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Our visit to Cartagena, a port town on the SE Mediterranean coast of Spain, was a rainy but still enjoyable experience. We have friends who moved there from England a number of years ago and were unfortunately, for us, on vacation away from the area when we arrived. They graciously gave us an itinerary to follow as we navigated the city. Cartagena was founded in the 3rd century BCE on the site of an ancient Iberian settlement by the Carthaginian general Hasdrubal. We entered this ancient city through the port and started our exploration, on foot, at the city center. We were taken by the colorful architecture and pristine, marble streets and sidewalks. The rain cast an impressive sheen and spectacular reflections as we started our walk. There were many shops and cafes lining the pedestrian only street. What better way to warm the soul and gather our bearings than a cup of coffee? Now, we’re not talking any old cup of Joe, we had a hot Java called Asiatico. It is made from condensed milk, coffee, cognac, Licor 43, lemon rind and cinnamon. When we say this drink is nothing short of outrageously good, that is an understatement. They serve it in an espresso style glass designed to prevent thermal collapse. Trust us, this drink does not collapse in any shape or form. Bravo, bravo, bravo! We sat at a small café and sipped away.
Of course, because it was rainy, we did not have an umbrella so, we bought one. Actually, we bought two at a great price, just a few Euro. Now we were dry and happy. Continuing our stroll, we found a church where the morning service was just ending. We checked out the beautiful artwork and architecture and just chilled for a while in the quiet sanctuary. After a while we were off again. The marble streets just did not quit as we continued on. Even the side streets were decked with marble. Like many cities in Spain, Cartagena is no different, cleanliness is taken to the extreme. Not that we would, but as the expression goes, you could eat off the street. Extending the three second rule with respect to dropped food probably could be extended to seven. When you travel in Spain and Portugal you quickly become aware of the price difference in the price of goods, services, food and drink. You get a better bang for your Euro in Spain. There is a significantly better value in Spain. Not that Portugal is expensive but in Spain you can keep more change in your pocket. Tapas are everywhere with a huge selection of delicious delicacies in most cafes and restaurants. We actually walked back to the café where we had the Asiatico and had our Tapas and brewskis. Still raining, we took advantage of the lazy afternoon and basically chilled, did some people watching and took in a few more sites. We are planning to return soon and hopefully our friends will not be away. In addition to getting together we are sure that having residents present the scope of the city would be a real treat for us. Having sailed for many years we are always drawn to sailing yachts in marinas. Cartagena did not disappoint. The harbor was filled with craft of all sizes and styles. We always compare what we sailed to what we see and pay attention to the rigging, canvas and the like. Never fails to bring back memories of the amazing fun and sometimes craziness we had on our sloop, with our boys. Oh well, life is certainly a journey and adventure. Just when you think you’ve seen and experienced it all, there’s always something else.
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About UsTravel is living life to its fullest. Sharing our journey and adventures create memories that live on as we truly enjoy the passage of time Archives
October 2022
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