If love is the universal language that transcends borders, boundaries, and differences, coffee must be a close second.
Whether you’re an aficionado or simply enjoy a good cup of joe; enjoy your brew strong and black or sweet and creamy – coffee has a way of bringing people together. And while you can certainly grab a great cup at your local coffee shop, sometimes you need to take your love of coffee to the next level. That’s where coffee tourism comes into play. There are plenty of places around the world where you can find a great cup of coffee, and many countries have begun offering tours that allow you to visit coffee farms to learn about their unique coffee-making processes while sampling some of the most exceptional coffee in the world.
So, grab your travel mug, tally up your frequent flier miles, pack your carry-on bag, and get ready for a caffeinated adventure!
Summer’s Sensational Sips
Summer travels are perhaps the perfect excuse to explore new places and try new taste sensations. And if you’re a coffee lover, there are plenty of destinations that offer great coffee in addition to beautiful scenery.
Some of the best places to visit during the summer months include:
Italy
Are you a fan of strong, bold coffee? There’s no better place to start your coffee journey than Italy. Espresso is a way of life here. This strong, concentrated coffee is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground beans, resulting in a thick, creamy top layer of crema. Served in small cups and typically consumed in a few sips, espresso has made a splash stateside, but if you’re looking for the OG thrill, visit Rome, Florence, and Naples where espresso bars dot every corner, and sample the high-quality beverages served there. Take a sip of an Italian espresso and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a quaint espresso bar in a small Italian village.
Costa Rica
Dating back to the 18th century, coffee production here has become deeply ingrained in the country’s culture and economy. Meticulously nurtured in fertile volcanic soils and elevated altitudes, Costa Rican coffee beans benefit from optimal growing conditions, resulting in a premium product with an unforgettable flavor profile. With a vibrant acidity, medium body, and balanced taste, Costa Rican coffee offers a harmonious blend of sweetness, brightness, and subtle hints of citrus and chocolate that captivates coffee lovers. Visit coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process while enjoying the breathtaking surroundings.
Hawaii
Renowned for its distinct flavor and impeccable quality, Hawaiian coffee has carved out a special place in the hearts and palates of connoisseurs. Grown in the lush volcanic soils and unique microclimates of the Hawaiian islands, the coffee beans benefit from a combination of ideal growing conditions and meticulous cultivation. The result is a cup of coffee that delights with its smoothness, richness, and a delicate sweetness that sets it apart. Whether it’s the renowned Kona coffee from the Big Island or the lesser-known treasures from Maui and other regions, Hawaiian coffee carries an air of exclusivity, embodying a taste of paradise in every sip. After an afternoon basking in the sun and sand, tour local coffee farms and taste different varieties of coffee that will make you want to say “Aloha,” over and over again.
Turkey
Another must-try on your global adventure has to be Turkish coffee. Traditional Turkish coffee has been enjoyed for centuries and is brewed by boiling finely ground coffee beans with water and sugar to create a strong, thick, and flavorful concoction served in small cups. Because the grounds are not filtered, the coffee has a slightly gritty texture that some may find off-putting. Many others love the boldness that only Turkish coffee can provide. This staple can be found throughout the country in shops and cafes, but Istanbul may be your best bet for the purest experience.
Israel
An acquired taste to some, Israeli coffee made with cardamom offers a unique experience that must be tried at least once. A common and fragrant Middle Eastern spice, cardamom is frequently used in Israeli cuisine but also adds a sweet, floral flavor to coffee that is truly one-of-a-kind. Visit Tel Aviv, where coffee is brewed in a copper pot with a long handle (a cezve) and served with a small glass of water to cleanse the palate between sips. Israeli coffee is often paired with a sweet pastry like a rugelach or baklava, making for a truly delicious and indulgent experience.
Still eager to broaden your coffee horizons? The world aims to please. Some of the best countries for coffee tourism include Colombia, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Costa Rica. You’ll come home with a newfound appreciation for the art and science of coffee-making, as well as some amazing memories and stories to share with your fellow coffee lovers.