The Pillars of Hercules

Yesterday we crossed the Strait of Gibraltar to go from Algeciras in Spain to Tangier in Morocco.  The Strait connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and legend has it that it was created by Hercules.  During one of his 12 labours Hercules had to cross the mountain that was once Atlas.  However, instead of climbing the mountain, he smashed it with his Herculean strength.  The result of this was the connection of the Atlantic to the Mediterranean and formation of the Strait of Gibraltar.  Either side of the strait forms the Pillars of Hercules.  Europe and Africa are separated by about 14 kms at the narrowest point of the strait.

We endured a 3.5 hour bus ride from Seville to Algeciras and another 3 hour ferry ride to get to Tangier.  Though Spain is only just across the water, it feels a world away.  This is the Muslim world, and the architecture, clothing, food, aromas, and daily calls from the minaret make sure you know it.

Jay and Phil have now left us to go home, and we are in a country that feels totally foreign.  This, to me, is the beginning of our adventure, and Di and I are ready to dive in.