After seeing how gorgeous the Adriatic Sea looked from the Old Bell Tower, Jennifer and I decided that we would walk to the harbour to see some of the boats for ourselves. Judging from the distance, we assumed that we had about a 30 minute walk ahead of us, so we happily set forth. Walking around a new city is an awesome way to meet the locals and see interesting things that you would miss if you were driving instead.
The weather during October was sunny, but the brisk Autumn winds had arrived, so our jackets were buttoned all the way up, and our hands were stuck into our pockets. Being so close to the harbour, the sea breeze didn't help matters but we were determined to see the harbour for ourselves, up close and personal.
We passed through many small parks throughout Koper, and they were well taken care of. The trees were trimmed and there wasn't a speck of garbage in sight. Some of these parks had some interesting stone statues, which simply begged to be photographed. I've always loved the fascination with statues in the Old World, as we don't have as many on our side of the Atlantic Ocean.
Some of these parks were obviously made for children, so entire families were spending the day out. Regardless of the cool temperatures, picnic tables were piled up with goodies while small children played on the swings and slides. Where there weren't parks, it was common to see a group of trees and several benches on the sidewalk for folks who simply want to sit and read or reflect on life.
At this point, we could smell the salt in the air, and soon enough the sea came into view. The harbour in Koper was really pretty and we were apparently allowed to walk on the docks. Many of the small boats that were docked in the harbour were owned by local fishermen, and I could just picture them bringing in the catch of the day.
Regardless of the fact that we were in a harbour and not a beach, the water was crystal clear. The waves were barely rippling the surface and we could actually see fishes swimming between the boats! I've only seen fishes like those on coral reefs before, yet there they were as if the boatyard was their personal playground.
Along the Koper Harbour were several small souvenir shops selling everything from beads and mugs to household magnets to remind you of your visit. I collect magnets, so I browsed through their selection, and finally settled on a magnet of the flag of Slovenia which I got for 2 euros. Jennifer opted for cap which she said her father would love. Ahhh, what started out as a simple walk to Koper Harbour, now ran the risk of becoming a shopping spree.
Such is life when you're on the road. If you don't take photos or buy souvenirs, all you will have are memories which change and fade with time. The stroll to Koper harbour was relaxing, and we had a great time.