During this summer, a collaboration between a travel company and a tea brand aimed to address a long-standing issue faced by British vacationers.
After extensive research, testing, and over a thousand tea tastings, On the Beach and Lancashire Tea introduced a new teabag designed to address the common complaint of why holiday tea never quite matches the taste of home.
It is a widely recognized dilemma. Upon arrival at a destination in Spain, France, or Portugal, tourists often face the disappointment of being offered a different tea brand and UHT milk, resulting in a less-than-satisfactory cup of tea.
According to tea expert Jane Pettigrew, the preference for British tea over European tea is not solely due to brand loyalty but rather to distinct differences in tea types and milk preferences.
Jane explained that Brits typically favor strong black teas from India, Sri Lanka, and East Africa, while European countries tend to prefer lighter, subtler blends from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, resulting in a taste mismatch for British tourists.
The difference in tea preferences is further accentuated by the historical influences of British and French colonies, shaping the tea-drinking habits in each country.
Moreover, the use of milk in British tea contrasts with the preference for milk-free tea in France and certain African colonies, contributing to the divergence in tea flavors.
Jane highlighted that the perceived superiority of British tea drinkers may stem from a lack of understanding of the diverse tea flavors available globally, with many Brits favoring traditional, strong teas without subtle nuances.
While some British holidaymakers resort to bringing their preferred teabags on trips, the key factors influencing tea taste abroad include both the tea blend and the quality of water used for brewing.
The mineral content in water, such as limescale and chlorine, can significantly impact the flavor and appearance of brewed tea, emphasizing the importance of using filtered water for a consistent tea experience.
To enhance the tea-drinking experience while traveling, Jane recommended using a water filter and opting for loose-leaf tea to ensure a familiar and enjoyable cup of tea.
In conclusion, the difference in taste between British and continental European tea is attributed to distinct preferences in tea types, milk usage, and water quality, highlighting the challenge of replicating the home tea experience abroad.
Regarding the new On the Beach and Lancashire Tea blend, while not revolutionary, it offers a satisfying tea experience, as confirmed by a firsthand trial in Sicily.