A survey of 2,000 globetrotters revealed that 51% have packed their own teabags when travelling abroad. In a surprising twist, 37% have even taken their own kettle, mug or sugar bowl. The study also found that 76% believe a cuppa just doesn't taste the same overseas.
The research was commissioned by MSC Cruises, who have sourced British tap water from across the country and an extensive tea 'library' full of UK favourites for its ship, MSC Virtuosa, setting sail from Southampton this summer, as part of a trial. A spokesperson for the company said: "Brits are very particular about their tea, and they should be. When it doesn't taste right abroad it can change the whole experience.
It might be that the tea bags are wrong, or the water tastes off or it might be the UHT milk it's very hard to replicate the components that make the perfect cuppa when you're not at home." "Whether accustomed to very hard tap water from London, moderate water from Birmingham or soft water from Dundee, we know that even the water can affect the taste. We think tea lovers on board will be impressed with the variety of bottled British tap water to suit their preferences.
It means our guests can have a cuppa that tastes just like one they'd make at home." The study further discovered that nearly six in 10 (58%) believe sipping British tea abroad can enhance the overall holiday experience, at least slightly. More than one in 10 Brits (11%) reckon it's a real struggle to get a proper brew when they're gal.
