January 12, 2025 - What a Coincidence!

 In only 14 days, my friend Roland will leave the frigid North to head to Cartagena for a visit.  In an amazing coincidence, his sister and her husband were here today on a cruise.  It was great fun to meet them in person.  Bonus that Juan Carlos took us to a terrific restaurant in Getsemani, not far from the port.  Thanks, Rosemarie and Eric for lunch and taking the time to hang out!

It was kinda hard leaving the port in a car rather than on a ship.  But I came home and consoled myself by confirming my massage appointment tomorrow morning.  While enjoying the amazing view from my apartment.  I do love cruising but have no regrets about spending two months here instead of on a ship.

Here are some photos from another beautiful day in Cartagena.

No air conditioning needed in the early morning.

This view from my bedroom window has not gotten old.

Such a peaceful place to start the day.

The local beer.

Pulpo is one of my favorites - this was grilled and served with patacones. That's green plantain that is sliced, smashed and then fried.  In Puerto Rico (and Central Florida) they're called tostones.

The ceviche had lots of onion, avocado and coconut cream.  Served with saltines, it was excellent.

Eric, me and Rosemarie.  This isn't Calgary, for sure.

I took a photo of the restaurant entrance from the car.  Mar de Las Antillas was pricey but delicious.  

Traffic and the number of tourists was light today.  JC says that's because it is Sunday.  

It is so convenient that Bocagrande, with excellent views, is so close to the Old City and the port.

I promised to wave from my balcony as their ship departed.

I waved like crazy then realized that's a freighter.  Their ship headed in a different direction.

I still haven't found out why sometimes there are large areas of brown water.

Whatever color, the sea is beautiful.