Is there a finer drink in the world than tea? If there is then I have not yet tried it. Tea is the ultimate drink for all situations. Refreshing on a hot day and warming on a cold day tea can be drunk at any time of the day and in any situation. Synonymous with the British Empire tea is the favoured drink of many ex colonial countries across the world.

As a result it has become popular in countries with all types of different climates. I have been fortunate to pursue my passion for tea by visiting some of the exotic localities in which it is grown. For many countries tea is more than just a drink and it comprises a large section of their export budget.

It is an economic benefit to a country and two of my favourite tea producing areas in the world produce tea as a method of sustaining communities. Whole communities rely on the income from tea and as a result tea is not just a delicious drink but also a valuable commodity. I have been fortunate enough to travel to the source of some of the world's most beautiful tea plantations.

Whilst tea seems to be synonymous with the English there are a number of places in the world that challenge this perception. Often found in areas of the world that are not the most affluent there are some extremely vibrant communities that produce tea.

The reputation for tea as a very English drink is interesting as tea has its roots in a number of extremely exotic parts of the world. The word tea actually derives from the Chinese word that is pronounced te. It is also the case that the majority of the tea that is enjoyed in the UK is blended from tea leaves sourced from all over the globe.

Mulanje, Malawi

The Sub-Saharan country of Malawi is a peaceful ex colony that is renowned for the friendliness of its people and the beauty of its massive 365 mile long lake. To the south of the stunning lake the country boasts an impressive mountain region named Mulanje. This region produces much of the countries tea stock and with Malawi currently accounting for around 3 percent of the world's tea production it is an extremely important region for the country's struggling economy.

Aside from its economic importance the region is incredibly beautiful. The rich green tea plantations nestle at the foot of the imposing mount Mulanje and provide a vibrant spectacle in a country that is for two thirds of the year dry and arid. The cool damp air of the region offers relief for tourists and there are a number of beautiful walks that can be taken up the mountainside. These walks take in the beautiful tea plantations and can result in a trip to one of the mountains incredible waterfalls. A dip in the icy cold water will rejuvenate you.

Munnar, India

In the beautiful Kerala region of India this hill station is nestled in a sea of green tea plantations that can be seen in every direction. This stunning mountainous region offers cool relief for visitors that are travelling through the hot low lying regions of the state. Kerala offers everything for the tourist. The region boasts tropical beaches, wetland areas where people travel by boat, jungle where tigers and elephants can be found and also the aforementioned stunning tea hill tops. The tea plantations are dappled with the colourfully dressed women that pick the tea - all combining to create a mesmerising image for the tourist.