Cadiz, Spain

Apologies for the long break between updates! We are all very busy on the Sorlandet with schoolwork, watch duties, cleaning duties and port expeditions. I will try my best to keep up to date in future …

Hola todos! Cadiz was the first Spanish port and I was really excited to travel there. My first impression? Spain is beautiful and rich with culture.

 The city of Cadiz itself was built with many narrow, winding and criss-crossing cobbled streets – the perfect recipe for getting lost … shops, tapa bars and apartments line every inch of downtown. One street in particular was super cool (we later dubbed it girl haven!). It was lined with wedding stores, dress boutiques, shoe shops and accessory boutiques. It was AMAZING. Luckily the boys in our group led us away before we could clean out our entire wallets!

In the center of the city there was a massive cathedral. It was incredible and conveniently had Wi-Fi! As I sat on the steps outside the cathedral, corresponding with friends, a procession of hundreds of priests, bishops and other religious figures all dressed in white robes paraded through the streets. I witnessed the crowning of a new bishop.

It was a really neat experience. We also got the chance to watch part of the church service itself. However, because of the huge number of people in the cathedral, we had to sit in a second sanctuary that broadcast the service.

As one of our port programs, we visited the city of Seville. We spent the day exploring, wandering and picnicking (this seems to be a theme!). We found a beautiful spot along the river, beside a bridge and next to a Zen forest.

We sat for a few hours and it was really nice to spend time relaxing off the ship. Unfortunately, on our walk back, one of the guys kicked a pile of dog poo … with flip-flops! His feet were covered and we were all in stitches - yuk, poor guy!

Back in Cadiz we spent time lounging on the beautiful sandy beaches and wading in the water. It was just so beautiful. In fact, I think I could live in Cadiz no problem! One night, we all went out to a flamenco show. Fifty of us crammed into a tiny bar with a small stage – three dancers, a guitarist and a singer. They danced and played like there’s no tomorrow. It was bold, striking and passionate. We all had a great time and needless to say he boys were all totally mesmerized …

I had a great time in Cadiz. Barcelona next … can’t wait for more of Spain and mom's visit!