I agree that Earl Gray tea IS absolutely vile. Almost as bad as a tisane. In England, fortunately, you will only be served it if you ask specifically for it. Normally we drink fairly strong English breakfast tea, as it is known to all USns. Assam is good too, as are many other Indian and Chinese teas. Lapsang Souchong has an interesting smoky, tarry flavour that is OK for a change now and then.