* Travel Journal: Cartagena
Posted on April 6th, 2010 by Mike Shriver. Filed under Journal.
Kyle and Yuki arrived today. Torin and I had a 5 hour bus ride from Sincelejo up to Cartagena to meet them. It was enormously unpleasant and I found myself despising everything about this country. I am severely sunburned, my legs have been aching for 3 days, and my hair is uncontrollable; constantly in my face and unwilling to be tied back. Somehow, settling into our place in Cartagena and eating a huge steak repaired almost all of my complaints (The sunburn still kills).
Torin’s place is surprisingly basic, merely a few cinderblock and concrete walls with fiberglass panels for the ceiling. The plumbing in s minimal, and requires an electric pump be switched on to use. The water is undrinkable, and they collect rainwater from the roof to consume. Electricity is pretty unstable and usually goes out about once a day for an hour or so. Torin’s place is about the most luxurious in the village he inhabits. There is a fridge, which makes it a watering hole for the local kids, at least two of whom seem to be around at all times.
It’s primitive living, although I guess you get used to it. Torin has been there for several months, after all. Three week of this living will be a challenge for me. I’m hoping I will at least pick up some Spanish while I’m here, though.