For many people, clear blue ocean, sandy beaches and palm trees waving in the breeze sound like the recipe for an idyllic holiday. Unfortunately many of the world's great beach destinations are overrun by tourists and large resort developments, so that there is almost nothing of the local culture left. If you're looking for a slice of paradise with a good dollop of local flavor thrown in, you may want to consider one of the San Blas tours on offer.
San Blas is an archipelago off the Panama coast. There are about 400 islands in the group and only about 40 are inhabited. These islands are relatively isolated and you won't find any large hotel developments here. In addition, you'll need to fly to the islands in a light airplane or get there by boat since they're not on any of the major transport routes.
A stay in one of the relatively basic accommodation options on the San Blas islands will make you feel like a castaway. You can spend your days lazing in a hammock or on the beach. If you feel like doing something more active, you can go snorkeling or sailing.
The factor that makes the archipelago different from other destinations is its local people. San Blas forms part of the Kuna Yala region of Panama and belongs to the Kuna people. These people still maintain most of their traditions and the women are something to behold in their traditional clothing and face paint. A guided tour of some of the Kuna villages or a home stay with a local family is a great way to learn more about the people and their way of life.
In order to protect Kuna cultural traditions and the environment, responsible travel is very important. You should also treat the local people with the utmost respect. You'll probably want to take pictures, especially of the women, but never do so without their permission and be prepared to pay them a small fee. Also remember that the Kuna are quite conservative and you need to dress accordingly so as not to offend.
The tropical climate means that you need to pack for warm and humid weather. If you go in the Northern Hemisphere's summer months, you'll be in Panama during rainy season so you may want to take an umbrella or raincoat and a light sweater too. Rain usually falls in the afternoon, though, leaving the mornings sunny and clear.
Because the islands are quite isolated, it's a good idea to bring enough sunscreen, insect repellent and toiletries when you visit. These items might be difficult to find in island shops and will be much more expensive than on the mainland. Also remember that ATMs aren't as readily available as elsewhere and you'll need to bring enough cash. Panama uses the US dollar as its currency.
Visiting the archipelago is simple if you make use of a travel operator that offers San Blas tours. These tours usually include transport and accommodation and will take you to several destinations in the region. This is a good alternative too if you want to travel from Panama to Colombia, since some tours will take you all the way from one country to the other and you won't have to travel across the risky Darien Gap. Be sure to choose a smaller, locally-owned business rather than a cruise line if you want to minimize the negative impact of your visit.
San Blas is an archipelago off the Panama coast. There are about 400 islands in the group and only about 40 are inhabited. These islands are relatively isolated and you won't find any large hotel developments here. In addition, you'll need to fly to the islands in a light airplane or get there by boat since they're not on any of the major transport routes.
A stay in one of the relatively basic accommodation options on the San Blas islands will make you feel like a castaway. You can spend your days lazing in a hammock or on the beach. If you feel like doing something more active, you can go snorkeling or sailing.
The factor that makes the archipelago different from other destinations is its local people. San Blas forms part of the Kuna Yala region of Panama and belongs to the Kuna people. These people still maintain most of their traditions and the women are something to behold in their traditional clothing and face paint. A guided tour of some of the Kuna villages or a home stay with a local family is a great way to learn more about the people and their way of life.
In order to protect Kuna cultural traditions and the environment, responsible travel is very important. You should also treat the local people with the utmost respect. You'll probably want to take pictures, especially of the women, but never do so without their permission and be prepared to pay them a small fee. Also remember that the Kuna are quite conservative and you need to dress accordingly so as not to offend.
The tropical climate means that you need to pack for warm and humid weather. If you go in the Northern Hemisphere's summer months, you'll be in Panama during rainy season so you may want to take an umbrella or raincoat and a light sweater too. Rain usually falls in the afternoon, though, leaving the mornings sunny and clear.
Because the islands are quite isolated, it's a good idea to bring enough sunscreen, insect repellent and toiletries when you visit. These items might be difficult to find in island shops and will be much more expensive than on the mainland. Also remember that ATMs aren't as readily available as elsewhere and you'll need to bring enough cash. Panama uses the US dollar as its currency.
Visiting the archipelago is simple if you make use of a travel operator that offers San Blas tours. These tours usually include transport and accommodation and will take you to several destinations in the region. This is a good alternative too if you want to travel from Panama to Colombia, since some tours will take you all the way from one country to the other and you won't have to travel across the risky Darien Gap. Be sure to choose a smaller, locally-owned business rather than a cruise line if you want to minimize the negative impact of your visit.
About the Author:
You can visit the website bluesailing.net for more helpful information about Live The Island Life With San Blas Tours
0 Response to "Experience Paradise With San Blas Tours"
Post a Comment