Tea Tourism – 8 Must-Visit Destinations for Tea Lovers
There’s something truly comforting about a good cup of tea. For many, it’s more than just a drink – it’s a daily ritual, a pause, a way of life.
If you’re someone who appreciates a proper brew, why not explore the world through your teacup?
From the hills of Darjeeling to the heart of London, tea has a rich and fascinating history in many cultures, and tea tourism is quickly catching up with coffee tourism in global travel trends.
The beauty of tea is that even if you aren’t able to travel, you can taste your way across the globe from the comfort of your own living room. So, whether you are planning a big trip or not, here are the eight countries that you need to try the tea from.
Tea Tourism – 8 Must-Visit Destinations for Tea Lovers
The UK: The Home of Afternoon Tea
Let’s begin with Britain, where tea drinking is a cherished tradition.
Whether it’s a classic English Breakfast or a milder Earl Grey, Brits like me take their tea seriously. All across the UK you’ll find countless tearooms where you can enjoy a proper afternoon tea, complete with scones, clotted cream, and finger sandwiches.
The experience is less about thirst and more about taking a break from the world.
If you fancy brewing at home, it’s easy to buy tea pods online, sample loose-leaf blends, or discover speciality teabags through retailers like Maxi Coffee, which offers a wide range of teas from around the world. With just a kettle and a bit of curiosity, your taste buds can do the travelling for you!
India: A Land of Chai and Tradition
India is a country where tea isn’t just a drink but a daily companion.
The most famous variety here is masala chai, a blend of black tea, spices like cardamom and ginger, and milk. It’s bold, aromatic, and wonderfully warming.
Some of the most famous tea plantations are in in Assam and Darjeeling, where you can walk through misty gardens, watch how the leaves are handpicked, and taste fresh brews right where they grow.
Each region has its own unique flavour profile. Darjeeling teas are often floral and delicate, while Assam tea offers a stronger, maltier flavour.
Sri Lankan Ceylon Tea: Bright, Bold, and Full of Flavour
Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, is famous for its vibrant, full-bodied black tea.
Grown in the lush highlands, Ceylon tea has a brisk, citrusy quality that makes it refreshing both hot and iced. It’s often used in breakfast blends and pairs beautifully with milk or lemon.
You’ll find different flavours depending on the region – teas from Nuwara Eliya are light and floral, while those from Ruhuna are darker and richer. The tea pictured above is from the famous Pedro Estate in Nuwara Eliya.
Ceylon tea is incredibly versatile, making it a great addition to any tea lover’s collection.
Whether brewed strong for a morning boost or sipped slowly in the afternoon, it delivers bold flavour with every cup.
I visited in June 2023
Japan: The Art of Matcha
The Japanese tea culture is refined, quiet, and deeply respectful. One of the most popular teas here is matcha – a powdered green tea known for its vivid colour and earthy taste.
In Kyoto, you can attend a traditional tea ceremony. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about mindfulness, posture, and patience.
Beyond matcha, you’ll also find genmaicha (green tea with roasted rice) and sencha, both offering light, refreshing tastes.
China: Where It All Began
China is the birthplace of tea.
With thousands of years of history, it’s no surprise that the variety here is vast. You’ll find green teas like Longjing (Dragon Well), black teas such as Keemun, and even pu-erh, a fermented tea with a deep, rich flavour.
Head to Yunnan or Fujian provinces to see ancient tea-growing traditions. Local teahouses are welcoming, and many even offer tastings.
Watching tea prepared in the traditional gongfu style is a show in itself – precise, elegant, and done with care.
Morocco: Sweet Mint Delights
If you’re looking for something different, head to North Africa.
Moroccan mint tea is both refreshing and symbolic of hospitality. It’s made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and a generous amount of sugar. Served in small glasses, it’s usually poured from a height to create a bit of froth.
In Marrakech, many cafes and riads serve this sweet tea on rooftop terraces, offering both flavour and a view. It’s perfect after a day exploring bustling souks and winding alleys.
No Moroccan breakfast, lunch, or dinner is complete without a glass of mint tea.
Türkiye: Black Tea with a View
Turkish tea, or çay, is often served in tulip-shaped glasses without milk. It’s strong, dark, and slightly bitter.
Locals sip it throughout the day, often in parks, shops, and markets. The Black Sea region is where most Turkish tea is grown, and visiting a tea house in Istanbul is a must.
Unlike the formality of British tea, Turkish tea is simple and social. It’s about conversation, relaxation, and connection.
South African Rooibos: Naturally Caffeine-Free
If you’re looking for a caffeine-free option that still offers depth and comfort, rooibos is a wonderful choice.
Native to South Africa, rooibos (also called red bush tea) has a naturally sweet, earthy flavour and is packed with antioxidants. It’s often enjoyed on its own or with a splash of milk.
You can find rooibos blends mixed with vanilla, citrus, or even spices for a twist on traditional tastes. It’s perfect for winding down in the evening without missing out on that warm, familiar ritual of tea.
Tea Tourism | Final Thoughts
Even if you can’t hop on a plane, you can still travel through taste.
Try teas from different countries at home. Experiment with how they’re brewed and served. Tea is one of the world’s few drinks that connects so many cultures, yet remains deeply personal.
So, pack your teapot and let your next journey begin with a sip. Whether you prefer it milky, minty, spicy, or green, there’s a whole world waiting in your cup.
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