Prelude: The Dream Journey of a Coffee Enthusiast
As a devout coffee enthusiast, I have always been captivated by the mystique of this universal brew. Its aroma, taste, and invigorating power have been my daily solace. But my love for coffee extends beyond the confines of my morning mug. I yearn to explore its origins, understand its cultivation, and witness firsthand the passion that goes into creating each cup. That’s why I’ve envisioned a dream journey, an exploration of the coffee culture in two of the most renowned coffee-producing countries in the world: Ethiopia and Colombia. It’s a journey that will take me from the birthplace of coffee, steeped in ancient tradition, to a nation that has transformed coffee cultivation into a fine art. This diary reflects that dream journey, a pilgrimage I hope to undertake, tracing the path of coffee from bean to cup.
Entry 1: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Arrival and The Birthplace of Coffee
My journey begins in Ethiopia, considered the birthplace of coffee. My first stop was Addis Ababa, the country’s capital, where I discovered the deep-rooted coffee culture. I visited the National Museum of Ethiopia, where I gained a greater understanding of the country’s rich history and, of course, its deep connection to coffee. I explored a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony – a time-honored tradition that’s as much about community as it is about the drink itself.
Entry 2: Sidamo, Ethiopia – Coffee Farms and Forests
Travelling south, I journeyed to Sidamo, home to some of the best coffee in the world. I walked through lush coffee forests and witnessed how coffee grows in its natural habitat. I observed coffee beans being harvested by skilled farmers who taught me the process from bean to cup. The local coffee, known for its light body and complex flavor profile, was unlike any I’ve tasted before.
Entry 3: Yirgacheffe, Ethiopia – A Coffee Connoisseur’s Dream
Next, I arrived in Yirgacheffe, a region known for producing some of the world’s most distinctive coffees. The hand-picked beans here are washed and sun-dried, giving them a unique, fruity flavor profile. Savoring a cup of Yirgacheffe coffee, with its bright acidity and tea-like characteristics, was a truly unforgettable experience.
Entry 4: Departing Ethiopia – The Cradle of Coffee
Before departing Ethiopia, I had the chance to partake in one more traditional coffee ceremony. The feeling of unity and warmth in these gatherings was truly inspiring. The coffee, always served black, tasted even more wonderful, perhaps owing to the rich culture and tradition infused into each cup.
Entry 5: Bogotá, Colombia – New Terrain, Familiar Aroma
Arriving in Bogotá, Colombia, I could feel the shift in culture, yet the love for coffee was just as deep. Colombia’s rich volcanic soil, altitude, and climate make it a perfect landscape for coffee growing. I visited the famous Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learned about the country’s history and deep connection to coffee production.
Entry 6: Salento, Colombia – Into the Coffee Triangle
Salento, part of Colombia’s famed Coffee Triangle, was my next stop. Here, amidst lush coffee plantations, I learned about the production process of Colombian coffee, which is typically washed, giving it a clean taste and bright acidity. The fresh brew, paired with breathtaking views of the Andean landscape, was simply exquisite.
Entry 7: Medellín, Colombia – A Taste of Innovation
In Medellín, I witnessed how the city has innovatively integrated its coffee culture into modern cafes, pushing the boundaries of brewing methods and presentations. The diverse selection of coffee, from single-origin varieties to blends, was both inspiring and overwhelming. The vibrant city life, coupled with its rich coffee culture, made my visit to Medellín a thrilling experience.
Entry 8: Farewell, Colombia – A Journey Through the World of Coffee
As I leave Colombia, I can’t help but reflect on this incredible journey. From Ethiopia, where coffee has its roots, to Colombia, where coffee production has been refined into an art form, it has been a voyage of discovery. The aroma, taste, and ritual of coffee have shown me the profound impact this humble bean has on communities around the world.
Every coffee lover should make this journey… I’m sure our paths would cross along the way. If not, we can send a postcard.
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