The End of an Era? Cartagena Says Goodbye to a Classic
For centuries, the clip-clop of hooves has been as much a part of Cartagena’s vibrant streetscape as its colorful colonial buildings and Caribbean breezes. Tourists flocked to experience the romantic charm of a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic walled city, creating unforgettable memories under the tropical sun. But those days are officially numbered.
In a bold decision, city officials in Cartagena, Colombia, are rolling out a plan to completely replace these traditional rides. Their vision? A fleet of eco-friendly, modern electric buggies. The goal is clear: usher in a new era of sustainable tourism and directly address pressing concerns about the strenuous conditions the working horses often face.
Why Is Everyone Talking About This? Tradition, Tourism, & Animal Welfare Clash!
This isn’t just a simple upgrade; it’s a deeply divisive issue tearing at the heart of this historic city. On one side, passionate advocates for animal welfare are cheering the decision, highlighting the brutal tropical heat, the constant navigation of busy streets, and the heavy loads horses are forced to carry. They argue that electric buggies offer a humane, responsible, and modern alternative that aligns with evolving ethical standards for tourism.
On the other side, traditionalists and many local vendors are raising alarm bells louder than ever. They fear that losing the Cartagena horse carriages means losing a significant, irreplaceable piece of the city’s unique identity and tourist appeal. Will visitors still feel that old-world magic without the equine companions? More critically, what about the livelihoods of the carriage drivers and the families who depend on this centuries-old trade, many of whom have passed the profession down through generations?
The debate rages on, pitting the preservation of invaluable cultural heritage against the evolving demands of ethical and sustainable tourism. Everyone agrees Cartagena needs to evolve, but how to do it without sacrificing its soul is the million-dollar question.
So, what’s your take? Is Cartagena making a necessary stride towards a more humane and sustainable future, or are they erasing a vital part of their soul for the sake of modernity? The city is watching, and the world is definitely talking. Tell us what you think in the comments below – is this change groundbreaking or heartbreaking?
Fonte: https://www.npr.org