San Blas is a group of 365 islands in the Caribbean along the northern coastline of Panama. They are fabulous destination for sailing yachts or for those wanting to charter a yacht locally, bareboat or crewed. Splendidly safe, turquoise waters surround the islands. There are many fine spots for anchoring. The island group lies just north from the equator and enjoys balmy, tropical weather all year round. However, perhaps the major attraction of sailing San Blas, however, is the indigenous Kuna people and their fascinating culture.
Only about forty isles have a significant population. Some are populated by one or a few families who take care of the coconut palms. Most islands are totally uninhabited leaving ample scope for adventurous sailors to play Robinson Crusoe.
Drop anchor, launch the tender and find one of many secluded beaches. Walk along its powder sand where the only footprints will be those you make. Doze on the sand and enjoy its warmth as you let your mind drift. The only sound will be birds above and the soothing rhythm of tiny waves lapping the shore.
The Kuna value communal self-sufficiency. For example, they do not allow foreigners to own businesses or land in their communities. However, the Kuna are a naturally friendly and hospitable people that welcome tourists.
As lunchtime approaches, wave hello to the fishermen as they sail by in their ulu canoes, traditional craft they have fashioned out of wood like their forebears have for centuries. Purchase some of their catch that might include fresh lobsters, king crabs and an endless variety of local fish.
The San Blas is home for the Kuna, a proud people with an ancestry that dates back over 500 years. They Kuna have fiercely retained their culture despite domination by early Spanish conquistadors and, in modern times, by several Panamanian governments. Having suffered regrettable exploitation through most of their history, the Kuna protect their islands guardedly. They are commercially savvy and have a longstanding preference for trading goods through family owned establishments.
Women hold a special place in the Kuna culture. Families are matrilineal, meaning a bridegroom moves to become part of the family of the bride. He also takes the last name of that family. Women wear brightly colored dresses or molas with ornamental beads on their lower legs and arms. They favor certain colors including fuchsia, orange, yellow and gray. These traditional outfits are distinctive and constitute a textile art form that speaks to the pride women take in their appearance.
There is enough to see and do in the islands to fill a two-week itinerary, even longer. Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities are world class, including amazing coral reefs that are rich in color and vibrant with sea life. Popular islets include Cayo Limon, Cayo Holandeses and the intriguly named Dog Island. Seasoned sailors that have gone sailing San Blas leave vow to return again. Be careful however, the name can be confusing. Be sure not get it mixed up with regions carrying the same name near Cuzco in Peru, Buenos Aires in Argentina or the Riviera Nayarit on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
Only about forty isles have a significant population. Some are populated by one or a few families who take care of the coconut palms. Most islands are totally uninhabited leaving ample scope for adventurous sailors to play Robinson Crusoe.
Drop anchor, launch the tender and find one of many secluded beaches. Walk along its powder sand where the only footprints will be those you make. Doze on the sand and enjoy its warmth as you let your mind drift. The only sound will be birds above and the soothing rhythm of tiny waves lapping the shore.
The Kuna value communal self-sufficiency. For example, they do not allow foreigners to own businesses or land in their communities. However, the Kuna are a naturally friendly and hospitable people that welcome tourists.
As lunchtime approaches, wave hello to the fishermen as they sail by in their ulu canoes, traditional craft they have fashioned out of wood like their forebears have for centuries. Purchase some of their catch that might include fresh lobsters, king crabs and an endless variety of local fish.
The San Blas is home for the Kuna, a proud people with an ancestry that dates back over 500 years. They Kuna have fiercely retained their culture despite domination by early Spanish conquistadors and, in modern times, by several Panamanian governments. Having suffered regrettable exploitation through most of their history, the Kuna protect their islands guardedly. They are commercially savvy and have a longstanding preference for trading goods through family owned establishments.
Women hold a special place in the Kuna culture. Families are matrilineal, meaning a bridegroom moves to become part of the family of the bride. He also takes the last name of that family. Women wear brightly colored dresses or molas with ornamental beads on their lower legs and arms. They favor certain colors including fuchsia, orange, yellow and gray. These traditional outfits are distinctive and constitute a textile art form that speaks to the pride women take in their appearance.
There is enough to see and do in the islands to fill a two-week itinerary, even longer. Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities are world class, including amazing coral reefs that are rich in color and vibrant with sea life. Popular islets include Cayo Limon, Cayo Holandeses and the intriguly named Dog Island. Seasoned sailors that have gone sailing San Blas leave vow to return again. Be careful however, the name can be confusing. Be sure not get it mixed up with regions carrying the same name near Cuzco in Peru, Buenos Aires in Argentina or the Riviera Nayarit on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
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