LOS Perspective

We embarked on this approximately 4 hour long journey to the island early in the morning from our hotel. We used the tour company San Blas Dreams for both this tour and another one we booked while in Panama (I have not been paid or received compensation with this company).

The trip was via a 4×4 down an hours long road that was full of potholes. We were told the road has been like this for years but is scheduled to be repaired soon. Once we arrived at the end we were then picked up by a boat and the ride was about 40 minutes to Ina Island. I selected this one in particular since the island would also include us getting to island hop for the day at a few other islands before returning for the night to sleep in a hut. While there I have to say we saw many people doing just a day trip to the islands but knowing the long amount of time it would take to get to San Blas and back, and with kids and grandparents, it really just made sense to stay overnight at least for us.

While on the island were able to experience some local Kuna food (the Kuna are the indigenous people of the Guna tribe), embrace the lack of wifi and technology, and live out every moment on the screensavers I pick for my work computer. We participated in a tour to visit some other islands all of which were equally beautiful. There was one that was so small in size with the tiniest sliver of land that you would walk down the strip and have water washing upon it from both directions. It was heavenly to feel like you are out in the middle of the ocean yet safe on this small island.

While away I was a little nervous taking such young children and Raul’s parents however, everyone enjoyed it and I have to say we all needed the break and with little to focus on but the views, it was a much needed break from work and the everyday.

A few tips if you do this trip- pack lightly. We put all of our stuff in a small carry on suitcase since it was for the three kids and us and that worked but if you are traveling solo or just a couple, an overnight duffle is best. Don’t forget bug spray, sunscreen, toiletries, a towel, a flashlight or small collapsible lantern for night time, a card game or some activity to do at night after the sun goes down with kids/friends, and if you have young kids don’t forget to bring baby wipes and some of the small diaper/pull up plastic bags. The island is very rustic and minimal….but so worth it and so hard to leave.