Cartagena's Whisper

Cartagena's Whisper

What do you get when you combine an earthy, exotic Caribbean vibe with the architecture and dreamy streets of the remains of the colonial Spanish empire? Gorgeous ancient buildings in terra cotta and earth tones are accented with moorish arches. Along side are houses in a rage of happy Caribbean colors, cascades of bougainvilla tumbling over the walls. Somehow its rich history of pirates, freed slaves, the burning of witches and the expulsion of the oppressors seems to have instilled in the people of Cartagena the freedom and creativity to welcome a vast variety of styles, cultures and people, making it today one of the most fascinating - and exciting - cities in the Americas. Whether you feast on the sweet fruits from a street vendor's cart or at one of the upscale haunts of the beautiful people, Cartagena provides flavors to remember. And just as you think, wandering the charming streets and plazas of the walled city, that you must be somewhere in Spain, an exotic woman, dressed in the bright colors of the Caribbean and carrying a basket of fruit on her head, crosses your path. The music may be cumbia, champeta, raggae, tango or something unrecognizable. But it's music to make you smile, to take a deep breath and relax. What do you get? You get a city that welcomes you with warm open arms, and then smiles as she says farewell, whispering "you'll be back."

Forget Medellin

You know me ... as long as I can take a few good photos, I'm pretty happy - but we'll talk about the photography later. Mom always said if you couldn't say something nice, you shouldn't say anything at all. So here goes. Medellin has some good public transportation. The Metro system is efficient and comfortable. The people in the city are very friendly and helpful. Prices are very low. The fresh fruit is incredible. As far as I know, there are no more impressive Christmas lights anywhere in the world. And of course Medellin is the home of one of my favorite artists - I got to see all of those famous Botero statues in the plaza, as well as many more in the museum. I will have a whole greater appreciation of my Botero print which hangs in my bathroom now. My main reasons for coming to Medellin were to see the incredible Christmas light shows along the river, in the parks and throughout the city and also to see the Boteros. We did that. Both were great. My suggestion if you want to come to Medellin - come during December to see the lights, go to Plaza Botero and the museum. And bring your own food. Allow yourself two days.