Sun 23rd March
After a good nights sleep in the enormous bed, I wake at 5am to the sound of thunder. The heavily falling rain, scuppered the early dawn filming plans. A welcomed cup of tea arrives, it's warm amber glow contrasted with the cool cloud filled skies.
After a good nights sleep in the enormous bed, I wake at 5am to the sound of thunder. The heavily falling rain, scuppered the early dawn filming plans. A welcomed cup of tea arrives, it's warm amber glow contrasted with the cool cloud filled skies.
Delightful smells drifted in from the kitchen. At least our delayed start means we can all tuck in to a delicious breakfast of rice, peas, omelette and toast.
The rain finally stops and we set off around 7am, film crew, equipment, the star of the Nestle show - Mr Jangpana Tea himself, Shantanu and me! We head off in a convoy, down the narrowest most precarious mountain road, barely wide enough for one vehicle. Our driver skilfully weaved his way down, negotiating countless hair pin bends, some so tight, it was impossible to turn in one go so a special wheel spinning reversing technique was required. The views across the tea filled valley to the Jungpana factory were spectacular.
The rain finally stops and we set off around 7am, film crew, equipment, the star of the Nestle show - Mr Jangpana Tea himself, Shantanu and me! We head off in a convoy, down the narrowest most precarious mountain road, barely wide enough for one vehicle. Our driver skilfully weaved his way down, negotiating countless hair pin bends, some so tight, it was impossible to turn in one go so a special wheel spinning reversing technique was required. The views across the tea filled valley to the Jungpana factory were spectacular.
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After countless twists and turns we finally stopped at the bottom of the river valley - the end of the road. It was all on foot from here. The only way up to the factory was across a rickety wooden bridge and then up 380 Steep Stone steps! Luckily I didn't have to carry any equipment. I went on up ahead and was meet by the Deputy Manager a very charming young lady. While the film crew were busy, she showed me around the beautiful tea gardens and the factory. We finished off with a special tea tasting, 13 different 1st flush teas had been careful prepared in the tasting room. I watched in awe as the manager slurped his way through the varying amber glowing bowls. He made the most amazing slurping sound. This was a real Tea Master at work! Then it was my turn. I definitely need to improve my slurping technique.
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Back in the peace and tranquility of Goomtee. I sit in the beautiful flower filled gardens which surround the bungalow. The warmth of the Spring sun reminds me of home. I close my eyes and drink in the sweet scented air, an intoxicating blend of roses, carnations, jasmine and just a hint of tea. The sound of children playing, dogs barking, cockerels crowing, exotic birds tweeting and the occasional honk of a horn echos through the hills as the sun slowly dips down and the temperature drops.
After a beauTEAful day. I sip another cup of delicious Darjeeling all alone in my huge bedroom, a room almost the size of my house! Feeling a little like Alice in Wonderland, wondering what adventures tomorrow will bring.
After a beauTEAful day. I sip another cup of delicious Darjeeling all alone in my huge bedroom, a room almost the size of my house! Feeling a little like Alice in Wonderland, wondering what adventures tomorrow will bring.
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