I cannot deny the world's undying love for coffee. The way it tastes, the ritual of that first cup in the morning, the cozy feeling it brings - coffee seems to have a special place in people's hearts.
But, for me, it's a different story.
The Love-Hate Relationship
I appreciate many aspects associated with coffee - the aroma, the ambiance of coffee shops, the intricate coffee machines. I even enjoy the enthusiasm of baristas as they prepare a cup. The coffee culture fascinates me, from French presses to Lotus biscuits.
Yet, despite all this, one thing remains certain:
Coffee Disappointment
Despite numerous attempts to savor and appreciate coffee, I have always been left unimpressed. Encouraging words from coffee enthusiasts to try 'the best coffee ever' have only resulted in grimaces and spilled drinks.
It seems that my taste buds simply do not align with the rest of the coffee-loving world.
A World of Coffee Adventures
My coffee journey has taken me to the heart of Java, where the famed coffee originates. Surrounded by the lush greenery and rich history of coffee production, I hoped to find a newfound appreciation. However, the reality was far from my expectations.
Even the renowned Kopi Luwak made from civet cat-eaten beans failed to win me over.
Continued Disappointment
My quest for a coffee that I enjoy led me to Colombia, a coffee lover's paradise, or so I thought. Even in the bustling cafes of Bogotá, where 'the best coffee' is a mantra, my coffee experience fell flat.
I found solace in the Colombian tradition of pairing hot chocolate with a slice of cheese - now, that felt right.
Tea Time Tragedy
As a Brit, my allegiance has always been towards tea. However, the rising coffee culture in the UK has made finding a humble cup of tea a luxury. Traditional tea cafes have made way for corporate coffee giants, pushing tea to the sidelines.
The struggle is even more real in the US, where a decent cup of tea is a rare find amidst the sea of lukewarm imitations.
Final Thoughts
In the end, I realize that the problem lies not with coffee, but with me. While others revel in the joys of coffee, I am left pondering our strained relationship. Perhaps, with time and space, there may come a day when coffee and I can coexist harmoniously. But until then, the quest for that perfect cup continues.