>Ouch, the english tea I got served at times when I was in Londen and Toronto, was just as dark as coffee. Of course they ask (if you're lucky) if you want to have milk in it. Arghhh, no then just give me hot water and a teabag (on a string): I'll make my own tea. English just do not have taste :)

Ha Ha. Sound like you got "builders' tea", from a cafe (builders like it so strong that the teaspoon stands up in it). When tea's been left in the pot too long it becomes "stewed" or "mashed" and becomes bitter. That's why there's usually a small pot of boiled water to top up with. Actually, Cona coffe makers are very good for tea cos they separate the leaves from the liquor.

Another unpleasant tea is really weak tea (in Liverpool they call it "shamrock tea" - 3 leaves).

Once met a Dutch girl who also bauked at the idea of putting milk in the tea. She said in Holland you call that "baby tea" :-)

My favourite is "Earl Grey" - doesn't get too strong either cos it takes much longer to "brew" - recommended to be taken with lemon - but I still add milk.

In Arab countries I'm happy with strong tea in a glass, with sugar in it (don't use sugar at home) and no milk.

Terry