About Babette Donaldson
Posts by Babette
Tea Times in Beijing
Beijing Wholesale Tea Market
Talking tea in Beijing is not about the pastoral plantation. One of our first official tea experiences on the tour was to a tea marketplace. Nestled between the tourist sites is a small area that could best be described as a tea mall. It is a huge area with a two-story interior [...]
The China Trip – Again, From the Top
Nǐ hǎo (Hello)
As you may have noticed, I couldn’t maintain regular blogs during the World Tea Tour of China. There were three reasons.
1. Limited internet access and blocks on blogging and social networking sites.
2. Not enough time. The schedule was far more intense than I had imagined. Our Fearless Leader, Dan Robertson, filled each day [...]
Arriving in Bejiing
No airport photos. No beautiful hotel staircases. No streets crowded with bicycles. The first photo I offer is the organic green tea I had at our hotel.
Of course, the aiport photo would have been stunningly beautiful. The new international terminal is remarkable. And the hotel lobby is lovely and welcoming. It is located in the [...]
I’m Going To China
This is a dream come true and just beginning to feel real. Bags packed. Itinerary printed. Documents in order. That includes the Visa which required a drive to San Francisco with my passport in hand. In many ways, my trip to the Chinese Consulate was the first day of the trip.
What’s International About ITSS?
This is one of the questions I’m often asked. And there are several excellent and obvious answers.
Tea is an international beverage.
Tea is the 2nd most consumed beverage in the world; second only to water.
People who are ‘into’ tea are often interested in world travel.
Cultural values can often be understood by studying their tea traditions.
The unique [...]
How to Become an ITSS Vendor
We are continuing our launch special from the World Tea Expo. Registering as a vendor today will give you a free one-year membership.
Who’s Who In Tea Land?
What is a Tea Professional? Who are they?
How do you become one?
Tea’s newest wave of popularity is fueled by interest in the health benefits, the lure of international travel, the seduction of history, the flamboyance of fiction and the satisfaction of gathering with friends over a Cuppa. These and many more tea professionals have been almost invisible to the general public. But each has unique expertise in their devotion to tea.