122 kms. A flat ride along the coast, but in the end some small hills, total ascent 483 mtrs. Easy ride, though hot, but a hind wind that helped to keep a bit of speed. It was a Sunday, and again many joggers were on the road at day-break. But even more groups of cyclists. So there were a lot of hellos and thumb-ups. For some time a man rode up with us, whose life story was quite interesting. He was an Israëli, no Jew but Arab. He had studied in Louvain-le Neuve near Bruxelles and has a brother who lives in Soest, Holland. So he knew exactly where Breda, where we live, is located. In Belgium he met the girl that is now his wife, she is Colombian. In Israël he couldn’t find work, so then they decided to come here. This was 22 years ago and he is very happy here, as he told us. And he confirmed strongly that the Colombians in general are a very generous and kind people. Although the ride was not difficult, it remains far. Around 15.00 we saw the fortifications of Cartagena de Indias, as the full name is. We rode in the town and our second attempt was a hit. We now stay in Hotel Viajero in an old colonial building and we have a nice room, a simple, kind place with a nice leisurely atmosphere. Wi-fi etc, everything you need. Cartagena is a marvel, the old center is preserved the way it was built by the Spaniards. Narrow streets with beautiful houses with gated windows and balconies, flowers everywhere, small squares, terraces, bars and restaurants (more expensive than elsewhere!), street vendors, university students, coffee bars, small parks with shaded benches etc. We will stay for a couple of days.

If you care to see some pics: begin with this one.

The track: Download 20100124_baranq_cartagena.gpx