We are on the train to Cadiz now, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. But I am sure we are somewhere. We recently passed a very desolate looking town with a station named Anarija. About an hour away now we are from Cadiz, which is pronounced ‘Kah-deeth’. Make sure to use your best lisp on that one. As I mentioned in my last post, Cadiz is an ancient little coastal town. In fact, several guide books even say it is the oldest town in all of Europe; some say the oldest town in Western Europe. Either way, it is no modern settlement.
Last night was the most exciting evening yet as we took in a two hour authentic Flamenco dance show at a little old Flamenco club called Los Gallos, in Santa Cruz. Based on the many fading newspaper clippings and black and white photographs on the walls, I would say this place has put on its share of dance shows over the years. We had an idea of what Flamenco dancing was, but mostly we just knew that you were supposed to go see a show when in Spain. Flamenco dancing is a dance performed by one person, for the most part. That dancer, dressed in an elaborate Spanish outfit, is accompanied by a couple of men who strum rustic acoustic guitars and clap a beat – occasionally singing what might be more accurately described as a slow chant. The dance its self is primarily a challenging tap dance that goes from a slow thumping pace to a rapid clickity clackity pace. And yes, that is technical term. The dance also seems to be telling a story as it goes, although I have no clue as to what stories were told to us last night. The dancers were obviously highly skilled and put on an increasingly interesting and exciting performance – prompting the audience in the small and muggy room to cheer loudly at the completion of each song. And after just reading what I wrote, I realize my description might not make it sound all that exciting. But it all came together because of the authentic environment of the club and it really did make for a very enjoyable show. You can see a quick video I took below!
The show ended close a little before 1am, so we went straight for the hotel after getting out. Having read many, many warnings about Sevilla and the frequent muggings, especially at night, we were a bit fearful of our late night walk back. We had to walk through many little alley ways in the old town and exercised extra caution, but we never really felt unsafe. Fortunately we have had no problems at all with crime. That has not stopped us from taking preventative measures, but we do feel safe and have not had any problems enjoying our trip because of it. I love my little slim Kodak because I can slip it in the pocket of my jeans and never have to have it hanging around like a big tourist sign on my shoulder. Unfortunately I was unable to find the charger for the camera before we left, so after 5 days the battery is dead and I have had to resort to using my slightly older, but much bulkier, Kodak.
Well we have two nights in Cadiz at a Tryp hotel right on the beach. Looking forward to some relaxing beach time, but we are also hopeful of checking out the old town. I am sure I will have plenty to write by the next time I get to post. I hope you all are enjoying following along with us and having as much fun as we are!
Karl
