Stimulate All Five Senses by Visiting a Market

 

One of the greatest joys of traveling the world—especially as a solo traveler—is the opportunity to lose yourself in a bustling, colorful marketplace. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of a culture than to walk among the stalls, soaking in the symphony of sights, sounds, and smells. I’ve visited markets on nearly every continent, and each one tells a different story. You’ll find grandmothers selecting the perfect produce, children begging for a sweet treat, vendors passionately describing their wares, and the scent of fresh spices mingling with sizzling street food. It’s a full-body experience that wakes up your senses and grounds you in the authenticity of place.

When I visit a market, I let myself wander slowly, open to discovery. I taste the local snacks, ask questions about unfamiliar ingredients, and watch the unspoken choreography between vendors and customers. The displays themselves are a visual feast—vivid fruits stacked in perfect pyramids, dried herbs spilling out of handwoven baskets, fish on ice shimmering under the morning sun. Sometimes I buy something small, like a handmade kitchen tool or a local pastry, but often, it’s the energy of the space that stays with me more than any souvenir. These marketplaces are not just places to shop—they are the beating heart of the community.

And if a traditional open-air market isn’t available nearby, don’t overlook the local supermarket. I absolutely love exploring large grocery stores in different countries. They’re quiet cultural classrooms, revealing what people eat, how much they pay, what they value, and how food is presented and preserved. From the bakery section to the instant noodles aisle, you’ll spot everything from regional flavors to beloved brands. Even the carts, checkout lanes, and packaging tell a story. So whether you’re standing in a centuries-old souk or a shiny modern supermarket, take your time. Watch, listen, taste, and learn. You’ll come away with far more than groceries—you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of a place and its people.

Cartagena, Spain— two tours in one day!

 I finally did it! I took two shore excursions in one day!!!! Today, I visited intriguing Cartagena Spain!

Two shore excursions in one day:

walking tour and trolley train tour December 1, 2024.

Here is the brochure description of today’s walking tour:

Cartagena on Foot

Approx. Duration: 4 Hrs.

Join your local guide on a walking tour of this fascinating city, inhabited by several cultures since Carthaginian times which have left their mark on its artistic and maritime heritage.

Follow your guide to the Panoramic Lift to the Castle of Conception, built over the remains of the Moorish Alcazar. From this vantage point, enjoy superb views of the city and harbor.

It was chosen as one of three main naval bases in Spain during the 18th century. The incredible remains of the Roman Theatre were only discovered back in the late 1980's, it is believed to have accommodated up to 7,000 spectators. 

Continue your walking tour in the heart of Cartagena and learn why it was a crossroad of cultures and one of the most important cities in the Mediterranean for nearly 3,000 years. 

In the old quarter you'll find several modernist town houses built between the second half of the 19th century and the first decades of the 20th century. The entrance to the city center, dominated by the Town Hall, is a gem of modernist architecture. 

Finally, we toured the fascinating Roman Theater Museum that allow visitors to explore these discoveries in depth, offering insight into Cartagena’s pivotal role in Mediterranean history.

On my trolley train tour later this afternoon, I revisited many of the sites that were included this morning and saw everything from a different perspective.

Here is the brochure description of the train trolley tour:

Cartagena By Trolley Train

Approx. Duration: 1 ½ Hrs.

See the highlights of Cartagena by trolley train, a delightful mode of transportation that will take you to historically important landmarks and a scenic park with breathtaking views.

After departing from the pier, you will enjoy an enlightening and wonderfully panoramic ride through Cartagena on a trolley train. The city dates back to 227 B.C... when the Carthaginians settled here. They chose the area because it was surrounded by five hills and somewhat easy to defend. Nevertheless, the Romans, Visgoths and Muslims all conquered Cartagena, until the heavily fortified Concepción Castle was built atop the highest of the hills. Considering the city's long history, there is plenty to see from the comfortables trolley train. The highlight from a historical standpoint is the ancient Roman theatre, which can seat up to 6,000 spectators. Since being restored in 2003, the theatre holds-performances once again. The building in ruins adjoining the theatre is Santa Maria Cathedral, which was heavily damaged in Spain's Civil War. Not far away, you will pass the mutts domed, exceptionally ornate town hall. Although beautiful now, the modernist building suffered considerable structural damage shortly after being built in 1907 because able s constructed on unstable land reclaimed from the sea. One of the most picturesque spots in Cartagena is Torres Park, where you will pause for photos.

Cartagena is renowned for its

archaeological treasures, which reflect its layered history. Some of the most significant finds include the Roman Theater, rediscovered in the late 20th century, and the Augusteum, an ancient temple dedicated to Emperor Augustus. Excavations have uncovered remnants from Punic, Roman, Byzantine, and Moorish periods, showcasing the city's continuous occupation and cultural evolution.

I walked more than 15,000 steps today!