What Not to Do in the San Blas Islands
Coming to San Blas for non-stop partying, hard drinking and assuming that the San Blas islands are like the BVI’s, USVI’s or any of the other typical sailing locations in the Caribbean is a misunderstanding of what the archipelago has to offer.
Exposing the truth not told about the San Blas islands not only benefits our future guests and us, it also does a great favor to the Guna indigenous and their communities by bringing in the right type of conscious traveler that the region aims for.
In older posts we discussed for example what islands not to visit in the San Blas, now we dive deeper into what the islands have to offer and what not to expect from your Panama sailing holiday.
We receive enquiries from all over the world on a daily basis, while some of these requests mention their intention to, for example, meet the local indigenous, visit the cays and make sure they get to snorkel in the right places, others mention directly of how much alcohol is included and how to provision more if they run out.
Do your research on what is there to do in the San Blas region before attempting to come. It will save you a lot of trouble. These islands are not for example what the big cruise line client aims for, there are great differences in the personalization, comfort of the trip and most importantly the quality of the experience and the memories you will take back.
The Guna Yala Region is definitely not a tourist trap. Believe us on that one. A tourist trap by definition is a place where locals would not attempt to go. Guna indigenous have lived in the islands for centuries, they love their land and they constantly care for it.
It goes without saying that we do not operate as a booze cruise, and the Guna Yala region, along with its humble residents in the local communities and pristine environment, do not need the disturbance and negative impacts that come with excessive partying in inappropriate locations. Having some wine, enjoying a couple of beers and having clean fun is not only permitted but absolutely recommended and included in the price of our catamaran sailing charters. Over drinking, not showing respect to the local indigenous and their ways and not having physical coordination is not tolerated on board.
Apart from heavy drinking and partying, this is the list of the top 10 things not to do in the San Blas islands:
No clubbing...
Bring stress in and not letting it dissipate
Concern too much about exact timings and schedules
Being paranoid. Is San Blas safe
Rush from island to island: "less is more"
Get sunburn, walking fast on deck and other acts that might harm you physically
Disrespect the locals, any in your group and crew
Expect major comfort precisely at all times
Waste your time staring at your phone
Dress inappropriately "less is more... :)"
Visiting the San Blas Islands offers a unique opportunity to experience the untouched beauty and rich culture of the Guna Yala region. By respecting local customs, preserving the environment, and being mindful of the community’s way of life, you can help maintain this paradise for future generations.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
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