Tripeden.com is ‘Spilling The Tea’ with Seven Destinations to Celebrate International Tea Day
Ah, tea. The comforting brew that most people can’t get enough of. International Tea Day on the 21st May celebrates the cultural and economic significance of tea across the globe, highlighting just how much joy and comfort this beverage can bring. We are marking the occasion with a round-up of seven of the best destinations for tea lovers around the world. With 31% of global travelers motivated to travel by trying trying new food and 46% saying tasty local cuisine impacts their destination decision*, International Tea Day is the perfect excuse to travel to locations naturally steeped in history and beauty. Tea is a worldwide phenomenon and just about every country, from Argentina to Malaysia, has its own way of consuming it. From the rich past of Chinese green tea to the vibrant mint leaves of Morocco, discover the exciting destinations behind the drinks.
Darjeeling, India
The Darjeeling district of West Bengal is known for its plethora of tea gardens, with over 80 stretching across acres of land. Located in the foothills of the mountains, the emerald-green Darjeeling tea gardens produce tea with such an intense aroma and spicy flavor, it’s often referred to as the ‘champagne of teas.’ Visitors can take an Excursion into the World of the famous Darjeeling Tea, take part in a tea tasting ceremony and tour the gardens to soak up the distinctive flavours. When visitors aren’t admiring the majestic Khangchendzonga, the world’s third highest mountain, they can visit Buddhist monasteries and take a ride on the 140-year-old stream Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Where to stay: Deeply ensconced in the quaint little town of Darjeeling, India, Arcadia Heritage Resort is a warm, restful, and inviting retreat. This non-smoking property is just a short drive from such globally acclaimed attractions as Tiger Hill Mountain, Mahakal Temple, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute established in 1954 to promote mountaineering as an organised sport. Accommodations within the resort are comfortable and feature a desk, private balcony with city views, and luggage storage space—a welcome boon for long-haul travelers! Early birds will appreciate the free breakfast spread, which includes a buffet, à la carte, and continental options; while late risers can head over to the sun terrace to take in some rays and glorious mountain views.
Harrogate, United Kingdom
English breakfast tea is a British staple, which has expanded over the years to include a variety of brews including decaf and gold standard. The quaint spa town of Harrogate is home to one of the UK’s most popular Yorkshire tea brands, where it blends tea leaves from Assam and East Africa to create unique combinations bursting with flavor. Take a trip to the nearby city of York and enjoy a delightful city sightseeing cruise along the picturesque River Ouse, where visitors will discover the city's medieval history. Iconic sites include York Minster, one of the largest and most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world.
Where to stay: Dragon Villas by Maison Parfaite - Luxury Studios & Apartments, situated in the heart of the town, these apartments are housed in a building dating back to 1900. Located a short walk from local sites including the Harrogate Turkish Baths, Royal Hall Theatre and Royal Pump Room Museum as well as the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms, serving delicious afternoon teas in Harrogate since 1919.
Kandy, Sri Lanka
This mountainous city with misty skies and a centerpiece lake is home to colorful rainforests and an array of tea estates. It’s where the first tea was planted in Sri Lanka and now has a flourishing economy with over 600 tea estates stretched across the region. Explore the area with a Tea Plantation Cycling Tour and discover the wonders of the city; starting at the Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy, then cycling 55 kilometers through lush tea plantations where travelers can stop and speak to tea pickers and learn about local varieties. Try the refreshing Ceylon tea, each leaf carefully handpicked to ensure its quality – enjoyed warm or over ice.
Where to stay: Located amidst the Madulkelle Tea Estate is the stunning and peaceful Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge. With secluded lodges and a pool with panoramic views across the rolling green hills, it’s perfectly located to nearby attractions including the Hatale Waterfalls and Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage site. When travelers aren’t out exploring the tea estates, they can enjoy a sumptuous meal with freshly grown ingredients from the hotel gardens or a campfire under the stars at night.
Meknès, Morocco
Refreshing mint tea is the national drink of choice in Morocco. Various blends are made across the country, but the vibrant mint leaves from the scenic hilltop city of Meknès are said to be the best. Meander around the old town of this UNESCO-stamped ancient medina to discover everything from specialist souks selling beautiful crafts and textiles to teahouses in secret courtyards.
Where to stay: Stay in the heart of Meknès at the impressive Riad Mama H&K. Traditionally decorated with the authentic architecture of Morocco including hand-carved wood and geometric tiles, the hotel also features a pretty outdoor terrace. Discover local dishes from tangines to seafood in all their richness and variety at the on-site restaurant or relax by the fireplace with a soothing mint tea.
Longjing Village, Hangzhou, China
With a long history stretching through multiple centuries and cultures, tea is one of China’s greatest treasures. Longjing Village, dubbed ‘the holy land of green tea’ – and also known as Dragon Well – is situated in Hangzhou’s beautiful West Lake district. Granted the status of imperial tea during the Qing dynasty, it has a vibrant emerald color and aromatic sweet flavor. Discover the natural beauty of the surrounding villages with a guided half day tour, visiting the secluded hiking trails, ancient temples, hidden grottos and family-run tea shops.
Where to stay: West Lake State Guest House is conveniently located close to West Lake, a short walk from Longjing Village and the China National Tea Museum. Here, visitors can discover the history and evolution of Chinese brews and enjoy a tea tasting. The modern hotel boasts a heated pool, spa fitness center and hot tub in each room – as well as impressive views of classical Chinese scenery.
Misiones, Argentina
Said to have the strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea and the joy of chocolate, the herbal tea Yerba Mate is Argentina’s national drink, and enjoyed for its energy-boosting qualities. The leaves are grown in the rich rainforests of the northeastern province of Misiones, famed for its red earth and papaya fields. Within Misiones lies the Iguazú National Park, home to the magical Iguazú Falls – the world’s largest waterfall – where visitors can spot bright-billed toucans and colorful butterflies.
Where to stay: Self-catering bungalows Cabañas Doralia in the city of Oberá feature a well-equipped kitchen, BBQ terrace, outdoor pool and exquisite garden views. The comfortable accommodation is located near La Ruta Del Te, an Argentinian tea house where travelers can learn from fourth generation tea producers and try Yerba Mate sweetened with agave and served with pastries for an Ruta del teafternoon treat.
Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Steeped in rich tea-making traditions, the Cameron Highlands is renowned for its impressive emerald tea estates and exquisite mountain views. The Bharat Tea Estate produces some of the world's favorite tea labels including Cameroon Valley, which takes its flavor inspiration from Sri Lanka and South India. Visitors can quench their thirst at the estate’s Tea House with a special high tea, and wander through Mossy Forest on a tour of its lush hilly terrain with moss-covered trees, rich wildlife and exotic plants.
Where to stay: Located a short drive away from the Bharat Tea Estate is Heahtitude, a kitsch vintage guest house with modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy activities around the Cameron Highlands, including hiking and cycling in the Mossy Forest, where Rafflesia – the biggest flowers in the world – can be found. Between trekking and tea culture, it’s easy to unwind in the evenings on the beautiful riverside terrace.
*Research was commissioned by Tripeden.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who took a leisure trip with an overnight stay in the last 12 months, plan to travel in 2024, and are involved in trip planning. The sample is comprised of 32,300 respondents across 32 markets (2,000 from USA, 800 from Canada, 1,800 from Mexico, 800 from Colombia, 1,800 from Brazil, 800 from Argentina, 1,800 from Australia, 500 from New Zealand, 800 from Spain, 800 from Italy, 1,800 from France, 1,800 from UK, 1,800 from Germany, 800 from Netherlands, 500 from Denmark, 500 from Sweden, 400 from Croatia, 800 from Switzerland, 800 from Belgium, 800 from Ireland, 800 from Portugal, 1,800 from India, 800 from China, 500 from Hong Kong, 800 from Thailand, 800 from Singapore, 500 from Taiwan, 800 from Vietnam, 800 from South Korea, 1,800 from Japan, 500 from UAE) surveyed in January or February 2024.