After two restful days at sea, we arrive in Cartagena Spain for an 8:00 arrival. Spaindaytours will again provide the tour as we visit Murcia and Cartagena with a full-day tour. This is a view of the city as we tie up to the pier. City hall is the building with the clock. I have not been able to determine what the other buildings are.

First impressions are lasting impressions and the cruise ship pier and harbor are welcoming.

Before we board our bus, the tour guide checked off our names. I noticee that Mike is once again wearing his shorts and short-sleeved shirt, while others in our Cruise Critic group are bundled up.

As in the other cities in Spain, there are many parks. Some more elaborate than others. This small park caught my eye as we drove past because of the tile work. The trees have been there a long time.

We are on our way to Murcia. Again, as in Almeria, I am impressed with the agricultural community. About 70% of the local vegetable output is exported and 34% of the fruit output.

Vinos de la Tierra is a middle quality wine; one step up from simple table wine. August is the warmest month, with average temperature range from 86 to 69; and JanuaryâÂÂs temperature range is from 59 to 46. I like those numbers! Much better than central Illinois.

According to statistics that I found, the long-term average rainfall in this area is 16 inches; however, recently they have received less than 12 inches. This lack of moisture has caused many of the farmers (mostly coop type operations) to cease growing tomatoes. However, peppers, broccoli, cabbage and artichoke are widely produced.

The change in crop has me wondering. I think the climate change, which so many claim does not exist), will in the long run change our eating habits.