Panama, a country steeped in history, had always captivated me. From the Spanish arrival to the ambitious yet challenging construction of the Panama Canal, and the subsequent influence of the United States, its story was rich and multifaceted. Having studied its past, I was eager to witness firsthand how these historical layers shaped modern Panama. Knowing my parents would be easily persuaded by a warm escape from a Minnesota winter, I reached out, and soon enough, a meticulously planned week-long itinerary by Dianna Upton of Travel Beyond, a former Panama City resident, landed in my inbox. Despite my historical background, the northern Caribbean coast of Panama held surprises, revealing an experience and culture profoundly different from my expectations, offering a unique facet of Caribbean Sea Travel.
The first revelation was Panama’s remarkable narrowness. Though aware of its size, the swiftness of our journey from Panama City on the Pacific side to Portobelo on the Caribbean Sea was striking. Less than two hours was all it took, a quick reminder of the country’s accessible geography, making Caribbean sea travel within Panama incredibly convenient.
Colorful buildings of El Otro Lado hotel in Portobelo, Panama
Arriving in the quaint seaside town of Portobelo, a distinct cultural atmosphere immediately enveloped us. Panama City, influenced by the Canal, felt like a blend of Latin and Western cultures. Here, however, the dominant influence was unequivocally Afro-Caribbean, also known as Congo culture. Our hotel, El Otro Lado, perfectly embodied this vibrant spirit. Its walls pulsed with bright colors, adorned with African-inspired artwork – masks, photographs, many depicting local families descended from enslaved Africans. This immersion offered an immediate and tangible connection to the heart of Caribbean sea travel‘s diverse cultural tapestry.
Guests enjoying boating near El Otro Lado hotel, Portobelo, Panama, showcasing Caribbean Sea activities
The activities available catered to both relaxation and cultural exploration. Standard Caribbean sea travel pleasures like paddle boarding, snorkeling, boating, nature walks, and hammock lounging were readily available, offering rejuvenation and tranquility. Yet, El Otro Lado went further, providing classes and historical tours that illuminated the multifaceted aspects of Congo culture, enriching the Caribbean sea travel experience beyond typical beach getaways.
A Congo culture drumming session at El Otro Lado hotel in Portobelo, Panama, part of a unique Caribbean travel experience
One evening, my parents and I participated in a drumming session at the hotel. Little Victor, our engaging instructor, presented us with colorful box drums that doubled as seats. Coming from a musical family, he skillfully taught us two fundamental Congo rhythms, demonstrating how to strike different parts of the drum to create varied sounds. Despite our beginner status, we quickly grasped the beat, feeling the infectious Caribbean rhythm resonate within us. This hands-on experience provided a joyful entry point into the musical heart of Congo culture within our Caribbean sea travel journey.
Mama Ari in traditional Congo skirt leading a cultural tour in Portobelo, Panama
The following day, we embarked on a Portobelo tour, guided by the captivating Mama Ari, which deepened our understanding of Congo culture. Mama Ari commenced the morning with a traditional song, an invitation to share her culture and a blessing of gratitude. As she sang, she danced, her vibrant patchwork skirt swirling with her movements. Holding the colorful fabric aloft, Mama Ari explained that these skirts symbolized wings, representing the freedom embodied in Congo dance. Unbound by strict rules, every woman could express herself through music and movement in her own way. Mama Ari’s tour became a powerful immersion into the soul of Congo culture, a highlight of our Caribbean sea travel.
Children learning music at a Congo culture school in Portobelo, Panama, showcasing cultural preservation in Caribbean travel
Our exploration continued into the town center, where we encountered numerous music and dance schools. These institutions offered free enrollment to children, ensuring the preservation and mastery of Congo cultural traditions. Vibrant artwork adorned the school walls, radiating the same Caribbean energy that infused the daily instruction. We paused at a mural depicting a Pajarito, or little bird. This image represented a messenger during Spanish colonial times, who used bird-like whistles to alert enslaved people when it was safe to gather. The sound, dismissed as mere birdsong by the Spanish, facilitated secret communication. The elaborate headdress and makeup in the mural hinted at the vibrant Carnaval celebrations, a significant annual event in this Panamanian region, adding another layer to the rich tapestry of Caribbean sea travel experiences.
Mural of Pajarito, a symbol of resistance and communication in Congo culture, Portobelo, Panama
We even encountered two Carnaval performers in full costume, face paint and all, playfully interacting with locals as they passed. Further enriching our historical understanding, we visited two of Portobelo’s forts. Mama Ari recounted tales of Spanish attempts to defend against pirates, including the infamous Sir Francis Drake, who is buried in the bay. Each stop and every story shared by Mama Ari deepened our appreciation for Panama’s northern coast, sparking our curiosity and expanding our understanding of this unique corner of the Caribbean sea travel landscape.
Fort in Portobelo, Panama, a historical site along the Caribbean coast
While my entire Panamanian adventure was memorable, our time in Portobelo, immersed in Congo culture, remains a standout highlight. The three days offered a perfect blend of beach relaxation and cultural immersion, learning and leisure. This region, with its distinct cultural influences and accessibility, is a true gem for travelers. Whether as a day trip from Panama City or an extended exploration, Portobelo is an essential destination for anyone seeking an enriching and unexpected Caribbean sea travel experience.
