After a short stay in Medellin, we had the breakfast at 5am and departed the hotel at 6am to the airport.
On the way to the airport, we were informed that we were upgraded to the first class along with eight other group members. Great! We were happy!
But, the upgrade to the first class was not as exciting as expected because we ended up dozing off the whole flight time. There was no other first class experience than the seat. Oh well... Better than nothing.
The flight took us to Cartagena (Cartagena de Indias), a magical city nestled on the Caribbean Sea with magnificent architecture, massive fortifications and fabulous sea breezes. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is considered one of the continent's cultural treasures with its remarkably intact historic walled city.
Upon arrival, our bus took us to a local school that Gate 1 Travel supports. The school was started by a retired pilot and a retired teacher from Italy with a few children and has now grown into a school that houses 250 children with 14 teachers. The parents pay $9 per month and Gate 1 Travel and Lions Club sponsor their programs.
The students performed dances including salsa lessons. The visit to a school in a poor area by the sea, namely La Boquilla, was an enlightenment that Gate 1 Travel sponsors at least one foundation in each country they operate. It was wonderful! It has become one more reason that we will use Gate 1 Travel if possible at all.
After a quick salsa lesson, we were dragged out to perform the dance. Oh we.....
They served us with snacks, including arepas.
The group photo did not come out as nice as the people are, but we were happy.
On the way out, we passed by the beach shore with a contrast between the have's and have-nots.
No comments:
Post a Comment