Today was out of this world!!! Today’s excursion was to a wild honeybee farm located at the top of a mountain next to a waterfall. Although some of the group got off to a rough start by not wearing the proper gear, we headed up a muddy trail towards our goal. As we were hiking we were told that collecting honey has been a tradition for over four generations and that the honey they collect is sold to other countries in Europe and Asia for consumption and beauty products.
After somewhat of a treacherous hike, I was immediately taken by the waterfall ahead that I didn’t even notice the honeybee nests above me. As I slowly walked in the water was bone chilling cold, yet refreshing at the same time since I was sweating profusely due to the heat and humidity. The water was crystal clear that I could see all the stone underneath my boots as I trekked closer and closer to the waterfall and the rocks above. I believe everyone was taken back by such beauty and decided to play in the water while the honey was being collected for us.
The man collecting the honey climbed a tree that was well over 20 meters tall without any safety harnesses. To him, this was a norm but for me I saw a man with a lot of bravery and courage. He was stung a few times while in the tree, however it did not seem to phase him in the slightest way. He said that if the bees swarm you, its best to not swat them away because it will only make them angrier. (A good rule to live by). I had the opportunity taste the honey, which tasted like sweet ambrosia only suited for the gods. It made my eyes roll to the back of my head. The honey wasn’t as sweet as I am accustomed to and had more of a tangy flavor to it. The honey left (what I can only describe as) an electric taste in my mouth and I couldn’t get enough of it. Anything from the wild tastes better than store bought produce. This makes me wonder if I can buy wild honey in New Jersey and would it taste the same?
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