Sitting off Panama’s northeast Caribbean coast, Guna Yala is a stunning archipelago of 365 palm-fringed islands. An autonomous province since 1924, this intriguing, eco-conscious destination is governed by the indigenous Guna people. A paradise of white sand beaches, thatched houses and turquoise waters, life is refreshingly uncomplicated in Guna Yala. While the locals have embraced outboard motors and mobile phones, they mostly live like their ancestors did. You’ll see men farming coconuts and women – beautifully adorned in traditional dresses, bracelets and beads – selling their colorful appliqué cloth molas. Chill out on the beach, shop for molas and dine on red snapper and coconut rice. Wash it all down with a glass of the local ‘Coco Loco’, a delicious blend of milk and rum served up in a freshly-harvested coconut.
