Finnally Out to Sea

Well, the first few days of the cruise had some interesting consequences.

We have never, ever left a port in a snow storm, but it was snowing as we waited to leave New York City. Take a look at the snow from our balcony.

Then we had major internet issues. First, there were router issues that would not allow anyone to connect to a secure website. Unfortunately, that included our personal email and the university’s Blackboard site.

After they got the routing issues solved, we then had connection issues back to the states. What a mess.

About this time, we had our first port of Cartagena, Columbia. We had received a letter from the Captain indicating that there would be extra security not only on the ship and the pier, but that Cartagena officials were beefing up security to protect us “tourists” while we were in port. Since there were no excursion buses capable of loading Rexie’s wheel chair, we did not plan on going on an excursion. Instead, we were going to go into town and walk around. Well, we were until the Captain’s letter.

So, we just walked around the port.  Here is a shot of the pier as we walked. Rather, Rexie road in her wheelchair and took pictures while I pushed.

We were amazed that it was like a beautiful park/jungle with boardwalks through it.

The floral was gorgeous.

We also found a number of different birds, some caged and others just roaming around. These are NOT plastic flamingos, but the real thing.

These parrots were actually using their beak and claws to slide down the poles. It was pretty ingenious how they did it.

As we make our way back to the Carnival Miracle, we saw this old ship heading into port.

The heat is up there and we look forward to getting back to our ship.

We say goodbye to Cartagena, Columbia and head towards the Panama Canal.

I must be off!