Little Gems: Geels & Co.

Not far from Amsterdam Centraal Station at #67 Warmoesstraat, nestled in between the smoke shops and the sex shops is a haven of the clean life: Geels & Company; specializing in tea, coffee, and all things associated with the preparation, consumption, and storage of one of lifes Grand Plasirs. The bell attached to the creaky wooden door gently announces your arrival, and the first thing that hits you is the aroma. More heavenly than anything I have ever experienced, it is a mélange of cinnamon, almonds, buttery caramel and coffee beans. If only I could bottle that aroma and take it home.......I wish I had smellavision to share it with you! It is possible to find a gift for anyone you love at Geels, from a large selection of exotically blended and beautifully packaged teas to chocolates and caramels. Teapots, teacups, and the indispensable french presse, they have it all and the prices are suprisingly reasonable. I like to try a different tea every time I visit, with favorites being their "Advent" tea and the "Palette Rembrandt". Sweet and spicy, with just a hint of heat is their "Mango Chili" blend. Delish! You can find a limited but nice selection of products for sale online at http://www.geels.nl/ but if you are in Amsterdam be sure to visit in person.