San Blas Islands

Our main motive for visiting Panama was the San Blas Archipelago on the Atlantic coast. This archipelago of 400 white-sand islands full of tropical birds and bathed in the Caribbean sun is part of an autonomous region run by the Kuna tribe. I know it sounds like paradise, but the best part is that it IS paradise!

The Kuna are very protective of their cultural identity and autonomy to they don't allow "foreigners" to own property or build on their lands. This, in turn, eliminates two of the things I dislike most about the Caribbean: luxury mega-resorts and mass-tourism. Visiting the Kuna and learning about their rich culture is worth the trip by itself. Their religion and customs are very interesting, especially the dress of the Kuna women.

This picture was taken in Kuna Yala in the San Blas Islands when a storm came and kunas (or: Indians) came to see it. Kuna yala, or better known as San Blas, is a magical place that's full of life and beauty, and has 365 islands in the same area, making it a quiet place with no big waves. It's good for snorkeling and taking very good pictures.

Anyone who thinks that Panama is only rainforest and a channel are very wrong because there are many other hidden paradises hidden in the San Blas Archipelago which will not cost much. In Panama you can stay one of the islands living with a Kuna family which will become an unforgettable experience.

This is my favorite beach...miss it so much!