If you're looking for a new holiday destination, you've probably already considered a tropical island. Maybe you've been put off by the idea of sharing that island with hordes of other tourists coming in on cruise ships, crowding the beaches and then staying in large, ugly chain hotels with no local flavor. Luckily it's possible to go to an idyllic beach destination where you can relax in peaceful surroundings while learning more about a fascinating local culture. The secret is in booking San Blas tours.
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.
The islands make for the perfect beach getaway if you prefer a quiet, laid-back castaway experience. Accommodation is generally quite basic and there isn't much to do other than laze in a hammock. Some of the islands have coral reefs where the snorkeling is good and you can also go sailing in the region.
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.
When you visit San Blas, it's important to respect the Kuna people and to travel responsibly. For example, show an interest in the cultural traditions and dress modestly as a sign of respect. Always ask permission before you photograph people and be prepared for the fact that they may charge a small fee for photographs.
When you pack, keep in mind that the climate is hot and humid. One or two light sweaters are probably the only warm clothing you'll need. Even during the rainy summer season it's rarely cold but an umbrella or rain gear will come in handy. During rainy season, the days are usually sunny with showers in the late afternoons.
The islands' isolation means that transporting goods here is difficult. Items like toiletries, sunscreen and mosquito repellent can be very expensive, so bring your own supply. Also bring plenty of US dollars in cash, since this is the currency used in Panama and you may not always find an ATM.
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.
The islands make for the perfect beach getaway if you prefer a quiet, laid-back castaway experience. Accommodation is generally quite basic and there isn't much to do other than laze in a hammock. Some of the islands have coral reefs where the snorkeling is good and you can also go sailing in the region.
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.
When you visit San Blas, it's important to respect the Kuna people and to travel responsibly. For example, show an interest in the cultural traditions and dress modestly as a sign of respect. Always ask permission before you photograph people and be prepared for the fact that they may charge a small fee for photographs.
When you pack, keep in mind that the climate is hot and humid. One or two light sweaters are probably the only warm clothing you'll need. Even during the rainy summer season it's rarely cold but an umbrella or rain gear will come in handy. During rainy season, the days are usually sunny with showers in the late afternoons.
The islands' isolation means that transporting goods here is difficult. Items like toiletries, sunscreen and mosquito repellent can be very expensive, so bring your own supply. Also bring plenty of US dollars in cash, since this is the currency used in Panama and you may not always find an ATM.
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.