Colombia - House Of Coco Magazine

Food & Drink January 5, 2024

El Cielo, Medellín: Is this the finest restaurant in South America?

If you haven’t heard of renowned Colombian chef, Juan Manuel Barrientos, you will very soon. He is affectionately known as ‘Juanma’ by locals and at the very young age of 40 is already the founder of a hospitality group that includes restaurants and hotel across the Americas. He was named one of the 50 best chefs in Latin America and there is no doubt you will see his empire extending into Europe in the not-too-distant future.

His original restaurant is based in Medellín. It is now situated inside his boutique El Cielo Hotel. You can appreciate his popularity with a visit to his fabulously inventive restaurant there. With an open kitchen, you can see all the staff in action. They are all dressed in white lab coats with hair nets and meticulously beavering away at their workstations. You can be excused for thinking you’ve walked into the world of Willy Wonka and his chocolate factory.

Their tasting menu includes more than 15 courses or ‘moments’ as they like to call them in the restaurant. They like to create a sense of mystery with their menu. If you look online, you’ll find a long list of mostly single words, which don’t describe the ingredients of the dish. They are in fact, different regions of Colombia and your gastronomic journey at El Cielo is a whirlwind tour of the different regions of the country. What is important to note is this tasting menu is only available at the Medellín branch. If you visit their Michelin-starred restaurants in Miami or Washington DC, only some of the highlights might be on their menu.

The moments are designed to stimulate your senses. The restaurant is well-known for its choco-therapy, so for one course, you’ll be crushing a chocolate truffle ball with your hands. Then you will be enjoying the delights without the use of cutlery. It will bring back innocent childhood memories when dining was less rigid and formal.

This is also the case for another course, where diners are offered edible balloons with helium inside. That is the cue for a chorus of Donald Duck voices reverberating around the restaurant. What makes their concept so successful is they take the seriousness out of fine dining and with every course, they bring a heartfelt smile to everyone’s faces.

Although not advertised on their website, they do cater for dietary requirements. They can readily prep for a vegetarian version of the tasting menu. For example, when they present locally cured charcuterie, they can offer smoked peppers instead.

Dishes are nevertheless always exquisitely presented. The “tree of life” is a case in point, it’s a crunchy canopy of yucca bread presented in a tree trunk structure that made it resemble a bonsai tree.

You might have thought the “tree of life” would represent the Amazonas course. Instead, it is the fish course that contained arapaima. It is the largest freshwater fish in the world and is found in the Amazon River. The dish is presented with burning charcoal and you do wonder whether it is intentional to represent the long-suffering rainforest. The Arapaima has a rather firm texture reminiscent of cod. Another seafood course is the Cartagena-inspired sausage course that is made with crab meat and white fish.

If you are a meat lover, your main course will be paradise. It’s a confit duck served with a peach sauce along with a duck reduction sauce. It’s a surprise you see a lot of menus offering duck and orange but rarely see duck and peach paired together.

The meal is also interactive. For one of the dessert courses, you are a paleontologist looking for an ammonite, as you brush away the edible powder to reveal your dessert. History is never far away from your experience. With the petit fours, it is presented alongside a replica of the Muisca raft, which is the most famous artefact from the Gold Museum in Bogota.

Coffee is an integral part of the Colombian dining experience. The cafetal course includes the use of liquid nitrogen before your coffee is served to resemble the misty conditions of the coffee-growing regions of Colombia.

Throughout the meal, the kitchen excels in showing its mastery of molecular gastronomy. The full experience generally takes at least 3 hours, so make sure you plan either a full afternoon or evening for your meal. ‘El Cielo’ means heaven in Spanish and you will be in gastronomic heaven by the end of your meal.

For more information on the restaurant, please visit –

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Travel January 4, 2024

Guatapé – The most colourful town in Colombia

If you follow travel content creators on social media, there is a very high chance you would have seen the unique town of Guatapé in Colombia. The Rock of Guatapé with the iconic zig-zagging staircase features prominently on the likes of Instagram and TikTok. Surprisingly, the monolithic rock is a natural formation. It takes a short 15-20 minutes to ascend the rock, and climbing the 740 steps to reach the summit will offer a great cardiovascular workout. The panoramic 360º views of Guatape Lake and the El Peñón region as you reach the pinnacle are worth the endeavour.

The town itself is filled with ‘zocalos’, which are vibrant, colourful murals that surround the cobbled streets of Guatapé. The paintings often depict local life or concealed messages about local beliefs and products. This is one town where you want to ensure you have enough storage on your camera phones to ensure you capture countless photo opportunities.

If you want to know where to stay in Guatapé, I would highly recommend booking a glamping experience with Bosko. This is glamping with a capital G. Their ‘tents’, the Mush.Rooms are geodesic structures that resemble globe lanterns in the nighttime.Their concierge service is on par with any 5-star hotel in the country. They can arrange a private transfer for you from José María Córdova International Airport in Medellín. It’s an approximate 2-hour drive through some of the most scenic parts of the country.

On arrival, you are offered a detoxifying welcome drink immediately and this is followed by a coffee exfoliation ritual to cleanse your hands. Unsurprisingly, Colombians are fervent coffee connoisseurs and don’t just use it for drinking but in all aspects of their lives. Next, you are led to your Mush.Rooms, which are scattered throughout the property and provide maximum privacy. The pathways are relatively narrow but thankfully their staff team will assist with luggage transfer. There are three types of accommodation: deluxe, golden and presidential.

If you want a bucket-list experience, I would strongly suggest booking for the presidential Mush.Room. It is surprisingly affordable if you are comparing it to other presidential suites at 5-star hotels. The pièce de résistance is getting your private thermal pool with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding forest and lake. If you enjoy taking selfies, you will be in seventh heaven. Even if you are camera-shy, this is sheer paradise.

The Mush.Room also offers high-speed WiFi, internal heating including an electric blanket on your bed and a fully-stocked minibar including exquisite wines. The dark wood interior is smartly designed and resembles a showroom in a high-end interior design store rather than a camping site in a rainforest. They offer an open-sky shower with luxury amenities from L’Occitane.

For those staying in the other Mush.Rooms, they do have a general sky pool for you to relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery. They helpfully have signs posted throughout the grounds which highlight the animals you might encounter such as the great trush or the sparkling violet ear. There is also a QR code for you to hear what the birds sound like.

Dining at Bosko is a hidden gem, which you won’t read much about even on their website. Breakfast is cooked to order and delivered to your tent at no extra charge. It is delivered in one of those luxurious hampers which you suspect might be floatable in your thermal pool. You can opt for traditional options like sunny-side-up eggs on toast or Colombian specialties like freshly baked arepas with Colombian-style red beans. Naturally, Colombian coffee is served along with an exotic fruit platter selection.

If you don’t feel like heading into town, their restaurant is a superb option for lunch and dinner. They have an eclectic selection that caters for all tastes. Typically, they offer western dishes with a hint of Colombian flavour such as pork tenderloin served with mashed potatoes and a sweet and sour coffee sauce. The dishes are all exquisitely presented and wouldn’t look out of place in a 5-star hotel. For vegetarians, they have stronger options in the starters and finger food section such as empanadas with homemade aji sauce. and creamy sweet corn with cheese and tajin. In your travels in Colombia, you are more than likely to come across their love of cheese. They even enjoy hot chocolate with cheese.

If you want to offset some calories post-meal, they have kayaks and paddle boards for hire free of charge by the lakeside. The vast Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir is a man-made phenomenon rather than a natural lake. It was built in the 1980s as part of a hydroelectric project that powers up to 30% of the electricity supply of Colombia. You can paddle to your heart’s content as long as you return by 17:00, which is when the lake closes for water-sporting activities.

If you prefer the luxury James Bond-style experience instead, you can book a private speedboat tour instead and see more of the lake area. Your guide will show you the famous houses owned by the likes of footballers from the Colombian national team and Pablo Escobar’s former mansion. If you are lucky, you might be allowed to drive the boat at some point during your trip.

Whether you are a nature lover, a thrill-seeker or just want a tranquil wellness break, there is something to offer for everyone in the magical town of Guatapé.

For more information on the hotel, please visit –

https://bosko.com.co/en/home

Travel January 2, 2024

Cartagena de Indias – Meet the romantic capital of Colombia

It’s no wonder why Cartagena de Indias captivates locals and tourists alike. This medieval walled city on the Caribbean coast boasts charm, culture, vitality, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Explore its narrow, colorful streets lined with boutique shops in one of the best-preserved old cities in the Americas.

Discover Historic Elegance at Casa San Agustín in Cartagena de Indias

There is a more modern part of the city, filled with glass-laden high rises, which is reminiscent of Miami. However, I would recommend staying in the old city to soak up the magic of Cartagena. Staying in one of the refurbished, grand colonial homes from the 17th and 18th centuries is the best way to discover the city.

Casa San Agustín is one such property and it is situated in the heart of the action at Plaza de los Estudiantes. The refined boutique hotel was created from three meticulously restored 17th-century mansions. It has only 20 guestrooms and 11 suites, so attentive service from the staff is guaranteed. It seamlessly blends modern comforts with authentic Colombian features. You’ll notice the original frescoes in the library where they serve complimentary afternoon tea. In the guest rooms, you’ll see their iconic wood-beamed ceilings that are centuries old.

Accommodations at Casa San Agustín, Cartagena de Indias

The main feature of the hotel is a 300-year-old aqueduct that serves as a backdrop to the main plunge pool. It is precisely because of the existence of boutique hotels like Casa San Agustín that helps to keep these important relics well-preserved. Plenty of greenery such as palm trees surround the public areas to offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the old town.

The rooms are relatively spacious even at the entry-level deluxe rooms, which range from 409 and 839 sq. ft. They provide luxurious Frette linens as well as renowned Ortigia amenities from Sicily. On the other end of the spectrum, you have the eye-catching Suite Prestige. They are duplexes with an area between 1539 and 1732 sq. ft. They include two bedrooms which is ideal for families and close friends to share. All the rooms offer a complimentary mini-bar that includes soft drinks and beer. The combination of dark wood, polished marble and ornate painting tiling in the bathroom adds to the colonial grandeur of the surroundings.

Their sister property, Casa Pestagua offers a similar level of comfort and sophistication. It is known as “the most beautiful house in Cartegena”. It belonged to the powerful 18th-century aristocrat, Count of Pestagua. It had undergone a major 15-million-dollar refurbishment and had only reopened last April. Now you can live the life of a count too, when you book in to stay at Casa Pestagua. The hotel is a proud member of the Relais & Chateaux group, the only hotel in Colombia awarded with that honour.

You might feel even more exclusive at this property with only 10 spacious suites and 6 deluxe rooms. The laid-back charm is very similar to Casa San Agustin. The central plunge pool is ideal for escaping the occasional sweltering Caribbean heat. The shaded sunbeds underneath the tropical palm trees are an ideal spot for catching up with your reading list. You’ll notice plenty of Moorish-inspired arches around the boutique hotel that recount the colonial times of previous centuries.

Indulge in Culinary Excellence

The rooms have a light and airy design, no doubt helped by the double-height ceilings and excellent use of natural lighting. You’ll find sturdy-looking light wooden beams on the ceiling of all the rooms. Similar to the sister property, the entry-level room is deluxe and includes luxury linen and ever-reliable Ortigia amenities. Having been refurbished recently, the decor is marginally fresher looking than her sister property but both boutique hotels are maintained to the highest of standards.

The restaurant offering at both hotels is headed by renowned Chef Heberto Eljach, who is one of the most celebrated chefs in Colombia. At Casa Pestagua, we have the culinary delight of AniMare. The menu is a journey of Colombian cuisine with modern touches. It takes in both influences from the Caribbean and the Pacific side of the country. You’ll get to savour local classics such as shrimp and snail cocktail Cartagena style. Typically, such a dish is found as street food in the local streets of the city, but here it is served in a much-elevated format, with avocado and homemade bread. Their seafood casserole main course is equally elevated with treasures of the sea served up in lobster cream and coconut milk sauce along with fried plantain chips. At Alma situated in Casa San Agustín, you’ll enjoy a similarly extravagant fine dining experience. They are particularly proud of showcasing the best of Colombian cuisine and cater for all kinds of dietary requirements from gluten-free to vegetarian needs.

For those looking for a beach holiday, you can enjoy that as well whilst staying at both hotels. They have a private beach club at ACASĪ on Isla Barú. You can immerse your feet on the white sandy beaches and swim in the turquoise waters of the beach. The hotel can arrange a private round-trip boat charter that takes about 45 minutes and you can admire the picturesque coastline along the way. It will be a different experience to the history and culture of the old town.

Finally, if you want to relax further, they have the Aurum spa. You can enjoy everything from a detoxifying body scrub in the hammam to a gold wrap to help nourish the skin. Aurum is the Latin word for gold.

For a holiday where you can enjoy both a city break and a beach holiday. One where you can embrace history and modernity. Make sure you check out the romantic city of Cartagena.

For more information on the hotels, please visit –

https://casapestagua.com/en/
https://www.hotelcasasanagustin.com/

Adventures November 9, 2023

Top destinations for a boating holiday in the winter

Boating is definitely one of the most popular choices for holidays in winter, as you can escape the cold and enjoy some sun and blue waters in countries that are warm all year long. Besides that, yacht charter holidays are great for the ultimate relaxation, giving you a sense of luxury and independence. The best part about boating holidays, however, is how easy it is to book. There are some high quality yacht charter companies that make boat hire as simple as booking a hotel.

After that, it is only a matter of choosing the perfect destination. Here are some of the most beautiful boating holiday destinations:

Latin America

One of the most impressive destinations for a yacht charter is Latin America, with an endless list of places and countries to visit within the area. Latin America’s coast is inundated with deserted beaches where you can stop off to explore.

To experience the always passionate Latin culture, you can also visit Brazil, Argentina or Colombia. These have plenty of vibrant coastal cities to explore, full of never-ending parties, events or restaurants breathing of Latin culture.

For family holidays with a yacht charter, visiting the nature of South America and spotting some exotic animals on the way is a perfect holiday. Boating through the Amazon river will provide you with a great chance to feel adventurous and lose yourself in the wild nature. The coast of Brazil has plenty of opportunities to spot whales and dolphins as well.

Australia

Australia is a great yachting destination for a yacht charter in the winter because of the great year-round weather. In fact, it’s summer in Australia when it is winter in the UK and US, making it a great trip in the January time if you enjoy a lot of heat.

Australia is a great destination, but it varies widely on which coast you want to travel around. This gives you great variety: you could visit the popular surfing beaches, shopping and bars on the east coast, and also see the outback and more local coastline of the North or East.

Dubai

If you are hoping for a truly luxurious holiday, a yacht trip around Dubai will definitely meet all your expectations. The wealth of the country makes it very accommodating to visitors on yachts, with the vibrant coastal cities full of restaurants and shopping opportunities. The amazing view of the modern cities with some of the tallest buildings in the world make some great opportunities for photoshoots.

Besides Dubai being so modern and always busy, it also has some breath-taking nature views to offer. For instance, the Palm islands are a great contrasting destination to escape the cities for a day.

Final Word On Winter Yacht Charter

Many people’s ideas of the perfect holiday match up exactly with a boat trip: relaxing and luxurious, yet adventurous. What stops some people from experiencing it is the fear of deep waters. However, a boat trip can actually help you get over the fear of being at sea, which makes it worth trying.

There are many other incredible destinations for yachting holidays. Yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands or the US Virgin islands are some of the most common choices. The beauty of it though, is you can always be on the move and visit a wide variety of destinations in one trip. Go for it!

Bolivia November 9, 2023

Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest is a destination high up on many bucket lists, but given it takes up 40% of South America, it can be hard to know where to begin. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about the Amazon Rainforest, from the best season to visit to the most popular activities. We also compare visiting the Amazon Rainforest in Peru, Brazil, and Ecuador so you know which destination will suit you best.

The best time to visit the Amazon

Obviously, it’s best to wait until after the Covid-19 outbreak has settled and life is back to normal but no matter what season it is, always expect the Amazon to be wet, humid and warm. However two distinct seasons make up the climate of the Amazon, the wet and dry seasons.

The dry season begins in July and lasts until December, temperatures average between 26 to 40ºC (or 78 to 104ºF). You can still expect to endure heavy rain showers, but it is a lot less than compared to the rainy season. This means river levels stay low and it’s easier to explore the jungle on foot.

The wet season runs from January to June and offers cooler temperatures between 23 and 30ºC (73 to 86ºF). The heavy rainfall does make the rainforest a cooler place to explore and the high water levels in the river make cruising easier and give you the option for swimming. However, with more rain comes higher humidity and mosquitos are in abundance.

How to get there

The Amazon is huge, currently occupying 40% of South America, so you’d think visiting it would be easier. The Amazons span from Brazil in the east through to Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia in the west. To get there, the best option is by plane. For Brazil, you can fly directly to Manaus, the biggest city in the Amazon region. If you’re heading to Peru, you can fly directly into Iquitos, this is the same with Ecuador where you can fly from the capital Quito to Coca in only 40 minutes. To see the Amazon in Bolivia it will require more planning and often a flight and then onward transport.

What you can see

The question should be what you can’t see! The Amazon rainforest is home to 10% of the world’s animals, from sloths to monkeys, leopards and toucans. If you are an animal enthusiast, you will be spoilt for choice. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars, so you can get up close to the forest trees and canopies, you never know when you might spot a brightly coloured macaw. But don’t forget to look down at the ground! The rainforest ground is home to many snakes, some deadly such as the anacondas and boa constrictors.
When going on a river cruise you can expect to see capybara’s playing in the wetlands, tapirs and cunning caimans eyeing up dinner. The murky waters are also home to many fish from piranhas to the endangered pink river dolphins.

But it’s not just animals, the Amazon is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna from giant water lily pads to banana trees. The whole rainforest is alive and waiting to be explored.

Activities in the Amazon

There are many activities you can enjoy in the Amazon. The most popular include river cruises and jungle walks. The best time to explore the jungle is night, when it comes alive, opt for an after-dark jungle walk and spot everything from creepy crawlies to armadillos and sun bears. Other activities include learning traditional crafts from native villagers, archery, river rafting, swimming and camping out under the stars. Visiting a native village is a must, it’s important to learn about their connection to the jungle, the role they play as gatekeepers and the importance of their indigenous way of life.

Essentials to pack

The Amazon is hot and humid no matter what the season, so it’s important to pack moisture-wicking clothing. Also, remember long sleeves and long trousers are your best bet. These will help prevent any unwanted insect bites. There are a few other essentials you need to pack
• A head torch for nights in the jungle
• Lots of mosquito spray that has plenty of DEET
• Hiking or walking shoes that are waterproof
• High SPF sunscreen
• A sun hat for when hiking

Also, remember to bring any necessary toiletries or sanitary items. Supplies will be limited in the Amazon and it will be hard to find daily essentials so don’t forget your toothbrush!

How to ensure you travel responsibly

The Amazon rainforest is endangered, so it’s important to ensure your visit helps ensure its survival. You are visiting one of the most diverse eco-climates in the world, it needs to be treated with respect. Remember to take all your rubbish with you and never litter, invest in a reusable bottle with water filtration system and refill it at your hotel or accommodation and try and cut down on your use of throw away plastics.

Remember to always keep a respectful distance from animals and wildlife, this is not only for their protection, but also yours, remember the Amazon is home to many poisonous animals. Listen to your guide, they will always keep you right. Even if you think it’ll make the ultimate selfie, if your guide doesn’t approve it, don’t do it.

Most importantly choose a guide and accommodation option that gives back to the local community. If local people can make a living through tourism, they’ll be less likely to want to damage the Amazon. Some eco-focused accommodation options employ local people and give a percentage of your payment to a local environmental charity. It’s important to research this before going.

Best spots to visit in the Amazon

Below we’ve outlined a few options for you to help you choose the best destination to visit the Amazon.

Manaus, Brazil

Manus is a huge city located in the Amazon, home to around 2 million residents. It is the gateway to the Amazon from Brazil and is a popular spot for tourists to start their journey, because of this, there are plenty of tour operators offering river cruises and trekking trips to suit every budget.

Manaus also has the popular sight dubbed, ‘the meeting of the water.’ This is where the two biggest rivers in Brazil, the Rio Negro and Rio Solimoes meet to form the mighty Amazon. The perfect sight to see before embarking on your Amazon adventure.

Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos, Peru

In Peru, you have two choices for exploring the Amazon. The most popular is Iquitos, which is a big city that is based on the Amazon river. It boasts access to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, which is home to the endangered pink river dolphins. The best way to experience the Amazon here is by staying in a jungle lodge or enjoying a river cruise.

You can reach Iquitos by a direct flight from Lima. However, if you are looking for something quieter then head to Puerto Maldonado which is in the south-east of the country and offers great opportunities for exploring the Tambopata National Reserve. You can reach the area by plane from Lima. There is more emphasis here on rainforest tours and the best way to experience everything the jungle has to offer it’s recommended you stay in a jungle lodge. Accessing the Amazon in Peru is quicker than in Brazil or Ecuador, so it’s common for people to combine a trek of Machu Pichu with a jungle stay in Iquitos.

Coca, Ecuador

Coca is the gateway to the Amazon in Ecuador. Located on the Napo River, the protected areas of Yasuni National Park and Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve are located nearby. If you are looking for quick access to the Amazon, then Ecuador offers this, with flights from Quito to Coca only 40 minutes. The Amazon here is one of the most diverse places on earth. The area is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 600 species being spotted in the park and over a third of the birdlife found in the Amazon calling it home.

Planning a trip to the Amazon?

The last thing you want when travelling to the Amazon is to haul your heavy bags. Have you ever considered using a luggage shipping service like MyBaggage.com? Save money and time by sending your items directly to your destination. Luggage shipping gives you a stress-free alternative, so you don’t have to worry about excessive airline baggage fees or carrying your heavy backpacks through the airport.

Bulgaria March 23, 2022

Top 10 Chic Destinations for Digital Nomads to Live and Work in Luxury

The past few years have seen a huge shift towards remote working, meaning fewer of us are tethered to one location than ever before.

Enter the digital nomad…

Digital nomads are remote workers who usually travel to different locations, prioritising life experiences and close connections. Often working in coffee shops, co-working spaces, or public libraries, they rely on strong internet connections and good technology.

And if you can work from anywhere, why not do it in luxury?

Many digital nomads tend to favour locales with low living costs, but it is absolutely possible to be a digital nomad while living a life of luxury. In fact, the two are wholly compatible. There is currently a somewhat incomplete stereotype that portrays digital nomads solely as backpackers with laptops, but this is only one segment of the digital nomad “population.” Indeed, there are digital nomads who are on shoestring budgets but there are also plenty of multimillionaires who identify as digital nomads.

It’s all relative…

The level of luxury you live at, along with your quality of life, often varies by location. For example, you might be well below the poverty line if your income was $1,000 a month in the United States. But $1,000 a month is ample to live extremely well in a country like Bulgaria or Thailand.

Whatever your budget, here are some of the most luxurious destinations to visit as a citizen of the world.

Our top luxurious locations

Bali, Indonesia

This island needs no introduction. This paradisaical destination tops the list for digital nomads seeking luxury on a budget. Gorgeous villas, perfect coworking cafes and delicious food make it a mecca for travellers and digital nomads alike. You can easily rent an entire villa, hire cleaning staff and have everything you need delivered to your door for very little. Weekly massages, meal prep and daily beach trips become the norm on this island paradise.

Portugal

When it comes to living and working in Europe, digital nomad visa provider, Portugal is a top contender. You can enjoy a much lower cost of living, gorgeous beaches and some of the best food and wine the continent has to offer. Portugal is very safe, the locals are friendly, and you’ll fall in love with the rich, vibrant culture. If you’re a city-dweller at heart, Lisbon or Porto are the best locations for experiencing that perfect cosmopolitan lifestyle. If you’d rather escape to the beaches, you’ll find somewhere on the famous Algarve Coast appealing. Don’t forget Portugal is also home to the first dedicated Digital Nomad Village.

Spain

Next up is Portugal’s neighbour, Spain – also a digital nomad visa provider. What makes Spain the rising luxury destination of Europe? The short answer is its incredibly rich and vibrant culture that sets the stage for culinary, shopping, and many leisure activities. There are nomad hotspots all over the country, both in mainland Spain and on the charming Canary Islands. And in the bustling city of Madrid, you can have a budget of less than $2,000 a month and still live luxuriously.

Mauritius

Mauritius is yet another luxurious island nation that has just launched its own special visa for remote workers. It’s a stunningly beautiful country, with crystal clear water, thick jungle, and epic mountain peaks to climb. To qualify for the Premium Visa, you will need to produce proof of your long stay plans and travel and health insurance during your stay. Remember that luxury scenery and quality living doesn’t always mean luxury health and medical care! With that in mind, it is important to choose an insurance provider that will cover you sufficiently from any location, such as PassportCard Nomads – even more so if you will be moving around a lot!

Colombia

Colombia often gets a bad rap but this beautiful, vibrant country is a great setting for a life of luxury. It’s close to the equator which means you’ll get to enjoy summer vibes all year round and the country is incredibly biodiverse: beaches, mountains… Colombia’s got it all.

Panama

Panama has a large English-speaking population. The Wi-Fi is excellent throughout the country and there’s strong infrastructure and no shortage of amenities. Best of all, Panama is brimming with incredible sights such as the beautiful San Blas islands and the Baru volcano. A little goes a long way in Panama, making it one of the best countries in the world to live in luxury.

Thailand

Thailand has a lot more to offer than its infamous full moon parties. As one of the world’s premier digital nomad hotspots and a country that offers a digital nomad visa, it’s blissfully easy for solo travellers to find community there. If you want to live out your fantasy of working right on the beach, the chilled islands of Koh Lanta and Koh Samui are your best bet. Thailand is also home to an awesome spa culture which makes it possible to treat yourself whenever you like.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a very up-and-coming digital nomad destination. It’s one of the safest and most affordable countries in the world to live in. The two major cities, Saigon and Hanoi, boast excellent Wi-Fi and some beautiful luxury high-rise apartments. Meanwhile, spa treatments, clothing and even sky bar cocktails will barely make a dent in your wallet. If you’d like to live somewhere more scenic, consider the coastal towns of Hoi An and Danang.

Barbados

Barbados is one of the only countries in the world offering a year-long ‘digital nomad’ visa. This means you can live in island paradise long term without having to worry about overstaying or extending. You’ll be able to make yourself a lovely home and live on island time (and within walking distance of idyllic beaches).

Dubai, UAE

Dubai has long held a reputation for being the epitome of luxury due to its magnificent skylines, glistening beaches and opulent hotels. And now, it caters specifically for nomads too. The city has just launched its own one-year virtual working program, allowing digital nomads and remote workers to live and work by the beach from this famous desert oasis mega-city. The new remote work visa gives you the freedom to come to Dubai, bring your family, work remotely all while remaining employed in your home country. Dubai does not levy income tax on individuals, and you can get easy access to all required services, including telecoms, utilities, and schooling options.

What are you waiting for?

If an adventurous lifestyle appeals to you but you want to do it in style, then these are just some of the best countries to visit. And once you know where you want to visit, all you need to do is arm yourself with organisation, a thirst for learning and a travel insurance provider that will cover you in any one of these locations such as nomad insurance specialist PassportCard Nomads, which provides you with a pre-paid little red card that you can use anywhere – without the fuss of filling out endless forms and paying for any claims from your own pocket.

Other than that, simply enjoy your exciting and fulfilling life on the road!

Authored by PassportCard Nomad CEO Leor Catalan.

Colombia November 8, 2021

Castell Son Claret: An ode to an European holiday

Mallorca had always been our one-stop holiday destination. From the multi-family ‘kids of the same age’, fly and flop holidays of our teens where we were allowed to go to Magaluf for one night (albeit with our brothers, cousins and sisters) to finally visiting by ourselves fresh out of university. The island is very special for my best friend and I.

On our girls trips my food and drink memories consist of sipping on cool Cruzcampo cans that we would clandestinely swap for ruby red rioja for any pictures we were snapping. In the evenings we would graze on tomatoes buttery with olive oil and cheap and cheerful squid bought from the local markets that sizzled on the BBQ. Gin and tonics the size of our heads with fresh lemons, sliced Iberico ham, padrón peppers and lashings of aioli would feature during golden hour on the balcony of whichever little apartment Megan and I rented for the week. The sea makes you hungry, and thirsty.

On one of our annual pilgrimages however, we decided to go rogue. It was time for the anti to be upped. For Megan’s birthday we decided to book a table at Zaranda, the only two Michelin-starred restaurant on the Balearic Islands. The restaurant sits snugly within Castell Son Claret, a former 19th century castle and luxury hotel at the foot of the peak ‘Puig de Galatzó’ in the heart of the mountains. We were under no illusion that this was going to be the most extra night of our lives. As it was for a birthday celebration, I told my friend I wasn’t going to get her a card this year, as a way of validating the cost. My acute financial justifications have not advanced since this meal.

Dolled up to the nines in our chicest attire (linen dress from H&M), we indulged in some pre-dinner cocktails. We washed down our excitement with the signature Tramuntana cocktail in the bar at the front of the property and also tried an olive oil daiquiri. In the summer guests can have a pre-dinner drink on the terrace overlooking the gardens, we were travelling off season. Humming with excitement with other eager eaters, we sat tight in the historic cave like watering-hole. We sipped on our signature drinks that were made with sharp lemon juice, palo and homemade syrup made from the surrounding estate. As part of the ‘zero-kilometre cocktail concept’ many ingredients come from the castle’s own garden. After our pre-performance drinks, we moseyed in an almost anti chamber before the curtains into the restaurant opened and we were taken to our seats. We were in for a show. And quite literally, the restaurant offers a view into the kitchen, so guests can voyeuristically catch a glimpse of the chefs at work. We ordered the set menu with the wine pairing. There was a little shuffle with the waiter and the sommelier. Did they not think we could handle it? Megan is size eight, tall and svelte – did they not think she would make it? Bring on the first course.

The first thing that was put before us was plated on an Aztec-styled hand with three gold dusted delicacies that had flavours inspired by three different countries. The waiter introduced it as the ‘Spices Route, The Power of the Hands’. Venezuela was Tequeños, a fried breaded cheese spear. Colombia was Almojábana, a type of bread made with cuajada cheese and corn flour and Mexico was Tostadas de Cochinita Pibil, toasted shredded succulent pork and beans. We were hooked, they had got us and we were ready to eat whatever was put on the table. Nine opulent courses lay ahead. What followed were dishes and flavours that we had never seen or tasted before. There was a course that was lit up with aqua lights serving up sea blow from the Caribbean shores paired with an albariño, the swashbuckling ‘S´Àmfora’ which was paprika spiced octopus and potato veloute with the thick tentacles finding their way out of an intricate vase right before us and the ‘fish market’, a Pho Tai of crustaceans and freshly made succulent noodles. We had gobbled and relished everything so far and took a break whilst we sipped on our 15-year-old sherry from Jerez, like we were returning conquistadors regaling tales from new lands. We laughed out loud at the glorious reactions of other diners as fantastically foods were placed before them. The second half was a blur of intricate, abundant and quite ludicrously delicious treats.

A Mallorcan inspired dish with black egg, white onion and cuttlefish caviar, paired with a stunning crisp white wine from the island, a stew of conger eel with baby peas and potato which we were not hotly anticipating but which was one of the stand out dishes, smooth risotto with spring garlic aioli, juicy veal with Matsu 2015 El Viejo Toro that completely enveloped the taste with its blackberry notes. To finish, we were served the delicious sweet goat’s cheese buratta with strawberries and fresh basil paired with a naturally syrupy Spanish dessert wine from Jumilla that had been aged for three months in oak barrels. We were so full we felt like we needed to age for three months in oak barrels but we had to prove to the restaurant that we were worthy of this feast.

At the end, we hung back like any crazed fan after a London show, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star. To our delight, the famed chef, Fernando P. Arellano came out to chat to his diners and was genuinely interested in what we had to say. Unlike any other dining out experience, we had the time of our lives but knew we would never return. And that was perfect. I looked across the table as the genius chef did the rounds, at my friend who has shaped my life so utterly monumentally and felt lucky we had this moment of indulgence. It was truly worth every penny. The events of 2020 have meant that I will never take for granted easily hopping over for a holiday to Mallorca on a low cost airline for some sun, smell of sun cream, and salty sea. I quite frankly didn’t know how lucky I was. Now more than ever I am so glad we pushed the boat out and have these unbelievable morsels to mull over. We’ve dined out on the memory more times than I can count.

Estate double rooms at Castell Son Claret are priced from Euro 550 (from GBP 469.55) per room per night. Rates include daily breakfast, tax and service. The chef at Zaranda is now Sa Clastra. www.castellsonclaret.com

Colombia March 17, 2021

Five epic Colombian adventures for 2021

Here at House of Coco, as you can imagine, we have some seriously itchy feet but with travel back on the near horizon, travellers eager to embark on epic adventures need look no further than Colombia. From vibrant cities to unexplored jungles, incredible wildlife and a variety of ecosystems, from Salsa beats to the best epicurean trails, Colombia has it all.

The Lost City trek: a Colombian adventure to top Machu Picchu

Hidden deep in the jungle of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains sits Ciudad Perdida, the ‘Lost City’. Built by the Tairona people more than 1,000 years ago in 800AD, the Lost City is more than 600 years older than Machu Picchu. Astonishingly quiet and still largely undiscovered, the Lost City can only be accessed by a single trail traversing forests of exotic flora and fauna, crossing waterfalls and hanging bridges. After days trekking in the jungle, a final challenging climb up 1,200 stone steps reveals the ancient entrance. Although 90% of the Lost City still lies under thick jungle, upon reaching the summit, hikers will discover a series of 169 terraces, a net of tiled roads, and several small circular plazas, all perched high up in the lush jungle mountaintops. Led by a local guide, the rewarding experience will also support sustainable community-led tourism in the region, specifically the rural communities of Kogi ‘jaguar’ and Wiwa people, descendants of the Tairona tribe. Awe-inspiring and remote, a trek to Colombia’s Lost City is 2021’s ultimate challenge.

G Adventures offers a seven-day Lost City Trek from £441 per person. www.gadventures.com

Dancing through Cali, the salsa capital of the world

Cali, the salsa capital of the world is a city with music and rhythm pulsing through its veins. With lively salsa bars and fun-loving locals, the city’s sizzling nightlife is world-renowned and makes visitors feel truly alive. Colombia is hailed as the Land of more than 1,000 rhythms with every corner of the country moving to its own distinct beat, and Cali is famed for its salsa scene and local interpretations of the dance. Visitors can take private daily lessons with a Cali dance instructor who will teach them the ‘salsa choke’, the city’s latest salsa trend, as well as the classic salsa, the mambo and the bachata. Key skills are taught in the classroom but the bars are where dancers will master the attitude. Locally-revered dance spots welcome tourists and beginners with open arms, capturing Cali’s zeal for life. Tin Tin Deo is an old school salsa bar that comes alive with locals at weekends, and continuing on to the thriving string of bars on La Sexta means visitors can dance until the early hours. Over Christmas and New Year, locals celebrate the vivacious culture of the city when ‘La Feria de Cali’ comes to town. This five-day celebration is Cali’s biggest annual event with salsa marathons, all-night dance parties and horseback parades taking place.

Responsible Travel offers a Salsa Holiday in Cali, Colombia trip from £975 per person. www.responsibletravel.com

Discover the only South American country with coastlines on two oceans

Colombia is the only South American country with coastlines on the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, offering a variety of different beach escapes. Along the Caribbean coast, travellers can visit archipelagos of quiet Caribbean islands surrounded by azure waters, where sandy beaches nestle against deep jungles. One of the jewels of the area is Tayrona National Park, a lush, tropical protected area where the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains meet the ocean. Dozens of secret trails and jungle routes through the park lead to quiet beaches, where travellers can soak up the laid-back vibes. Heading west, Colombia’s Pacific ocean is where action-packed, opportunities await. Rugged and dramatic, Colombia’s Pacific beaches are home to world-class scuba diving spots, miles of deep, unexplored rainforests and remote beach lodges. Travellers can catch coveted glimpses of humpback whales from July to November, as they journey 8,500 kilometres from Antarctica to the warm waters of the Colombian Pacific Coast to give birth to their calves. With some of Colombia’s best waves, the secluded Pacific waters also attract surfers who see the area as Latin America’s final surfing frontier.

Abercrombie & Kent offers a Colombia: Caribbean Coast to Pacific Coast 12-night trip from £4,999 per person. www.abercrombiekent.co.uk

An intrepid Amazonian discovery

Referred to locally as Amazonia, Colombia’s Amazon region is a vast slice of rainforest that accounts for a third of the country’s total area, yet feels worlds away. The lush rainforests are home to chattering monkeys and sloths hanging from high branches, whilst exotic toads and frogs take shelter on the forest floors. Along the river on the way to the entirely car-free village of Puerto Nariño, visitors can catch coveted sightings of black crocodiles and the Amazon’s pink river dolphin. Tourism is still relatively undeveloped in Amazonia, with little human impact on nature and the indigenous population. Encounters with Colombian Amazon locals provide crucial insights into this beguiling region: most inhabitants belong to indigenous riverside communities such as the Mocaguans, the Ticunas and the Yaguas, who are self-governed according to ancient traditions and beliefs. Visitors can become immersed in the natural and laid-back way of life in the Colombian Amazon, discovering some of the least explored territories of an already intrepid region.

Journey Latin America offers an Off the Beaten Track Colombia: San Agustin and the Amazon 13-day trip from £3,130 per person. www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk

A tale of two cities, from Bogotá to Cartagena

City lovers will not be disappointed by the array of choice in Colombia. Travellers can begin in the high-altitude capital of Bogotá, before heading north to Cartagena, the electric city that reigns as the queen of the Caribbean coast. Bogotá has been a mecca for street artists since graffiti was legalised in 2011, with intricate urban artwork adorning the buildings and public spaces. In historic downtown, La Candelaria is Bogotá’s cultural epicentre and home to some of the country’s most renowned museums including Museo Botero, where one of Latin America’s most important art collections is found. Bogotá also offers a taste of regional Colombian delicacies at LEO, the innovative restaurant founded by Latin America’s game-changing chef Leonor Espinosa, which serves the ancient, ancestral flavours of the nation. Visitors can also indulge in the famous coffee region to reach Cartagena, the brightly coloured coastal city that oozes romance and charms with its traditional architecture, ancient walled city centre and cobbled streets. Local music and rhythms flow through the city, with lively festivals and buzzing nightlife that keep Cartagena moving year-round. Bocagrande beach’s sandy shoreline is just 10 minutes outside Old Town, and to really escape the city, the archipelago of islands just off Cartagena’s coastline boast some of the finest beaches in Colombia.

Hayes & Jarvis offers a Colombia Tour From Bogota 7-night trip from £2,399 per person www.hayesandjarvis.co.uk

Australia January 18, 2021

11 new coffee brands you simply have to try in 2021

If you’re sat firmly on your seat on the ‘new year new me’ train then we salute you as December turning into January is a great time to embark on new missions, as a new metaphorical life chapter begins.

And one such change could be the coffee you drink. Perhaps you’re looking for that same buzz you get from your local coffee shop, but from the comfort of your own home? Or maybe you’d like to devote yourself to a new bean or a lighter roast? If you want to roast your coffee on your own you have to check Coffee Bean Roaster for the best coffee roaster to choose.

We’ve delved into a handful of coffee brands which are doing wonderful things. From Chimney Fire which began in a garden shed, to Exhale’s healthy coffee, championing beans from Rubiaceae cherries that are simply bursting with antioxidants.

Whatever your pour, it’s never too latte to try a new type of coffee (see what we did there?) So here are ten of our favourites for you to try in 2021…

Chimney Fire Coffee

Chimney Fire Coffee is a speciality coffee roaster based in Surrey, and their ethically sourced coffee beans are simply amazing. Despite only being a team of six, this intelligent group are extremely passionate about their coffee, from Founder Dan Webber to Head Roster Elizabeth Furth.

Try their Peru Coffee, or Ethiopia Tega and Tula, or opt for the January Discovery Coffee which has notes of tomato jam, orange and dried organic dates. Plus, even more of a reason to try, £1 of every 1kg bag of Discovery Coffee is donated to Re-Cycle.

chimneyfirecoffee.com

Exhale Coffee

If you’re on a health kick this year then Exhale Coffee is a cup in the right direction. Exhale have packed their pour with beans which have big health benefits, with one cup of this coffee containing the same antioxidant power as 12 punnets of blueberries, 55 oranges of 1.2kg of kale, making your coffee addiction a little more guilt-free.

Exhale’s speciality coffee has been crafted for health and you don’t have to sacrifice taste when changing to this wholesome brand. And to appease your inner eco-warrior, Exhale also coin waste to be a “dirty word” and they deliver their coffee in plastic free packaging, with a mission to triumph in ethical sourcing and organic farming practices.

Exhale is the brainchild of founder Alex, a former accountant who has “obsessively researched” health and coffee, and how the two can be a match made in heaven. Exhale coffee is something you simply have to try this 2021.

Exhalecoffee.com

Balance Coffee

Balance Coffee describe themselves as “the brand born in lockdown that gives back,” and they certainly do just that. Balance Coffee are on a mission to deliver high-quality coffee to doorsteps, which is an innovative and much-needed concept amid the lockdown pandemic. Most importantly, the coffee is sensational and from first opening you can smell the delicious beans. Rich in flavour, it’s your perfect morning fix and what’s even better is that you’re contributing to planting new trees by buying it – bonus!

Plus, as well as offering moreish coffee and their coffee subscription service, Balance Coffee has created an online Balance Barista School. Founder and coffee aficionado James Bellis says: “With lots of people now joining our online coffee subscription, we launched this educational content hub to help anyone improve their coffee making at home”.

balancecoffee.co.uk

Brown Bear

This high-quality coffee brand is a must-try, and especially their Mountain Blend.Your palette will delight in rich tastes and a smooth texture, and 5 per cent of sales is donated to Free the Bears charity, protecting vulnerable bears across the world – cute! The sweet and malty flavour will see you supercharged for the day, and the packaging is super cool too!

Brownbear.co

Yallah

Cornwall-based Yallah roasters produce some seriously amazing coffee. Try their Las Cotorra which comes from a farm of the same name in Chiapas, Mexico. This delicious coffee has notes of cocoa, cashews and cream.

The name Cotorras is from a species of bird from the region, where a protected forest houses many plant and animal species. Also, on the Yallah menu is an Ethiopian origin blend from the Worka Smallholders producer. Roasted on a lighter side, the notes of pineapple, apricot and jasmine could accompany your dessert!

yallahcoffee.co.uk

Manumit

Manumit produces quality roasts and have a dedicated team whose motto is ‘For Freedom not Profit’. Rigorous research is done to create solid relationships with their coffee farmers. You can taste the passion of Manumit in their blends. Try Global Justice, from Brazil, with tastes of chocolate, toffee and citrus. Another is Pearl Mountain which has floral notes of hazelnut, chocolate and truffle. For decaf fans, try their Rwandan lime, chocolate and caramel. Manumit deliver to shops, work and places of worship. You can’t hide from this UK favourite.

manumitcoffee.co.uk

Square Mile Coffee Roasters

Multi-award-winning company Square Mile Coffee, founded in 2008, have 25 coffee professionals at your service! Their website shows a map with links to where their coffee houses are in London and, like many of the roasters, they sell great merchandise too.

This company will post you The World Atlas of Coffee 2nd Edition or a great sample coffee pack to lure your taste buds. Perhaps their most popular is the Amaluza is Loja, which is an Ecuadorean coffee combining fruits such as figs and apricot and a sweet and creamy addition of hazelnut. Kick back at break time and turn up the Ecuador music compilation and really enjoy the moment.

squaremilecoffee.com

Maude Coffee

If there’s one thing you should do this year, it’s try out the Rwanda roast from Maude Coffee. The taste is a delicious concoction of milk chocolate, lime and caramel; perfect to have if you’re out of chocolate and crave the taste! The beans are washed and go through a decaffeination process that uses CO2 to extract all the caffeine. With that and the use of charcoal and water, the cup of coffee is chemical free and all by-products recyclable and natural. Ticking the boxes is what we crave and another popular UK choice.

maudecoffee.co.uk

D’NISI

When this company won the Best Café with on-sight Roasting ‘Crema’ award in Scotland’s 2018 Café Awards, they adopted their motto: “The heart of our brand is our coffee, and we are passionate about it.” And at this popular café, where coffee is micro roasted in-house, popular quenchers are Flavoured Latte, blended with syrup and textured milk, Macchiato Caldo and Mochaccino with chocolate. Delicious!

dnisi.com

Taylors of Harrogate

Travelling back south from Scotland and here we have an independent family tea and coffee company dating back to 1886, which is still a huge favourite for their coffees in 2021. With the motto: “People are at the Heart of our Business” Taylors of Harrogate source the best coffees and teas from over one million farmers and workers in 24 countries.

Having switched to 100 per cent renewable gas and electricity and using solar panels and carbon neutrality you can trust that sitting back in your armchair with a cup of one of their delights will be an experience. Try the Lazy Sunday. A sip of this coffee fills you with smooth milk chocolate and citrus, while other favourites include Hot Lava, Praline Especial Brazil, Cacao Superior Colombia and Rich Italian.

taylorsofharrogate.co.uk

Rave

Rave coffee really gives you something to rave about. Not only do their unique bags pop with colour, but what’s inside is a total treat too. These guys create blends by mixing single-origin coffee, giving it a more complex flavour than a single estate alone.

Try their Italian Job blend which works a treat for espresso lovers. It has a bold taste of dark chocolate flavours and walnut. Other must tastes are the Colombia Villamaria Natural No 103, and Guatemala El Morito No 97. Rave mix the fruity, citrus and floral notes well, with nuts and spice. Sounds good enough to us!

ravecoffee.co.uk

Colombia December 17, 2020

Coffee While Traveling: In Which Countries It Is Better to Avoid Drinking Coffee

Almost every traveler knows about the benefits of coffee. This drink allows you to cheer up, get a boost of energy and a positive mood. That is why many travelers drink coffee to learn about the recipe differences and experience new flavoring intonations. But there are countries where you better not drink coffee. This is due to many nuances. Here is a list of countries where you should drink coffee exclusively in a hotel or expensive coffee houses.

Zimbabwe

At first glance, this may seem counterintuitive since this country is one of the largest African coffee exporters. But the problem is that all high-quality grains are exported. Local coffee shops are notorious for brewing low-quality coffee with husks. As a result, your drink will taste very bitter. Even a lot of milk, sugar, or syrups will not save this coffee.

This is not a country where you can enjoy a hot drink made with the best Colambian coffee beans. Of course, you can find good coffee at inexpensive hotels or coffee shops, but there are not very many places like this in Zimbabwe. Besides, this country has problems with drinking water, and local coffee shops do not always buy purified water for making drinks.

Mongolia

Not so long ago, Mongolia began to produce coffee, but this does not mean that travelers can choose any coffee house and not worry about quality. The fact is that tea is still considered the main drink in this country. Traditional recipes include adding butter, lamb fat, or horse milk. If you are visiting small towns, villages, or wilderness, you should avoid the local hot drinks.

For example, local reindeer herders add fat to coffee. This is not the best combination for a tourist. Your untrained stomach is unlikely to thank you. You should avoid coffee in Mongolia or only drink it in cafeterias. Then you will not be in for an unpleasant surprise.

Syria

Even though there are coffee factories and even plantations in Syria, you should not drink this drink in this country. The trip itself will be unsafe. But let’s abstract from military operations and concentrate on hot drinks. Most coffee factories are now temporarily suspended. Coffee imports are too small to cover the needs of the population. Even the best budget coffee makers are very rare for this country at the moment.

Those cafes and coffee houses that still work use barley, coffee husks, or those beans that have remained from the pre-war period. This greatly affects the quality of the hot drink. Even milk or sweets cannot drown out the bitter or too sour taste of the coffee. That is why you should buy beans in advance for your favorite drink and prepare it yourself using a coffee pot.

Somalia

If you decide to visit this country as a tourist, then you are already at great risk. But even if you are not afraid of local pirates and criminal gangs, you should still be careful with what you eat and drink. The fact is that Zimbabwe is experiencing serious problems with clean water. Even purified and bottled liquid may not meet international standards.

As a result, your coffee can be harmful to your body. Another problem is that tourists are cheated in cafes and coffee shops. You won’t get natural coffee here. Baristas use chicory and coffee peels.

The alcohol trick is also common here. Baristas offer you alcoholic coffee, arguing that it is something like a national drink. If you agree, then you will make a big mistake. Instead of high-quality alcohol, local cafeterias use alcohol. This helps to mask the bitter and burnt taste of the coffee beans.

Sri Lanka

This country is famous for its tea, which is grown on local plantations. Also, coffee production is established here. But local coffee shops are not the best place for tourists. The fact is that local coffee does not differ in its exquisite taste or aroma. Many baristas in the country use flavor enhancers to mask the poor quality of the beans.

Sri Lanka is also known for its original spice coffee recipe. But this is a very specific drink. You can burn your taste buds. Plus, spices are another way to disguise low-quality coffee beans. The fact is that there are no specialized storage facilities in this country, and coffee beans are quickly damp.

Conclusion

You should remember that many factors are affecting the quality of coffee in every country. That is why you should be wary of this drink and trust only a few branded coffee shops. This is especially true for the countries listed above. Sometimes it will be wiser to skip this drink for a while or bring some delicious coffee with you. Then you can prepare a cup of an aromatic drink at the hotel.