86 Countries and Still Counting: January 4, 2025

Great news! Juan Carlos is back - he's fine and it seems to have been a combination of a communication and technology breakdown. We've straightened that out and spent a great morning together today. We left at 8 a.m. and did a tour of the city, including the main neighborhoods and Pie de la Popa. We started at my apartment in Bocagrande then headed by the port to Getsemani, a neighborhood known for its colorful murals. Then we went to the Old City then on to Manga. Years ago I looked at buying a condo in Manga and still love the area because of the old homes and trees.

It was fun to recognize areas I've visited before. It was also wonderful to do it before the narrow streets were packed with tourists. And, when it was a bit cooler. Here are lots of photos...and I'll even more in another post.

My view when I woke up.

Breakfast was yogurt from Carulla (big grocery chain). I don't think I've ever had orange yogurt before. Loved it.

There's a cruise ship in port and there were lots of crowds.

These folks were waiting to board the boats for a trip to the Rosario Islands and other nearby islands. The beaches in Cartagena aren't gorgeous. They're similar to the beaches in Central Florida, with darker sand. The nearby small islands have the white sand and blue waters typical of the Caribbean.

This is one of the most iconic sites in the historic Old City of Cartagena. Called the Torre de Reloj (clock tower), it is a common meeting place for tours. January is the busiest month for tourists in this UNESCO Heritage site.

One of the many sculptures in the city.

The view from the port area toward Bocagrande, where I'm staying. The city of 1 1/2 million is relatively compact and easy to get around. Having said that, the streets are narrow and drivers need nerves of steel.

Entering the barrio of Getsemani

Color, flowers and friendly people.

We posed with the statues in front of the Iglesia de la Trinidad.

Mi amigo, Juan Carlos.

The Iglesia de la Trinidad - the Church of the Trinity is in Getsemani.

Getsemani is known for it's colorful homes and murals.

Panama hats are a popular souvenir, based on how many are for sale.

The streets are colorful and narrow. And almost empty early in the morning.

That's the Colombian flag hanging over the fruit vendor.

One street is covered with dream catchers.

I believe my HOA would have an issue with this color.

A mural of a beautiful young woman. Who just happens to be Juan Carlos' niece.

This is the girl's grandmother.

There are many talented artists in Cartagena and paintings are a popular souvenir.

So I look sweaty? It was only about 85 but humid. I'll take being too hot over being too cold any day.

Creative mural with 3-D butterflys.

I had to laugh. I have a similar Christmas decoration from Guatemala.

I'll be heading back to Getsemani during my stay, to just wander and have lunch.

Fruit is readily available and less expensive than in the U.S.

People were out early, cleaning the streets. Cartagena was founded in 1533. Some of the walls show the wear of the years.

Need a rest from the walking? There are places to relax and get a cup of coffee all over.

Another mural.

Which country started the "umbrellas over the street trend? I like them. Just curious and too lazy to Google.

Cartagena is near the equator and has flowers year 'round.

Well, I'm old and out of touch. No, I didn't recognize Shakira.

I loved this orchid, painted on a house.

This is the wall of a fancy restaurant. Here's the menu. https://celelerestaurante.com/menus/ For reference, 100,000 Colombian pesos is about $23 USD.