Many of us don’t fully open our eyes each morning until after that first cup of joe. Whether you crave light, medium or dark roasts, or can’t tell the difference amongst the three, there’s value in knowing where your coffee stems from. These beloved beans are grown around the globe, and each area offers varying notes and flavor profiles. So get out of your comfort zone, and prepare to travel to the world's best coffee producers.
Hawaii
Big Island tourists might expect to enjoy a bounty of pineapple and poke after landing, but they can also enjoy quality Hawaiian coffee. The 50th state, only one of two in the U.S. to grow coffee, has several thriving orchards located within the Kona Coffee Belt, which stretches almost two-thirds of the west side of the island. Beans thrive in the region thanks to its high elevation, cloud coverage and rich soil from the Hualalai Volcano, and because of the area’s various microclimates, each crop offers distinctive and delicious flavors. Guests interested in learning more about these extraordinary beans should book a tour. Participants will see the journey coffee goes through — growing, drying, processing and roasting the beans — before it takes its final form. Be sure to select a tour that offers on-site tastings, like Rooster Farms, Buddha’s Cup and Sunshower Coffee Farm, to satisfy each of their senses.
Costa Rica
Also known for its volcanic soil, warm temperatures and consistent rainfall, Costa Rica is home to some of the most beloved coffee in the world. There’s no secret behind what beans you will enjoy. While there are eight different growing regions in Costa Rica, the country only grows Arabica beans, but that doesn’t mean the final result is one note. Coffee from the West Valley carries hints of vanilla and honey while Brunca’s tropical climate produces coffee with touches of citrus. If you’re eager to experience the full coffee scene, head down to San José and book a tour with Café Britt. Its traditional tour gives guests the opportunity to see how beans are selected, harvested, roasted and cupped, all with an entertainment flair. But the group also offers various other experiences, with days out including walking the area’s trails to see various waterfalls and ziplining through a dense forest canopy. Regardless of your choice, it’s sure to be a spirited day of exploring.
Ethiopia
Home of the aforementioned Arabica bean (it literally grows in the wild), Ethiopia is known for its quality single-origin coffee. Its three primary growing regions — Yirgacheffe, Sidamo and Harrar — offer distinctive yet delicious flavors. Fruity notes can be found in Yirgacheffe’s coffee while Harrar is known for its floral and acidic qualities. No matter the area, Ethiopian coffee is recognizable thanks to its vibrancy. The African country is one of the oldest nations in the world, ensuring that historical sights and attractions are just as bountiful as its coffee trees. Make the most out of your trip with a visit to Addis Ababa, its capital, which can include everything from visiting insightful museum excursions to indulging in its rich cuisine.
Colombia
Also focusing on Arabica beans, Colombia has made itself a staple within the coffee industry thanks to the various small farms that produce quality beans. The country uniquely has two harvest seasons thanks to its proximity to the Equator, securing its place as the third-largest coffee producer in the world. While coffee thrives throughout Colombia thanks to its varying climate and elevations, the most productive zone is the coffee triangle, consisting of the rural area between Caldas, Risaralda and Quindio. The northern edge of the country normally creates less acidic coffee that has more body, while the southern region’s coffee carries hints of citrus. Celebrate the entire region’s bounty at Parque del Café, a coffee theme park in Quindio complete with a museum, theater show and rides. It’s a great way to enthuse your kids, or non-coffee drinkers, about the trip. Scheduling other tourism excursions, including kayaking, rafting, surfing and hiking, might also do the trick.