The best time of the day in Cartagena is early in the morning. The streets are empty, tourists and guides nowhere to be seen. Locals are headed to work whether to an office or selling baskets on the street. It is quiet. This is the beginning of another day that will last long into the night for the people who live and work here.
We walk the neighborhood then sit in Plaza de Bolivar facing our apartment building. Even this early benches in the shade of the park’s trees are at a premium. People are sitting, talking quietly enjoying the cool of the early morning.
There are four fountains in the park, one at each corner. The sound of the water is delicious.
A worker is scooping water from a fountain with a bucket tied to a rope. He walks from the fountain onto the dirt throwing bucket after bucket of water. It may be more primitive than an irrigation system but, I imagine, just as satisfying from the vegetation’s point-of-view.
Gradually the park and the benches begin to fill. We know it is time to leave as the first guide and gaggle of tourists enter. The guide stops in front of the statue of Simon Bolivar, talks for five minutes and the group moves on…another, faster way to see the town. Meanwhile Bolivar calmly observes.
MedFlies 
Thanks for your a.m. report! Have a good time!
We went out even earlier today. It’s Saturday. Pace of life is even slower on Saturday.
So nice to be armchair traveling with you again. I envy you, your warm weather and adventures. Sim
It was cool today, 87. What many would find amazing…we are enjoying the humidity.
I can hear those fountains. A joy beyond the prattle and hustle of the guides. But I guess they need to earn a living, too.
The street vendors are polite. A “No Gracias” suffices. There are many high end-shops selling Colombian emeralds. It’s quite a contrast to the lives of many Colombians.
Keep enjoying. Thanks for posting
So good to hear from you.
Thank you, wonderful to follow your adventures. Cheers. Sue:)
Good to hear from you Sue. Glad you’re with us.