Travel Back in Time to the San Blas Islands : Online Shopping Guide
Travel Back in Time to the San Blas Islands
For the discerning eco-traveler, there aren’t many ‘untouched’ destinations left that don’t require anything short of a challenging journey off the beaten path to reach. It seems to fair to say that most of the unspoiled destinations left on the planet require a bit of determination to visit. There are exceptions to this rule and the San Blas Islands off the coast of Panama are certainly one exception.
A quick 25 minute plane ride from the mainland (Panama City) lies an chain of almost 400 hundred islands that seem to belong to another time. As a traveler, a side trip to this chain of islands probably feels no different than a trip back in time. Perhaps a trip back to a time when tribal living was commonplace and modern amenities weren’t needed or even desired. Despite the close proximity of these islands to the mainland and the sheer number of tourists who pay them homage, the Kuna Indians of the San Blas Islands have maintained much of their ‘simple’ ways of living and culture.
What makes a trip to the San Blas Islands so appealing is the opportunity to experience the laid back and simple way of living, even if for only a few days. Prepare yourself for a journey back in time when life seemed simple, quiet and orderly. Live like the Kuna, if for only a short time. You’ll realize that it’s by no accident that this island chain is starkly different from the mainland as the Kuna have worked hard to maintain their way of life.
Activities
Snorkeling is a popular activity in the San Blas Islands which are surrounded by some of the oldest reefs in the world. Diving on the other hand, is not permitted. For the adventure-minded, exploring the uninhabited islands of this chain can be the perfect way to spend an afternoon, day or several days. Of the 378 islands that comprise the San Blas Islands, only 49 are inhabited which leaves a little room for getting away from the other tourists. And for those who only seek to relax, the perfect afternoon may be spent in a hammock with the sound of gently breaking waves in the background.
Traveling to the San Blas Islands
* The easiest way to get to the San Blas Islands is by plane from Panama City. Flights are frequent.
* Boat travel to the islands is possible, although required a bit more planning
* Accommodations are pretty basic for the most part. Luxury accommodations are also available.
* Hot water is considered a luxury and is hard to find on the island.
Travel Back in Time to the San Blas Islands / Author: Enid Glasgow
