Calle de las Chancletas (Flip Flops Street), Cartagena

Curbed by Plazuela del Pozo, at one end, and the emblematic Tienda Las Tablitas shop at the other, lies yet another landmark of Gethsemane, Calle de las Chancletas or Flip Flops Street.

The origin of Tienda Las Tablitas – a liquor store, mini-market, bar, and even a casino, all wrapped into one (seemingly as old as the neighborhood itself, if only to believe that in the mid-1600s they already had this sort of establishments in Gethsemane) – is a mystery to many. Much like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it seems miraculous that this iconic corner shop still stands. Aged definitely over 100 years, it was built from maritime timber packing material and is one of the top attractions in the area. As well as with locals it is very popular with photographers and is a must-see location for those visiting Cartagena's Gethsemane for the first time.

Back in colonial times, they say, boatmen from Barú and Tierrabomba used to come to the area to sell products, such as cassava and corn, on one of the nearby bridges. Their wives would come along and, with permission from locals, make them dinner, usually a sancocho (traditional soup/stew), in a designated spot on this street. The men, who had spent much time in the water, would leave their flip-flops drying in the sun on the sidewalk as they sat down to eat; this is how the street got its name.

And while the local residents are not strangers to flip flops either, it is the roses, creepers, and colonial architecture that are now the most prevalent illustration of this area. It is also safe to admit that, in terms of natural charm, Calle de las Chancletas is second to none in Gethsemane, always radiant and inviting to stop and contemplate the colorful facades, while snapping a few photos.