Cartagena, Colombia - 1. El Centro

 James and I just came back from Cartagena, Colombia. People might think one week in Cartagena is too much, but we couldn't cover every bit of it. It was truly an interesting place.

Above is a sketch done on the rooftop of our airbnb located in a 9-story building. I like the mix of modern and old buildings in and around the old town Cartagena.

Ever since James got a haircut in Czech Republic in 2006 when we first met, it has become a tradition for us that he always gets a haircut when we visit a new country. This time he even got a shave- he said it was the smoothest shave he's ever had. While I was sketching, local men just came and went at this small barber shop. They walked in, had a shave/haircut, sat down and did some people watching or reading newspaper and left after a good handshake with all the barbers and regular customers. The music played in the shop was so charming that I went back to ask those friendly barbers what they were listening to on the day. It was a mission for us to communicate as I don't speak Spanish (I'm learning though!) and they spoke no English. Luckily an English-speaking customer was there to help me out. One of the barbers walked me to a local CD shop to pick up an album. Nice, huh?

Sometimes taking a photo is easier to capture the interesting things I see although it doesn't happen every often. These floor tiles are photos of all the Miss Colombia. Top two are the oldest, 1934-1947 and 1947-49. They also shared the same sir name. I wonder if they were mother and daughter.

El Centro is a UNESCO world heritage site. The town is just amazing with all the old buildings, towers and cathedrals. I spent my last morning in Cartagena sketching the Catedral. Unlike the often too busy afternoons, early morning in Cartagena is nice and peaceful. Street vendors were already out but not chasing tourists yet. I love the colors and energy they bring to the old town.

(to be continued)