|
|
 |
 |
|
October 19, 2024 Marti Eicholz Our ship, The Odyssey, gracefully sailed into the Port of Ceuta, Spain, a unique and picturesque seaport nestled at the gateway to the Strait of Gibraltar. Ceuta is often affectionately referred to as “a little piece of Spain in Morocco,” capturing its distinct blend of European and North African influences. The city boasts a rich tapestry of cultures: about sixty percent of its residents are Spanish or Roman Catholic, while thirty-nine percent identify as Moroccan or Muslim. This remarkable diversity is reflected in Ceuta’s open and inclusive atmosphere, where Christian, Muslim, Hindu, and Jewish communities coexist and interact harmoniously. The city is embraced by the impressive Royal Ramparts, striking fortifications-built centuries ago for defense but now standing as enduring symbols of Ceuta’s storied past. Visitors often remark on the city’s neat, orderly appearance, and its reputation for being safe, calm, and peaceful makes it an inviting destination. Spanish is the language spoken here — genuine, authentic Spanish that echoes through the city’s lively streets and plazas. The color yellow stands out throughout Ceuta, brightening the surroundings and contributing to the city’s vibrant character. The vibrant port city of Ceuta, Spain is where the blend of European-style architecture creates a unique atmosphere. Visitors can easily explore the area by biking or walking, taking in the picturesque surroundings at a leisurely pace. The heart of the city is Plaza de los Reyes, a charming square named after the statues of kings and home to the striking Iglesia de San Francisco, recognizable by its cheerful yellow facade. Strolling along Plaza del Revillion, you’ll find the city’s main shopping street, bustling with local boutiques and lively cafes. Another notable landmark is Plaza de la Constitucion, which features a remarkable bronze statue of a half-naked lady, unveiled in 2017. This statue depicts Calypso, the goddess from Homer’s Odyssey who famously rescued Ulysses after he was shipwrecked near the fabled Pillars of Hercules. The citizens embraced this statue with enthusiasm, viewing it as a powerful symbol that celebrates and strengthens Ceuta’s rich historical and cultural heritage. In the vicinity, six allegorical statues grace the area, each representing important concepts: Peace, Africa, Industry, Arts, Trade, and Work. Another iconic monument in Ceuta is the statue of Hercules, depicted separating his legendary pillars, further tying the city to its mythological roots. For those seeking relaxation, the beautiful beach is just a short 500-yard walk from the ship, making it an accessible spot to unwind after exploring all that Ceuta has to offer. A must-see attraction is the Mediterranean Marine Park, located right in the heart of the city. This vibrant park features a stunning blue salt-water lake, creating a picturesque oasis amidst the urban landscape. Cascading waterfalls add to the serene atmosphere, while a spacious solarium — bordered by graceful palm trees — offers a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The palm trees elegantly frame this central urban hub, giving the city a distinct and inviting character. Ceuta’s cuisine is a true celebration of the sea, with fish and seafood taking center stage on nearly every menu. From the freshest catch to a wide variety of preparations, seafood lovers will find themselves in paradise. Imagine savoring grilled prawns, sprinkled generously with large flakes of sea salt and fragrant garlic, served hot and fresh from the grill. You might also enjoy cured tuna, rich and flavorful, or indulge in plump anchovies artfully arranged atop crispy potato chips. For those who prefer something fried, fatter sardines, coated in a light batter and fried to golden perfection, are typically served with a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor. The dining culture in Ceuta is unique and follows a relaxed rhythm throughout the day. Breakfast is typically served between 7:00 and 9:00 AM and is intentionally light, offering a gentle start to the morning. Around 10:00 to 11:00 AM, locals enjoy the “Apertitivo” — often referred to as a second, lighter breakfast. This might include specialties such as grated or blended tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and served atop crusty bread. By late morning, between 11:00 and 11:30 AM, it’s common to see people enjoying Spanish vermouth or a cold beer, usually accompanied by a selection of light tapas, creating a convivial and social atmosphere as the day unfolds. In Cueta, lunch is truly an event — a time when the entire community comes together with a shared purpose. It’s regarded almost as a sacred ritual, where everyone pauses from their daily routines to enjoy each other’s company and savor the meal. Traditionally, lunch lasts from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and features a generous three or four-course spread, complete with a bottle of wine and a delectable dessert to finish. The leisurely pace encourages conversation and connection, making it much more than just a midday meal. Dinner, on the other hand, is celebrated much later in the evening, typically between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. This meal is intentionally light, meant more for socializing and relaxation than for indulgence. Just thinking about these meals gets my appetite going, so I decide to dress up for the evening and head over to the Morning Light Lounge. There, I’m greeted by the soothing melodies of Mark playing pre-dinner music at the piano, creating a warm and elegant atmosphere. When it’s finally time to dine, the experience does not disappoint. Tonight, I choose to start with the perfectly seared crab cake, followed by a flavorful main course of ginger and herb-crusted codfish served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and tender kale. The menu offers a variety of tempting dishes, guaranteeing that everyone finds something to enjoy — and the satisfied smiles around the room are a testament to that. It’s been a truly delightful and memorable dinner, leaving me feeling content and grateful for the experience. After dinner, the evening’s entertainment options are plentiful. I can immerse myself in live music for pure listening pleasure, dance the night away to the vibrant rhythms of the live band Traverse’89, or unwind with a movie. As the night unfolds, our ship sets sail at 10:00 PM, heading toward Gibraltar, UK, promising new adventures on the horizon. |
|
Copyright © 2024 All rights reserved |
