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Dear Wellness Seekers,
Love London, Love Fortnum & Mason, Love Jasmine Green Tea is a story that begins with one of my favorite Spring memories – visiting London – just days before the royal wedding of Kate and William in 2011. The buzz in the city as it anticipated the big event was palpable. And indeed it was the wedding of the century. Hard to think they now are parents of gorgeous George and a baby sibling to come into the world very soon.
Spending time on Oxford Street in central London is a must. While there is a range of fashion shopping destinations for every lifestyle. One of the must stops for Spanista’s seeking self care sustenance after hours of walking about while navigating the large crowds of tourists is Fortnum & Mason, Piccadilly since 1707. (Yes, that is right 1707!) The location on Oxford Street is the original location and when you enter it you feel Victorian history come alive – the spirits of patrons before embrace you. It is unlike any other place in the world – steeped in tradition.
Fortnum & Mason is the most luxurious a department store in the world situated in central London since in 1707 founded by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason. Fortnum & Mason is recognised internationally for its high quality goods, especially its teas, hampers, biscuits and chocolates and as an iconic British symbol. It has held many Royal Warrants over the past 150 years. Founded as a grocery store, Fortnum’s reputation was built on supplying quality food, and saw rapid growth throughout the Victorian era when it established several restaurants. Though Fortnum’s developed into a department store, it continues to focus on stocking a variety of exotic, speciality and also ‘basic’ provisions with tradition. The store has since opened several other departments, such as the Gentlemen’s department on the top floor. It is also the location of a celebrated tea shop and several restaurants. And just yesterday they announced they will offer honey from the Duchess of Cornwall’s bees! Really they are Camilla’s bee honey!
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This special destination experience starts with entertaining window dressings. The creative presentations are extraordinary – both delectable and fun. So imaginative and colorful. The type of perfect escape that tickles a Spanista. One can not help but be charmed by it all no matter the temperatures outdoors. Two video links above give you a flavour.
On my trips there, I fell in love with Fortnum & Mason’s specialty Jasmine Green Tea and of course the traditional ways they serve it. So civilized – My British friends think taking time to prepare and enjoy a cup of tea can aid in solving any problem life throws your way. And once I learned how to create a proper ritual of it, I too believe this to be true.
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China is home to the world’s best jasmine. Dawn picked flowers open towards the end of the day to release their heady aroma. Selected green tea is allowed to absorb this natural sent, producing an orangey-gold liquid with a delicate taste and reliably alluring fragrance.
I have tasted many blends of Jasmine Tea but nothing a luscious as this. This is top grade. Like coffee or wine you can educate yourself to taste the difference with focus. I wait to have it on Easter Weekend so that I can enjoy is anew every year.
Spanista Takeaway: Love London, Love Fortnum & Mason, Love Jasmine Green Tea sets to mind a relaxing yet refined chic Easter Ritual – but you do not have to go to London to get it. Perhaps an afternoon tea properly staged with the right ingredients and people could make for an enchanting team time Fortnum & Mason style. Enjoy!
To Your Self Care Journey To Joy,
Ginny
