region. Generally, the higher the altitude, the lighter the flavor and color.
For the ultimate luxurious experience in immersing oneself in everything tea – from hikes through luscious tea-covered fields to tea-based spa treatment -the National Geographic recommends a visit to the Ceylon Tea Trails, where the tea tours, takes one through the tea-making process from shrub to cup.
It also recommends the family-owned Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, located in the hilly tea town of Ella. On the factory tour, guests have a hands-on experience with the tea at every stage of the process. At the end, one can sip the tea at varying strengths. To get to Ella, take the picturesque seven-hour train ride from Kandy, through mountains overlooking colorful villages. If the tea lover has a few days to spare, double your caffeine hit by stopping at the nearby tea town Nuwara Eliya, coined the Little England of Sri Lanka.
