Finally, we made it into the city of Cartagena! We got the bus from immediately outside the campsite and it cost just over 4 euros for the two of us, one way. The bus takes you into the main bus station and a tip we were given was to buy your return tickets as soon as you get there. The ticket office is not open all day and you don’t want to be rushing trying to buy your ticket while the bus sails off into the distance!
As it happened, we’d bought our tickets but then got engrossed in conversation with a couple of ladies over lunch – then we had to run to catch the bus with literally a minute to spare. A very kind Spanish man told us which bus we were after (how did he know we wanted to go to La Manga?) so we jumped on, with a stitch (Angela) and blisters on both feet (Dean)!
We have to go back (probably numerous times) as we only got to see the harbour and the adjoining streets where the main shopping area was. It was lovely to dress in ‘normal’ clothes and do the touristy bit. The attached link (http://www.spain.info/en/ven/otros-destinos/reportaje/cartagena.html) gives you an idea of how much there is to see so we know we’ve got much more in store!
Along the harbour front (that has recently been redeveloped) there is the National Museum of Maritime Archaeology, alongside which there is the original prototype of a submarine, 1888. There are some fascinating sculptures along the harbour front too.
The city is beautiful and we wandered round for ages just looking around at the people, buildings and shops. As we were pushed for time (having bought our bus tickets for a designated time) we ended up having a quick bite to eat before heading back to site. In no way have we done justice to this city, so when we go again we’ll explore properly and report back!
Deano
I think you’ve got the right idea as to how life should be lived. Good luck and a Merry Christmas to you and Angela. Great to see your ugly face again after all these years.
Cheers
Jim