14/9/2013 Cartagena Colombia

We docked in Cartagena in Colombia, today at 12 noon just in time for our on shore tour.

Today's shore excursion was a bus trip through the city and then shopping. We had been warned through the ship to be aware of pickpockets, leave everything of value on board, and not to trust the local taxi drivers or walk to the city. So we all went ashore stripped of our jewellery and feeling rather vulnerable.  Maybe it  was the fact that we were with a guide and on a bus but it all seemed ok to us.  As per normal the shopping seemed to take place where the guide got the most commission so the shopping was fairly pathetic.  

It was hot as Hades and the guide talked too much. Other than that the day was pleasant enough.  You can only take in so many churches and local dignitaries and where they are buried etc in 35 degree heat. Old city walls and history become second in line to cold water and toilet stops on these tours.

On our return to the boat we retreated into our cabin with a cold piña colada and margarita which was very fitting for the end of the tour.

Although this city is renowned for being the drug capital of the world we saw little on offer.  But Ken was offered a durrie by a local lady in he street. He refused luckily.

Coffee is the big export from this part of the world and the shipping port was certainly busy with containers on the wharf. Not sure what was in the containers though.

We are on our way to the Cayman islands.  Sound very tropical and we are hoping for some real shopping. Nothing worthwhile so far.