Fiesta loca de Cádiz

Carnaval 2008! By far the most ridiculous experience that I have ever had in my entire life. We all think that New Year's Eve in New York City is packed, but the city of Cádiz, Spain was absolutely full to the brim with people in crazy costumes and partying harder than most Americans do for their 21st birthdays.

The girls and I had bought our train tickets to the beautiful ancient beach city the day before for this festival in order to make sure that we could get to the city that was 2 hours south of Sevilla. I'm glad that we had because even with our tickets we were sitting on the floor of the train unable to get a seat. We got all dressed up in our costumes because Carnaval in Cádiz is a combination of Halloween and Mardi Gras with a little extra oomph! We thought that we might have over done it a little bit, but it turns out that there are people who go all the way with their costumes!

We arrived early for the celebration in order to take in our surroundings before the streets were swarmed by masses of Spaniards and foreigners who wanted to have a good time. We went down to the beach, had some tinto de verano as we watched the sun set, and then grabbed a little something to eat before the craziness ensued. Caroline, Betsy, Alison, Whitney and myself walked straight into the city center right into the plaza in front of the Cathedral. This was where the most craziness happened. People were drinking everything under the sun wearing all sorts of costumes and masks, some were even playing with a jump rope! It was soo much fun!!!

After staying up with the rest of the city until 4:30 in the morning, we decided that it would be a good time to make our way back to the train station and try to make the first train home that we could. 5:10 came rolling around and everyone was fighting to get through the crowd and get on the train. Fortunately we all made it and even got seats this time! After passing out for 2 hours, we returned to Sevilla at 7:15 in the morning and had to wait for a taxi. I ended up getting into my bed around 8 am...and it was totally worth it!

Cádiz was one of those experiences that you have to have, but I definitely will not be going back anytime soon.

Next stop...GRANADA!