Fascination Sloth

Caribbean laziness, tropical melancholy or simply sadness under palm trees, I have rarely been so lethargic on my travels as in these days. Even these few lines took a lot of effort. At first, I was convinced that my body and mind just needed to adapt. Now, after five days on the Colombian Caribbean coast, I was still hanging around, in hammocks, on pool loungers, or any seating that invited longer stays.

Temperatures in the mid-30s determined the daily routine. In Cartagena, I couldn't bring myself to get up until noon on my second day. Half an hour of aimless wandering and I escaped into lunch, my motivation didn't reach much further. And my appetite didn't reach beyond one proper meal a day.

In the afternoon, I signed up for a second city tour through the Getsemani neighborhood. Unlike the historic center of Cartagena, Getsemani was a bit more chaotic, less perfect. Graffiti, street cafes, and color on decaying facades exuded creativity and character. The highlight of the tour was a visit to the very modest city park, which boasted a unique ensemble of free-roaming wildlife: iguanas, sloths, monkeys, parrots, vultures, and even a red squirrel!! Cartagena really didn't miss a Caribbean cliché.

I spent the evening at my hostel again. The vibes reminded me of Merida in Yucatan. Numerous guests from Germany, who were more inclined towards luxury vacations in Costa Rica or Panama. Few solo travelers, many younger people, groups, couples, a vibe like a class trip for the well-off. I was looking forward to continuing my journey.

On Friday, I traveled along the coast to Santa Marta in the east. I enjoyed the four-hour air-conditioned bus ride and let myself be entertained by music and series on my mobile phone, occasionally dozing off. I spent the afternoon in Santa Marta with Günes, whom I met again in Cartagena after Guatemala. I also managed to gather myself enough to invest the free time in my online language courses before heading to a bar again. After all, it was Friday night.