In a world full of coffee memes and caffeine junkies, tea drinkers tend to get a little lost. As with anything, though, exploring the world of tea is as exciting as learning about wine, chocolate, cheese, and all our other favorite indulgences.
Luckily, I got to try some of the best tea in India when I visited the Glenburn Tea Estate in remote Darjeeling. Truth be told, it was magic. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the charming plantation house looked out over brilliant green terraces of tea leaves. Set on the Rungeet River and overlooked by the Kanchenjunga mountains, the plantation is now one of the best places to get a real feel for India’s tea tradition. It is also a welcome change from the craziness of the rest of India!.
The peace you get watching the mist rise from the fields in the morning, and the lights twinkle in the huts at night, make this a real paradise on earth. I totally agree with Conde Naste Traveller, which said in a recent issue:
“Visiting Glenburn is like arriving in a little corner of heaven – and almost as remote”
In my days on the estate, we explored its history and met the many dedicated people that keep it going. It was clear that everyone who works at Glenburn takes great pride in working the land and producing the finest free-trade, organic teas. The estate has been producing tea since 1860; now, the Prakash family employs over 1,000 workers on their plantation. Now, I have to admit, I’m not a tea drinker. After learning about all the hard work that goes into a single cup, from planting to picking to pouring, I was happy to try a few of Glenburn’s premium teas. My favorite, by far, was the Glenburn White Peony, awhite tea that they consider their ‘champagne.’
What I really love about my job is that I get to see how the world’s most famous foods are made from the ground up. I have spent a lot of time searching for truffles, picking olives in ancient groves, walking rows of grapevines, even checking out caviar sturgeon, and it has given me and everyone who comes along for the ride a new appreciation for the foods we eat.
Check back next week for another Delectable Destinations adventure!
Carol Ketelson is the owner and operator of Delectable Destinations LLC. Dedicated to planning, co-ordinating and curating customized group tours to hand-picked destinations. As an experienced travel planner, Carol’s customized itineraries, specialized tours and off-the-beaten-path experiences create memorable journeys for her small groups of singles, couples, divorced, widowed and solo travelers seeking exceptional trips into the culture and cuisine of destinations around the world. Spring and Fall bookings invite travelers to taste delectable local cuisine, culturally rich traditions and mesmerizing sights. For over 10 years, Carol’s tours have captured the true essence of Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Spain, Ireland and India.
Delectable Destinations…Delivering your dream trip. For more information & 2017 trips log onto: delectabledestinations.com
