View Full Version : High Tea??
medfordgirl
July 12th, 2008, 12:02 PM
What exactly is this? I have read just bits and pieces in reviews. Does it change daily? Dutch high tea then another one??? Also I read that "to die for pastries" are served with it. Do those change daily too? Are they served in your room or do you have to go somewhere in the ship to enjoy this service?
Krazy Kruizers
July 12th, 2008, 12:09 PM
If you are in a PS, SA, SB or SC cabin, high tea can be served daily in your suite if requested before noon.
We haven't been to one in years -- the pastries were the same very day.
Other may be able comment on that.
The Royal Dutch Tea has more pastries and cakes.
Afternoon tea can be held in the dining room or the Explorer's Lounge -- differs by ship.
On some itineraries there is an Indonesian Tea -- the teas that the Indonesians drink.
gebo
July 12th, 2008, 12:31 PM
The Indo's appear to be very honored that you attend their tea (also cultural show). After all their great service I feel this is a way to show them appreciation. I would consider doing the Dutch tea in the suite.
medfordgirl
July 12th, 2008, 12:48 PM
yes, we do have a sb suite. So, I see you mentioned Royal Dutch tea and an Indo tea. Are their others. Can I have other family members in my room so we can all have tea there? I Think I would like to have my mom and aunt and cousin for tea on the balcony and the men can do other stuff.
Krazy Kruizers
July 12th, 2008, 12:59 PM
yes, we do have a sb suite. So, I see you mentioned Royal Dutch tea and an Indo tea. Are their others. Can I have other family members in my room so we can all have tea there? I Think I would like to have my mom and aunt and cousin for tea on the balcony and the men can do other stuff.
Just order High Tea for 3 -- no problem.
innlady1
July 12th, 2008, 09:44 PM
What exactly is this? I have read just bits and pieces in reviews. Does it change daily? Dutch high tea then another one??? Also I read that "to die for pastries" are served with it. Do those change daily too? Are they served in your room or do you have to go somewhere in the ship to enjoy this service?
HAL does serve Afternoon Tea in the dining room, from 3 to 4 PM, with teas, pastries, etc. The Indonesian Tea is lovely and quite an event. The stewards dress in Indonesian costumes and are quite proud to display this for the guests. Lovely pastries, too. If you only have time to do one, I would definitely do the Indonesian Tea.
You asked what High Tea is: Here is a definition that best describes the difference. On occasion, we have girls who work for us from England or Scotland. And one of them gave me this definition.
Afternoon Tea
This is the one that comes to mind when people think of English tea ceremonies. It all began back in the mid 1800s, when the Duchess of Bedford started having a tray of tea with bread and butter served to her in the mid-afternoon. You see, in those days, lunch was served at noon but dinner was not eaten until 8 or even 9 o'clock at night. The Duchess found herself hungry during those long afternoon hours. It became a regular occurance and as she began to invite other high-society ladies to join her, having Afternoon Tea became the 'in-thing' for the upper-class women. Along with tea, there would be small pastries with clotted cream or preserves, delicate sandwiches, and scones.
High Tea
Many people use the term "High Tea" to describe the event I've mentioned above, probably because it sounds more elite. But High Tea is a much different thing. It was served later (around six in the evening) and consisted of a full, dinner meal for the common people. Tea was still served, but there would also be meats, fish or eggs, cheese, bread and butter, and cake. It was more of a man's meal, than a ladies social diversion.
medfordgirl
July 12th, 2008, 11:46 PM
HAL does serve Afternoon Tea in the dining room, from 3 to 4 PM, with teas, pastries, etc. The Indonesian Tea is lovely and quite an event. The stewards dress in Indonesian costumes and are quite proud to display this for the guests. Lovely pastries, too. If you only have time to do one, I would definitely do the Indonesian Tea.
You asked what High Tea is: Here is a definition that best describes the difference. On occasion, we have girls who work for us from England or Scotland. And one of them gave me this definition.
Afternoon Tea
This is the one that comes to mind when people think of English tea ceremonies. It all began back in the mid 1800s, when the Duchess of Bedford started having a tray of tea with bread and butter served to her in the mid-afternoon. You see, in those days, lunch was served at noon but dinner was not eaten until 8 or even 9 o'clock at night. The Duchess found herself hungry during those long afternoon hours. It became a regular occurance and as she began to invite other high-society ladies to join her, having Afternoon Tea became the 'in-thing' for the upper-class women. Along with tea, there would be small pastries with clotted cream or preserves, delicate sandwiches, and scones.
High Tea
Many people use the term "High Tea" to describe the event I've mentioned above, probably because it sounds more elite. But High Tea is a much different thing. It was served later (around six in the evening) and consisted of a full, dinner meal for the common people. Tea was still served, but there would also be meats, fish or eggs, cheese, bread and butter, and cake. It was more of a man's meal, than a ladies social diversion.
Thank you, I love learning where the terms come from. I hope they mention on the dailies (not sure what they call it on HAL on RCCL it is the cruise compass) when and where and what tea is for that day.
PennyAgain
July 13th, 2008, 09:41 AM
To add to the discussion of what is high tea with this little bit of information. In the British Isles 'tea' or 'high tea' is actually the last meal of the day for many country people or those whose families recently lived in the country or small towns.
This meal is served on the high table (dining table) and thus is called high tea.
Afternoon tea is tradtionally served from a low table or eaten from a low table (sometimes called a coffee table in the US) served from a tea cart.
When my late mother said she was about to have tea, she meant her evening meal. If she was going to just drink tea, she would say 'have a cuppa'.
My mother was so well known for her skill at making and serving afternoon tea that a well thought of hotel paid her to teach the staff how to do so. She really enjoyed that!
I may spend the rest of my life explaining this!
Krazy Kruizers
July 13th, 2008, 10:49 AM
Thank you, I love learning where the terms come from. I hope they mention on the dailies (not sure what they call it on HAL on RCCL it is the cruise compass) when and where and what tea is for that day.
Yes, High Tea, Royal Dutch Tea and Indonesian Tea will be listed on the Daily Program.
The time and place will be listed.
Travalerie
July 13th, 2008, 11:32 AM
HAL does serve Afternoon Tea in the dining room, from 3 to 4 PM, with teas, pastries, etc. The Indonesian Tea is lovely and quite an event. The stewards dress in Indonesian costumes and are quite proud to display this for the guests. Lovely pastries, too. If you only have time to do one, I would definitely do the Indonesian Tea.
You asked what High Tea is: Here is a definition that best describes the difference. On occasion, we have girls who work for us from England or Scotland. And one of them gave me this definition.
Afternoon Tea
This is the one that comes to mind when people think of English tea ceremonies. It all began back in the mid 1800s, when the Duchess of Bedford started having a tray of tea with bread and butter served to her in the mid-afternoon. You see, in those days, lunch was served at noon but dinner was not eaten until 8 or even 9 o'clock at night. The Duchess found herself hungry during those long afternoon hours. It became a regular occurance and as she began to invite other high-society ladies to join her, having Afternoon Tea became the 'in-thing' for the upper-class women. Along with tea, there would be small pastries with clotted cream or preserves, delicate sandwiches, and scones.
High Tea
Many people use the term "High Tea" to describe the event I've mentioned above, probably because it sounds more elite. But High Tea is a much different thing. It was served later (around six in the evening) and consisted of a full, dinner meal for the common people. Tea was still served, but there would also be meats, fish or eggs, cheese, bread and butter, and cake. It was more of a man's meal, than a ladies social diversion.
Very impressive! Thanks for sharing the knowledge!
m steve
July 13th, 2008, 11:59 AM
Afternoon tea is booked weeks in advance. We were kicked out of the bar where it was served as the room was fully booked so we took our martinis into the lobby. I think they get about $50 for tea service now.
innlady1
July 13th, 2008, 12:03 PM
To add to the discussion of what is high tea with this little bit of information. In the British Isles 'tea' or 'high tea' is actually the last meal of the day for many country people or those whose families recently lived in the country or small towns.
This meal is served on the high table (dining table) and thus is called high tea.
Afternoon tea is tradtionally served from a low table or eaten from a low table (sometimes called a coffee table in the US) served from a tea cart.
When my late mother said she was about to have tea, she meant her evening meal. If she was going to just drink tea, she would say 'have a cuppa'.
My mother was so well known for her skill at making and serving afternoon tea that a well thought of hotel paid her to teach the staff how to do so. She really enjoyed that!
I may spend the rest of my life explaining this!
Thanks Penny. I remember reading this definition once when I looked it up online! I think it's interesting where terms originate...
medfordgirl
July 13th, 2008, 02:30 PM
Yes, High Tea, Royal Dutch Tea and Indonesian Tea will be listed on the Daily Program.
The time and place will be listed.
So, High Tea and Royal Dutch Tea are two different things? Can you explain the difference. I will be sure to go to the dining area for the Indonesian Tea. I had thought the High Tea was the Royal Dutch Tea and planned that on my balcony. Now I am a bit confused. :o
m steve
July 16th, 2008, 10:58 AM
was when you ordered cocktails along with the petit fores.
STANCPA44
July 16th, 2008, 12:10 PM
Afternoon tea is booked weeks in advance. We were kicked out of the bar where it was served as the room was fully booked so we took our martinis into the lobby. I think they get about $50 for tea service now.
Last September, I was on a pre-cruise, stayed in London for two days,
check for a High Tea, cheapest was $90. at Harrod.
Ritz was quite a bit higher. Decided on the Medieval Banquet at night.
Was quite nice.:cool:
kakalina
July 16th, 2008, 12:41 PM
HAl offers teas in the following manner:
Afternoon tea: Served almost daily usually around 3:30 in the main DR. One is offered the choice of brewed HAL tea or a tea box of flavored teas. After your water/tea is brought to you the servers come around to each table. Offered first are small biscuits and/or scones or crumpets along with the sides of jam, clotted cream and butter. Next are the small tea sandwiches usually cream cheese, cucuember etc. Then come the small cakes and pastries to complete the afternoon tea.
Indonesian Tea: Is usually served once on a short cruise or twice on a longer cruise. They offer Indonesian teas and foods served in the traditional manner.
Royal Dutch Tea: Is usually served once on shorter cruises or twice on the longer cruisies. I have has it served in the main DR and also in the show lounge. This is usually a huge affair. With chocolate fountains abounding in freshly cut fruit for dipping, full legs of lamb and haunches of beef, tons of breads and side dishes. Lots of cleverly cut and displayed fruits, veggies and ice sculpters. Once there was an entire musical band with instrments made out of marzipan. Generally pax are allowed to take pix as they go through the lines, fill their plates and find a table.
I have enjoyed everyone I have ever been to. If I can find them I have pix of several of them, I'll post them.
m steve
July 16th, 2008, 01:25 PM
when the pound was $1.50.
medfordgirl
July 16th, 2008, 02:05 PM
HAl offers teas in the following manner:
Afternoon tea: Served almost daily usually around 3:30 in the main DR. One is offered the choice of brewed HAL tea or a tea box of flavored teas. After your water/tea is brought to you the servers come around to each table. Offered first are small biscuits and/or scones or crumpets along with the sides of jam, clotted cream and butter. Next are the small tea sandwiches usually cream cheese, cucuember etc. Then come the small cakes and pastries to complete the afternoon tea.
always wanted to try a cucumber sandwich.
Indonesian Tea: Is usually served once on a short cruise or twice on a longer cruise. They offer Indonesian teas and foods served in the traditional manner.
don't want to miss this
Royal Dutch Tea: Is usually served once on shorter cruises or twice on the longer cruisies. I have has it served in the main DR and also in the show lounge. This is usually a huge affair. With chocolate fountains abounding in freshly cut fruit for dipping, full legs of lamb and haunches of beef, tons of breads and side dishes. Lots of cleverly cut and displayed fruits, veggies and ice sculpters. Once there was an entire musical band with instrments made out of marzipan. Generally pax are allowed to take pix as they go through the lines, fill their plates and find a table.
I have enjoyed everyone I have ever been to. If I can find them I have pix of several of them, I'll post them.
so, if I have this Royal Dutch Tea on my balcony, what foods would they bring?
should I just go to the main dining room for this and then get a regular tea and cucumber sandwiches on my balcony? I really wanted the high tea on my balcony with my mom and cousin and aunt. BuT I don't want to miss all the good stuff.:(
Jade13
July 16th, 2008, 02:07 PM
What exactly is this? I have read just bits and pieces in reviews. Does it change daily? Dutch high tea then another one??? Also I read that "to die for pastries" are served with it. Do those change daily too? Are they served in your room or do you have to go somewhere in the ship to enjoy this service?
It is not "High Tea" (which would be a meal), but "Royal Dutch Tea". It is usually the first sea day at 3:00pm in the dining room.
Sometimes they have Indonesian Tea on the second sea day.
medfordgirl
July 16th, 2008, 02:09 PM
HAl offers teas in the following manner:
Afternoon tea: Served almost daily usually around 3:30 in the main DR. One is offered the choice of brewed HAL tea or a tea box of flavored teas. After your water/tea is brought to you the servers come around to each table. Offered first are small biscuits and/or scones or crumpets along with the sides of jam, clotted cream and butter. Next are the small tea sandwiches usually cream cheese, cucuember etc. Then come the small cakes and pastries to complete the afternoon tea.
always wanted to try a cucumber sandwich
Indonesian Tea: Is usually served once on a short cruise or twice on a longer cruise. They offer Indonesian teas and foods served in the traditional manner.
don't want to miss this.
Royal Dutch Tea: Is usually served once on shorter cruises or twice on the longer cruisies. I have has it served in the main DR and also in the show lounge. This is usually a huge affair. With chocolate fountains abounding in freshly cut fruit for dipping, full legs of lamb and haunches of beef, tons of breads and side dishes. Lots of cleverly cut and displayed fruits, veggies and ice sculpters. Once there was an entire musical band with instrments made out of marzipan. Generally pax are allowed to take pix as they go through the lines, fill their plates and find a table.
I have enjoyed everyone I have ever been to. If I can find them I have pix of several of them, I'll post them.
So, if I have this royal dutch tea on my balcony then how much of this stuff will they bring?
Should I just go to the dining room for this and then have a regular tea on my balcony with the cucumber sandwiches?
I really wanted the royal high dutch tea on my balcony with my mom, aunt and cousin. But I don't want to miss all the good stuff. Guess This is what they call stuck between a rock and a hard place? :(
heavenly
July 16th, 2008, 02:12 PM
So, if I have this royal dutch tea on my balcony then how much of this stuff will they bring?
Should I just go to the dining room for this and then have a regular tea on my balcony with the cucumber sandwiches?
I really wanted the royal high dutch tea on my balcony with my mom, aunt and cousin. But I don't want to miss all the good stuff. Guess This is what they call stuck between a rock and a hard place? :(
Why not do both??? The suite tea can be done any day. The suites are great, we always sail in one, but get out of it once in a while!:D
medfordgirl
July 16th, 2008, 02:12 PM
would love to see the pics if you can find them. Can't believe I was on a Holland cruise a few years back and didn't know about these teas. :o
Jade13
July 16th, 2008, 02:17 PM
HAl offers teas in the following manner:
Afternoon tea: Served almost daily usually around 3:30 in the main DR. One is offered the choice of brewed HAL tea or a tea box of flavored teas. After your water/tea is brought to you the servers come around to each table. Offered first are small biscuits and/or scones or crumpets along with the sides of jam, clotted cream and butter. Next are the small tea sandwiches usually cream cheese, cucuember etc. Then come the small cakes and pastries to complete the afternoon tea.
Indonesian Tea: Is usually served once on a short cruise or twice on a longer cruise. They offer Indonesian teas and foods served in the traditional manner.
Royal Dutch Tea: Is usually served once on shorter cruises or twice on the longer cruisies. I have has it served in the main DR and also in the show lounge. This is usually a huge affair. With chocolate fountains abounding in freshly cut fruit for dipping, full legs of lamb and haunches of beef, tons of breads and side dishes. Lots of cleverly cut and displayed fruits, veggies and ice sculpters. Once there was an entire musical band with instrments made out of marzipan. Generally pax are allowed to take pix as they go through the lines, fill their plates and find a table.
I have enjoyed everyone I have ever been to. If I can find them I have pix of several of them, I'll post them.
I go to Royal Dutch Tea on every HAL cruise and have never seen "full legs of lamb and haunches of beef". I usually do find great Dutch cookies.
Jade13
July 16th, 2008, 02:24 PM
If you are in a PS, SA, SB or SC cabin, high tea can be served daily in your suite if requested before noon.
Just fyi for those interested, this can now by "bought" as it is part of the "Suites Amenity Package" that HAL is now selling. The package is currently $399.00 (for two persons/cabin) on 7-10 night cruise and includes:
Tea or Canapies daily
Unlimited laundry and Pressing ($130.00 value)
2 Pinnacle Grille ($40.00 value)
2 Coffee cards ($60.00 value)
2 Monogramed bath robes to take home ($100.00 value)
Bar set up, 2 wines, 2 alcohol
Flowers (at least $29.00 value)
disembarkation lounge (Pinnacle Grille) and luggage left out in the am
unlimited use of DVDs
kakalina
July 16th, 2008, 02:39 PM
I am not computer literate but have requested DH to find and post the pix, I have never had anyone doubt the veracity of something I have posted.
Perhaps they only do this on the longer cruises now, since we rarely take cruises less than 21 - 30 days or longer things may have changed on the shorter cruises.
Jade13
July 16th, 2008, 02:44 PM
I am not computer literate but have requested DH to find and post the pix, I have never had anyone doubt the veracity of something I have posted.
Perhaps they only do this on the longer cruises now, since we rarely take cruises less than 21 - 30 days or longer things may have changed on the shorter cruises.
I am not doubting you at all. Sorry you misundestood me. I was just saying I have never personally seen such a big display for tea, which sounds like High tea. Our favorite length cruise is 10 days with a pre-cruise stay before we embark.
medfordgirl
July 16th, 2008, 07:34 PM
Just curious, has anyone done the royal dutch tea on their balcony? How was it? Tell all.
SDHALFAN
July 16th, 2008, 09:21 PM
HAL does serve Afternoon Tea in the dining room, from 3 to 4 PM, with teas, pastries, etc. The Indonesian Tea is lovely and quite an event. The stewards dress in Indonesian costumes and are quite proud to display this for the guests. Lovely pastries, too. If you only have time to do one, I would definitely do the Indonesian Tea.
You asked what High Tea is: Here is a definition that best describes the difference. On occasion, we have girls who work for us from England or Scotland. And one of them gave me this definition.
Afternoon Tea
This is the one that comes to mind when people think of English tea ceremonies. It all began back in the mid 1800s, when the Duchess of Bedford started having a tray of tea with bread and butter served to her in the mid-afternoon. You see, in those days, lunch was served at noon but dinner was not eaten until 8 or even 9 o'clock at night. The Duchess found herself hungry during those long afternoon hours. It became a regular occurance and as she began to invite other high-society ladies to join her, having Afternoon Tea became the 'in-thing' for the upper-class women. Along with tea, there would be small pastries with clotted cream or preserves, delicate sandwiches, and scones.
High Tea
Many people use the term "High Tea" to describe the event I've mentioned above, probably because it sounds more elite. But High Tea is a much different thing. It was served later (around six in the evening) and consisted of a full, dinner meal for the common people. Tea was still served, but there would also be meats, fish or eggs, cheese, bread and butter, and cake. It was more of a man's meal, than a ladies social diversion.
Thank you so much for explaining the difference between Afternoon Tea and High Tea. I am originally from the U.K. and I have to say that this is one of those trivial things that really drive me nuts. When people say they had High Tea I might ask are you sure? Then I explain to them that what they had was Afternoon Tea and if they had had High Tea then they would pretty much have had dinner, even if it was served at 3-4:00 p.m.:D
I usually never mention it since it truly is a trivial thing and I should be ashamed of myself, but it really does drive me crazy when people talk about High Tea when what they really mean is Afternoon Tea. So - once again, thanks so much for explaining it so clearly.
Valerie:)