After water, tea is the second most widely consumed drink worldwide and its popularity in the United States is spreading. That may be in part to the increasing availability of this ever-varied beverage. And, Scottsdale resorts and spas are meeting the demand.

Afternoon tea is served in the classic British tradition daily at The Phoenician’s Lobby Tea Court. Consistently voted "Best Afternoon Tea" by locals, tea service includes finger sandwiches, scones with Devonshire cream and preserves, pastries and a selection of fine teas, among them Darjeeling, Jasmine Blossom, Rosehip, Irish Morning, and Ceylon. Classical music provides a charming backdrop for this genteel afternoon break, which has become a revered tradition among residents and return guests.

For more information, visit www.thephoenician.com or call (800) 888-8234.

The Mandala Urban Tearoom in Scottsdale’s famous Fifth Avenue Shopping District celebrates the art of tea and combines the drink’s attributes with the bold flavors of vegan cuisine. “Tea tenders” serve more than 100 types of tea, all blended using only the finest certified organic loose leaf teas, herbs and spices gathered from around the world. Owners Jennifer Miranda and Rhea Ashcraft also offer guests Turn Over a New Leaf workshops and lectures on topics like nutrition and healing with tea, whole foods cooking, and kitchen coaching with everyday eco-friendly solutions.

For more information, visit www.mandalatearoom.com or call (480) 423-3411.

At the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch’s new Spa Avania, tea is regarded as an art form. The serving of exclusive, first-flush teas is part of a larger mission by the spa to educate guests about the extraordinary tastes and high antioxidant benefits of the world’s most exotic blends. Fine tea is specifically selected for the guests’ changing natural cycles during the morning, midday and evening time periods. They are distinct, bio-dynamic, certified organic, fair trade certified teas planted and harvested according to the lunar cycle. Guests can enjoy the exceedingly rare Royal Himalayan Snowflake during the morning, mountain-grown Royal Ceylon White Tip from Sri Lanka during the afternoon and Midnight Jasmine Pearls during the evening.

For more information, visit www.scottsdale.hyatt.com or call (800) 233-1234.

Another well-regarded resort spa, Willow Stream - The Spa at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, has created its own blend of aromatic teas for guests, and not only are they offered in the caf© for relaxation during spa treatments, but also in the boutique to take home. Flavors include Sedona Sunset (a herbal tea made of whole cranberries, elderberries and black currants blended with Rooibos “Red” Tea), Lemon Hibiscus (a herbal tea made with aromatic lemon grass and tangy hibiscus), Kiwi Cactus (a black tea finely picked with the natural essence of kiwi fruit, prickly pear cactus, and a hint of pear) and more. All are offered hot or cold at the spa and available for purchase.

For more information, visit www.fairmont.com or call (800) 344-4758.