Chapter 14: The Big Goodbye

It was now Wednesday 6 September, and Mum and Nick's last day in Gibraltar. They would be flying back to the UK later that afternoon. Mum and Nick had arranged to meet Nick's friend David later that morning. I was up early, so I decided to take the rest of my belongings (that were still at the apartment) to my accommodation while Mum and Nick got ready.

Last Day

The bus terminus at Market Place, wasn't far from Ocean Village, and as I got there I was just in time to catch a bus to Europa Point. I was already starting to get a bit of use out of my bus pass, and used it again to get back into town after dumping my stuff in my room.

It was worth the effort - or was it?

Mum and Nick had met David at a café called the Copacabana, about half way up Main Street. David was a cheerful and genuine guy. He told us stories about his life, and his work, while giving treats to some of the dogs that passed by. Listening to him, it was clear how much Gibraltar was changing, from a quiet traditional town, to an overdeveloped metropolis, where money was more important than community.

Copacabana - a great venue!

After meeting David, we did a bit shopping on Main Street, and returned to the apartment for a cup of tea. All too quickly it was time to say goodbye. I took a last look at the view from the balcony, and Mum and Nick both wished me well. I walked back over to the bus station, ready to use my pass for the third time today. It was 12.30. There were no buses, so it looked like I'd have to wait a while. I'd have to wait longer than I thought! A few minutes later a woman from the bus company came over shouting "No buses, the buses are on strike". This was annoying. If I'd known I would have brought my car into town. I later found out that the strike started at 12.00. If I'd been a bit quicker I would have caught one.

Last look from the balcony!

I went back to the apartment, and Mum and Nick were surprised to see me. I asked them if they knew of any taxi numbers. The first number we tried didn't speak English (or so they claimed). The second firm we called said they would try to get one out to us. I went outside the apartment to wait, but nothing appeared. I had a class at university that afternoon, so I needed to get back. As I was starting to lose hope, a taxi appeared. The driver warned me he only took cash (what is it with Gibraltar and cash?). I didn't have any, but said if he stopped at an ATM on route, I would get some. So off we went. The roads were busy, and we passed many people standing at bus stops, obviously unaware of the strike yet. The driver had the local news on the radio, which   talked a lot about the strikes, but did not say when the strike was likely to be over. When the driver stopped outside Europa Suites, I expected the fare to be hiked up, due to the strike. But it was the standard fare, close to £20 (which is expensive enough mind you!).

This is the usual scene on Market Place

The bus strike would last almost 2 weeks, and cause a lot of disruption and inconvenience to my fellow students. I was lucky I had my car to go grocery shopping, but the university had to hire special buses to take students to the supermarket. I texted Mum later that night to check she and Nick had got home ok. Their plane had been delayed, but they got home eventually. I guess travel anywhere can be open to disruption, whether its between countries or just down the road!

Gibraltar Airport

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