Thursday, October 31, 2013

Sailing San Blas Is One Of The Hidden Treasures Of Panama

By Allyson Burke


The San Blas islands are a beautiful group of 365 islets lying off the coast of Panama in the Caribbean Sea. They are perfect destination for a sailing holiday. If a cerulean sea, safe and comfortable anchorages, multicolored coral reefs, swaying palm trees, pristine beaches with powder-fine sand, balmy weather, and friendly locals with an interesting history hold any attraction, then sailing San Blas will be richly satisfying.

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.

Wave to fishermen as they pass by in their distinctive wooden ulu canoes, crafted by hand using methods handed down through the centuries by their ancestors. Buy some of their catch and use the opportunity to barter and strike up a friendship.

The Kuna achieved a form of semi-independence status in 1925. Today they are structured into 49 nine separate communities each with its own political organization. A chief known as a Saila functions as both the political and spiritual leader of that community. They are largely self-governed through the Kuna General Congress which itself is headed by three Great Sailas (or Saila Dummagan).

Return to your boat to barbecue your fare on deck. Relax with a book or an afternoon siesta. Lift anchor and head for a new anchorage, timing your arrival so that you can enjoy your favorite sundowner. As the dying sun bursts its orange hue into a limitless sky, you will shake your head to make sure it is all real are not something in a dream. As another day in paradise ends, the sky is quickly bejeweled with glittering stars and the night is yours.

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.

The Kuna prohibit foreigners, including Panamanians, from owning land or businesses on their islands. This characteristic does not however extend to their attitude towards travelers or visitors. The Kuna are a naturally warm and openly sociable people who welcome tourists. Their interesting culture is a will fascinate those who visit to enjoy sailing San Blas.




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