Sunday, January 30, 2011

Cruise through memory lane of San Blas Island

In March of 2000 I went on a family cruise to South America. I had an awesome time while exploring each new port and completely thrilled knowing the next morning I would be able to start exploring all over again. Our stops included Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama, and San Blas Island. I loved each country for several different reasons, however San Blas island left fond everlasting memories.


It was such a unique experience while visiting the island. We first had to take a launch boat to a small pier because the cruise ship was not able to dock at the pier due its large size. Upon disembarking the cruise I was excited, I had my camera with me and was ready for whatever the island had to offer. I was amazed at what I saw. The Kuna Indians were dressed in their cultural attire and looked beautiful. There were tables scattered everywhere of items for sale including but not limited to handmade arts and crafts, T-shirts, and beaded jewelry. One older lady told me I may take a picture of her but I needed to pay $1, I paid my dues and froze a moment of her everyday life with my camera. I continued exploring the tourist area of this tiny sized island and returned to the cruise ship about 2 hours later.


At the time I was much younger than I am today. I hope to return one day and do more than I did back in 2000. I’ve done further research and saw that the San Blas islands have so much to offer. There are over 365 islands with the option to snorkel around them all, however diving is not permitted. You are also allowed to explore their villages, and jungles. As one would expect the infrastructure doesn’t resemble that of a developed country. There aren’t many hotels and of the hotels that are there it’s pretty basic, but no cable TV and the hotel usually just provides food. I’d love to see as many of the islands as I possibly can if I were ever to return.


There isn’t much nightlife here this would be an ideal vacation for families who are simply looking for a gorgeous hideaway from their everyday lives. I like to think of the San Blas islands as a place that was hand crafted for the perfect relaxation getaway. As usual I’m closing off my post with pictures of the hidden beauty of South America.





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