It’s no secret, I miss a good book-store. Maybe it’s the Portlander in me, but browsing all the latest books, sipping coffee and the quiet murmur of people is one of my top 5 favorite things. However, move yourself to a foreign country and things get a little more complicated. Book store culture isn’t quite the same in Cartagena but that all changed this past week.
The Logos Hope is in port.
Logos Hope is the world’s largest floating book fair, operated by the international charity GBA Ships. Traveling from port to port around the globe, the ship offers affordable books, educational resources, and community programs aimed at sharing knowledge, hope, and practical help. Beyond its onboard bookshop, Logos Hope also supports local communities through volunteer projects, cultural exchange, and outreach initiatives, making each visit both a meaningful and memorable experience for the ports it serves. While in port, they were helping connect locals with eye exams and getting reading glasses.
We were able to take a group tour with the US Embassy group and it was so inspiring to see so many people enjoying this experience, both as staff and patrons. It was a win-win for everyone.
The heart of Logos Hope is its diverse community of staff and students who live and work onboard the ship, representing dozens of countries from around the world. These volunteers commit months or even years to serving together, taking on roles ranging from booksellers and cooks to engineers, teachers, and community outreach workers. Many are young adults and students who view the experience as both service and personal growth, gaining cross-cultural skills and lifelong friendships. It is an inspiring experience to be abroad this ship.
Over 400 international employees devote a year or longer to work on this floating book store, promoting education, literacy, and social awareness around the world. What an awesome opportunity and how great to bring this experience to people all over the world?
I am often in awe of the organizations and experiences that we have discovered while living here. I was impressed and inspired by the people and the mission of this team, that I otherwise would never have known about. When the Logos Hope leaves port, she will venture north up to Guatemala and various stops in Mexico until Summer.
So thankful she stopped here for a bit, giving us a glimpse into wonderful bits of this world and new reading material. I am hoping I can squeeze in another trip before she sets sail. If you are looking for more Cartagena adventures, check out some of these posts:
exploring:
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