By tpsdave CC0
If the power of the great bean drives your lust for life, then maybe you should let it drive your wanderlust too! Discover where to go and why before you book your next break…
Columbia
Not only is Columbia home to some of the best coffee in the world, it is home to The National Coffee Park. This is a theme park dedicated to the culture, cultivation and history of coffee. If you are travelling with less coffee-enthusiastic family members, they’ll be pleased to know that there are a range of rides and attractions to enjoy – albeit with a coffee-related theme.
Italy
The nation is well known for its love of coffee, so much so that there is a definite etiquette in place if you want to fit in. Only order milky coffee for breakfast, stick to black coffee or espressos during the day and after dinner indulge in the very best of caffeinated Italian passion with an affogato – a delectable ice cream and espresso desert!
USA
Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks and claims to be the coffee capital of the US. Portland thinks the title is theirs as they started the speciality coffee culture, and boast over 40 independent small-batch roasters. We advise you visit both places and make your own mind up.
Ethiopia
Did you know that Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee? Historians believe that nomads in the region appreciated the very special effects of the bean as early as the 10th century. With so many years of coffee culture under the belt, it comes as no surprise that visitors can enjoy coffee ceremonies, rituals and tours as well as enjoying the simple pastime of café hopping.
Turkey
Turkish coffee has a twang of it’s very own, an experience no coffee lover should miss out on. Don’t be fooled into thinking you can try an array of milky treats in coffee shops though. No, in Turkey coffee culture is done differently! Turkish coffee is rich, thick, strong and usually served with LOTS of sugar. To find the authentic stuff you’ll be looking for street vendors who boil up finely ground beans multiple times in a small metal pot called a cezve.
Austria
According to UNESCO, Vienna’s coffee culture is an “Intangible Cultural Heritage”, which is to say – a coffee appreciators paradise! Here you’ll find opulent and ornate coffee houses, some of which date back to the 17th century, complete with marble, mahogany and many period features. The atmosphere is understandably upmarket, erudite and far more exclusive than your nearest Starbucks!