Cartagena - The injury does not stop us!
Our relationship with this town didn’t start off with the right foot. Erika twisted her ankle running to catch the bus that was heading off after a quick stop. Moments of concern followed the accident. How serious was the injury? hard to tell. Little by little with the strength of our bond we managed to improve our mood.
As soon as we arrived we bought the crutches, we asked for two nights more at the Airbnb, and we looked for a Spanish school. If we have to stay put for four days at least we want to get the most out of this time! Soon we found our routine as we have always lived in Cartagena. We had the school, the showers, the meals to prepare at “home” (we could use the kitchen), the laundry, another shower, little walks to the city centre, showers like no tomorrow (how hot and humid is it in the Caribbean?!?) and delicious dinners out. The city centre and the close neighbourhood Getsemani were mesmerising. So colourful, intricate and full of history that it was amazing even only wander and get lost in the maze of little streets. Slowly, because Erika’s ankle was recovering from the injury.
The Spanish school was a memorable experience. Our professora was Diana, a lovely, cute, little, Caribbean girl. we spent with her three hours a day and on top of grammar and vocabulary lessons, we really enjoyed each other company, talking about food, dancing, eating out, having fun and girls who want only to show off (that’s an inside joke, don’t worry). She recommended a place for a good dinner and the good music to listen while walking in Cartagena (Cumbia and Vallenato). Additionally it was amazing learning a bit of Spanish. Even though we lacked most of the vocabulary and the grammar, managing to carry out a basic conversation is both rewarding and exciting. You feel incredibly more connected with the people and the environment you live in. The dinner out was a surprise, with the main course being a fish soup with coconut milk . So similar to the amok in Cambodia, but at the same time with different flavours coming out from the plate.
