Barranquilla - The New Orleans of Colombia

So we figured out that Barranquilla is basically the New Orleans of Colombia: both are large port cities on the Caribbean; both have mixed populations (that don't always mix) with a strong African influence; both flood regularly; both have old classical style mansions which are crumbling down but exude a neglected old style that needs a little cleaning up; both have hot and humid weather (which right now is not too bad due to winds); both love to party and especially on Mardi Gras/Carnaval time when the whole city takes part!

Throughout the city, the buildings are festooned with the typical Carnaval decorations. This is actually a government office in an old mansion. 

The history of the Carnaval costumes as well as the city as a whole is housed in a run down mansion that serves as a museum now (above). 

We went for a drink at "La Cueva" which was an old bohemian writers hang out - noted now for Gabriel Garcia Marquez' presence (a long time ago - see black and white pic below) and it now has been redone and serves as a restaurant and show-place for arts of all types. While we were there, the "King" of this year's Carnaval (and thus quite a celebrity here) showed up to entertain and be interviewed by the international media, which turned out to include us (see above). He is holding a head as that is part of the character who is the theme of this year's Carnaval. Que Chevere, as the Colombian say, How cool is that!