The Rock of Gibraltar

This is definitely one for the bucket list.  Gibraltar is owned by the British and they have done everything they can to make it authentically English.  You have the streets that look like something right out of a Harry Potter movie with plenty of pubs and fish & chip shops.  Plus around every corner you encounter a large cannon emplacement, a walled fortress or a cemetery dating back to Lord Nelson and the days of wooden ships. 

We departed the ship at 0815 and strolled into the town in search of a large rock to scale, wild apes to view and a warm octopus’ salad.  More on the salad later.  We made our way to Casemates Square and down Main Street to the cable cars that go up to the top of the Rock.  I know I said the word “scale” earlier, but lets’ face it, we are not getting any younger and it is 1400 meters to the top.  In true first world fashion we just threw money at the problem and found ourselves with a short cable car ride and a wonderful view.  The terrific Wi-Fi signal for the next 3 hours was an added benefit. 

The Straights of Gibraltar are roughly 7 miles wide so from the top of the Rock you could see Morocco to the south.  The main draw beyond the history and view is a large band of Barbary Macaques.  These tail-less monkeys are the star attraction for the hordes of tourists that make the trek up to the top.  They are quite comfortable around people and they will not hesitate to jump up on your shoulder and help themselves to any food you have in your hand or stashed in your backpack.  It really is entertaining to watch. 

After strolling along the summit, we headed back down the cobblestone streets to Casemates Square.  We were searching for a café where James had eaten when he was doing ops here in 2001.  They had a warm salad with grilled octopus that he remembered fondly.  The square is the same, the restaurant is gone. C'est la vie.    

 This pic had to be taken.

For those keeping track, Gibraltar is at 36.15 N, 5.35 W. Weather was partly cloudy and 65 degrees. Next stop is Cartagena, Spain.

While we did not see Elvis, the house band was playing "Don't Be Cruel" as we sailed away. A sign?

Cheers,
P&J