MUST SEE: KASTOMS IN VANUATU
KASTOMS IN VANUATU
Mount Yasur is a volcano on Tanna Island, Vanuatu, 1,184 ft high above sea level. It has been erupting nearly continuously for several hundred years.ย Although it can usually be approached safely, its eruptions often occur several times an hour.
The glow of the volcano was apparently what attracted Captain James Cook on the first European journey to the island in 1774. Today, the mountain is a sacred area for the John Frum cargo cult. Members of the cult revere John Frum, a deified messenger who foretold the bringing of wealth to the island by American forces, and believe he residesย inย Mount Yasur with his countrymen.
Kastomย is a pidgin word (Bislama/English) used to refer to traditional culture, including religion, economics, art and magic in Melanesia.
The word derives from the Australian English pronunciation of custom. Kastom is mostly not written only passed down through teachings and stories. It is concentrated through:
โข Kastom House - sites where objects and rituals are stored.
โข Kastom stories - myths, legends and communal histories.
โข Kastom tabu - objects of special power, significance and symbolism.
There are designated Kastom villages in Vanuatu which are open to tourists, dedicated to preserving Kastom.
Languages in Vanuatu
Vanuatu boasts 113 distinct languages and innumerable dialects. Out of the three official languages, Bislama is the most spoken in Vanuatu, followed by English, and lastly French. Symbols and items used day to day especially in the outer islands which highlight the kastom way of life:
โขย nakamalย / men's house or meeting ground
โขย nameleย leave /signs for taboo
โขย pigs tusk, red mat / signs of chiefly hood
โขย Nagholย / land Diver first step from child hood to become man
โขย Circomsionย / During the time of circumcise it is taboo to go near the place custom believes
โขย Navenueย leave / someone holding a navenue leave working through into the village on which she or he left long ago the message is to say that he / she belongs to the place / that village
โขย Bambooย leave / when someone gives you a bamboo leave it means you belong to the tribe
โขย Basketย with a bush knife holding in hand / going to the garden
โข A women in a village with a tattoo sign or a broken front tooth /ย the girl is engaged
โขย Tattoosย in the village/ symbol customary origin eg: spider, sharks, turtle, etcโฆ
โข Also a coconut leave or navele palm leaf across a beach /ย taboo sign
โขย Sand Drawing/ passing of messages and stories through kastom art on sand and song
Sailing into the islands of Vanuatu, a yachtsman is immediately struck by the contrast between the modern world and the deeply rooted traditions that define these remote communities. As the anchor drops and the sounds of the sea give way to the distant echo of drums, the realization dawns that this is not just a tropical paradise, but a land where ancient customs, known as "kastoms," are still very much alive.
A Glimpse into Kastom
Kastom is the term used by the Ni-Vanuatu to describe their traditional customs, beliefs, and practices. For the visiting yachtsman, kastom is more than just a cultural curiosity; it is the heartbeat of the islands, influencing every aspect of life from social structures to land ownership and spiritual beliefs.
As you step ashore, you may notice that each village has its own version of kastom, which can vary significantly from island to island. These differences are a reflection of the diverse histories, languages, and environments of Vanuatu's many islands. However, despite these variations, the core principles of respect for elders, communal living, and a deep connection to the land and sea remain constant.
Welcoming Ceremonies and the Role of Chiefs
One of the first encounters with kastom that a yachtsman might experience is the welcoming ceremony. In many villages, visitors are required to participate in a formal greeting ceremony before they can explore the area or engage with the local community. This ceremony is not just a formality; it is an important kastom practice that shows respect for the local chief and the community's traditions.
The chief, or "big man," plays a central role in village life. His authority is derived from kastom, and his decisions are respected by all. As a visitor, it is essential to show deference to the chief, as his approval is crucial for gaining access to the village and its resources. The welcoming ceremony often involves the presentation of a small gift, known as a "sevu-sevu," which is typically a bundle of kava roots or other locally valued items. This gesture symbolizes the visitor's respect for the local culture and their willingness to abide by its rules.
Land and Sea: The Foundations of Kastom
For the Ni-Vanuatu, the land and sea are not just resources to be exploited; they are sacred entities that are deeply intertwined with kastom. Land is communally owned and is passed down through generations according to traditional rules. As a yachtsman, it is important to understand that access to land and certain marine areas may be restricted or require permission from the local chief. Trespassing on these areas without proper authorization can be seen as a serious violation of kastom.
The sea is equally revered, and many kastom practices are centered around the ocean. Traditional fishing methods, such as the use of stone fish traps or communal fishing expeditions, are still practiced in many areas. These methods are not just about catching fish; they are rituals that reinforce community bonds and respect for the ocean's bounty. Yachtsmen who wish to fish or dive in these waters should always seek guidance from the locals to ensure they are not infringing on sacred or restricted areas.
Kastom and Spiritual Beliefs
Kastom is also deeply connected to the spiritual beliefs of the Ni-Vanuatu. Ancestor worship and the belief in spirits, or "tambu," are central to many communities. Sacred sites, known as "nasara," are places where rituals are performed to honor the spirits and maintain harmony with the natural world. These sites are often off-limits to outsiders, and it is important for yachtsmen to respect these boundaries.
In some villages, traditional dances and ceremonies are performed to communicate with the spirits or to mark important events. These performances are not just for entertainment; they are powerful expressions of kastom and are often accompanied by the beating of slit drums and the chanting of ancient songs. As a visitor, witnessing such a ceremony can be a profound experience, but it is important to approach it with the appropriate reverence.
Challenges to Kastom in the Modern World
While kastom remains a vital part of life in Vanuatu, it is not without its challenges. The encroachment of modernity, tourism, and external influences has put pressure on traditional practices. For yachtsmen, it is important to be aware of these dynamics and to approach the islands with sensitivity.
Respecting kastom means more than just following the rules; it involves understanding the context in which these traditions exist and the challenges they face. Engaging with the local community in a respectful and meaningful way can help to support the preservation of kastom and ensure that these ancient practices continue to thrive in the face of change.
Practical Tips for Visiting Yachtsmen
- Seek Permission: Always seek permission from the local chief before venturing into a village or engaging in activities such as fishing or diving. This shows respect for kastom and ensures that you do not inadvertently violate any sacred or restricted areas.
- Participate in Ceremonies: If invited, participate in welcoming ceremonies or other kastom rituals. These experiences can provide valuable insights into the local culture and are a way to show respect for the community.
- Be Mindful of Dress and Behavior: In many villages, modest dress is expected, and certain behaviors, such as public displays of affection, may be frowned upon. Observing these customs shows respect for the local culture.
- Respect Sacred Sites: Avoid entering nasara or other sacred sites without explicit permission. These areas are often of great spiritual significance and should be treated with the utmost respect.
- Support Local Communities: Consider contributing to the local economy by purchasing handmade crafts, hiring local guides, or participating in community-led tours. This not only supports the community but also helps to preserve kastom practices.
Sand Drawings
Sand drawings are one of the most remarkable and visually captivating expressions of Vanuatu's kastom. These intricate designs are created by tracing patterns in the sand with a single continuous line, often using just one finger. The drawings are more than just artistic expressions; they are a form of communication, storytelling, and knowledge transfer. Each design carries specific meanings, representing everything from navigation routes and genealogies to myths, legends, and natural elements.
For visiting yachtsmen, witnessing a sand drawing is like watching a living document come to life. These drawings are often accompanied by explanations or stories told by the artist, who may be an elder or a respected member of the community. The designs themselves are ephemeral, easily erased by the wind or tide, which emphasizes their spiritual and transient nature. This practice serves as a reminder of the importance of oral traditions in preserving knowledge and cultural heritage in Vanuatu.
Water Music
Water music is another unique and enchanting aspect of Vanuatu's kastom. Practiced primarily by the women of the northern islands, particularly on Gaua and Ambae, water music involves creating rhythms and melodies by slapping, scooping, and splashing water with their hands. The women stand waist-deep in water and perform intricate, synchronized movements that produce a variety of sounds, from deep bass notes to high-pitched splashes.
For yachtsmen, witnessing a water music performance is a mesmerizing experience. The music, which often accompanies rituals or celebrations, is deeply connected to the natural environment. The sounds mimic the rhythms of the ocean, the rainfall, and the wind, reflecting the close relationship the Ni-Vanuatu have with their surroundings. Water music is not just entertainment; it is a form of expression that conveys the harmony between the people and the elements of nature.
Rom Dance
The Rom dance is one of the most iconic and powerful kastom ceremonies in Vanuatu, particularly on the island of Ambrym. This dance is performed during important rituals, such as initiations, harvest celebrations, and other significant communal events. The dancers wear elaborate costumes made from banana leaves, masks carved from wood, and headdresses adorned with feathers and shells. The Rom masks are particularly significant, often representing ancestral spirits or deities.
As a visiting yachtsman, witnessing a Rom dance is an unforgettable experience. The dance is a dramatic and solemn affair, with deep, resonant drumbeats setting the rhythm. The dancers move in unison, their steps echoing the ancient traditions that have been passed down through generations. The Rom dance is more than just a performance; it is a spiritual act that connects the dancers and the audience to the ancestors and the natural world. It is a vivid reminder of the living presence of kastom in Vanuatu.
Wood Carving
Wood carving is a highly respected art form in Vanuatu, with each island and community having its own distinctive style and motifs. The carvings often depict ancestral figures, animals, and symbols that are deeply embedded in kastom beliefs. These carvings are not only used in rituals and ceremonies but also serve as everyday objects, such as bowls, canoes, and tools.
For yachtsmen visiting the islands, wood carvings offer a tangible connection to the cultural heritage of the Ni-Vanuatu. Purchasing a carved figure or other wooden object is not just buying a souvenir; it is acquiring a piece of the local culture, imbued with spiritual significance. The carvings often tell stories or represent aspects of the natural world, and they are made with great skill and care, reflecting the deep respect the carvers have for their craft and the traditions they uphold.
Witch Doctors
The role of the witch doctor, or "clever man," is another fascinating aspect of kastom in Vanuatu. Witch doctors are highly respected figures within their communities, possessing knowledge of traditional medicine, spiritual practices, and the ability to communicate with the spirit world. They are often called upon to heal the sick, protect the village from harm, and perform rituals that ensure the community's well-being.
For a yachtsman, encountering a witch doctor can be both intriguing and mysterious. These individuals hold a unique place in Ni-Vanuatu society, blending the roles of healer, spiritual guide, and mediator between the physical and spiritual realms. Witch doctors may use a variety of tools and substances in their practices, including herbs, charms, and talismans. Their knowledge is passed down through generations, and their authority is derived from both their skill and their connection to the ancestral spirits.
While the idea of witch doctors might seem exotic or even eerie to outsiders, it is important for visitors to approach these practices with respect and an open mind. The belief in the power of witch doctors is deeply rooted in kastom and plays a crucial role in maintaining the social and spiritual fabric of the community.
Land Diving (Naghol): The Precursor to Modern Bungee Jumping
Land diving, known locally as "Naghol," is one of Vanuatu's most spectacular and culturally significant traditions. Taking place on Pentecost Island, this ritual is an ancient form of bungee jumping, but without the modern safety equipment. Instead, participants leap from tall wooden towers with only vines tied to their ankles. This incredible tradition is deeply rooted in the kastom of the island and is believed to ensure a good yam harvest, as well as to prove the strength and bravery of the men who participate.
The Significance of Land Diving
For the Ni-Vanuatu people, land diving is more than just a daring feat; it is a sacred ritual with profound cultural and spiritual meaning. The origins of land diving are steeped in legend, with one popular story recounting how a woman named Tamalie escaped from her abusive husband by climbing a tree and tying vines to her ankles before jumping. When her husband followed her and jumped after her, he did not tie the vines properly and fell to his death. The men of the village then began performing the jump themselves to ensure their own safety and to honor the woman's courage.
Today, the land dive is performed annually during the yam harvest season, usually between April and June. The ritual is believed to bless the soil and guarantee a bountiful harvest. It is also a rite of passage for young men, who prove their manhood by participating in the dive. The higher the platform from which a man dives, the greater his bravery is considered.
The Construction of the Tower
The preparation for a land dive is as impressive as the dive itself. A massive tower, sometimes reaching heights of 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet), is constructed using only materials from the surrounding forest. The tower is a masterpiece of traditional engineering, built by the villagers using ropes made from vines and wood lashed together. The platforms from which the men dive are placed at different heights, with the highest reserved for the most experienced and daring divers.
The vines used for the dive are carefully selected based on their elasticity and strength. They must be just the right length to ensure that the diver's head or shoulders lightly brush the ground at the end of the fall, symbolizing the blessing of the earth. The selection of the vines is a critical part of the preparation, as a miscalculation could result in serious injury or death.
The Dive: A Test of Courage
On the day of the land dive, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The divers, clad only in traditional nambas (penis sheaths) and decorated with body paint, climb the rickety tower to their designated platforms. The villagers gather below, singing, dancing, and chanting to encourage the divers and to invoke the spirits for protection.
Each diver stands on the edge of the platform, gripping the vine attached to his ankles. The moment of the dive is a powerful one, filled with tension and ritual significance. With a final breath and a prayer to the ancestors, the diver leaps from the platform, plummeting towards the earth. The crowd erupts in cheers and chants as the diver's fall is arrested by the vines, just as his head or shoulders graze the ground. The diver is then quickly helped up, often dazed but unharmed, to the adulation of the onlookers.
For the diver, completing the land dive is a deeply spiritual experience, reaffirming his connection to the earth, his ancestors, and the community. It is a test of courage, faith, and physical endurance that few outsiders can truly comprehend.
MUST SEE: ๐ง๐ฒ Town of St George and Related Fortifications, Bermuda
MUST SEE: ๐ง๐ฒ Town of St George & Related Fortifications, Bermuda
The Town of St George, once the Capital of Bermuda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.ย In 1609, a British ship, the Sea Venture, was bound for Jamestown, Virginia when they encountered a storm which set them on a reef.ย Following the 1609 shipwreck, the surviving crew built two new ships, Deliveranceย andย Patience, and most continued their voyage to Jamestown, Virginia.ย Supposedly three of the Sea Venture crew were left on the island to mingle with Spanish and Portugese New World explorers who had also 'found' the reef in previous ocean voyages.ย Three years later, in 1612, the English trading company, the Virginia Company, returned and laid claim to the island.ย In 1612, the Town of St. George was founded by the Brits courtesy of the Virginia Company.ย Today, Bermuda is an Overseas Territory of Great Britain and the Town of St. George stands as an prime example of the earliest English urban settlement in the New World.ย According to UNESCO: "Its associated fortifications graphically illustrate the development of English military engineering from the 17th to the 20th century, being adapted to take account of the development of artillery over this period."ย After the American Revolution Great Britain made St. George its main New World Naval Base.ย Their military fortifications have been reconstructed and strengthened over and over again over the last four centuries.
The architecture in Town is unique and has changed little since the 17th century so it appears frozen in time.ย Bermuda is fringed by coral reefs and sits in the North Atlantic so the buildings in St. George are generally less than two stories and constructed to withstand hurricanes.ย They are white-washed soft limestone that are designed with gentle pitched roofs and gutters to collect water in cisterns as water sources are scarce on the island.ย 40% of the structures in Town were built before 1800 lending the Town a very historic feel.
FUN FACTS: In 1806 the Town of Hamilton was named the new capital of Bermuda.
This is when St. George was no longer the capital and some say time stopped in St George.
Goslings Black Seal Rum has been distilled on the other end of the island in Hamilton since 1806.
Marquesas named UNESCO World Heritage Site
Marquesas named
UNESCO World Heritage Site
According to the World Heritage Convention, The Marquesan Islands were recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its "exceptional testimony to the territorial occupation of the Marquesas archipelago by a human civilization that arrived by sea around the year 1000 CE and developed on these isolated islands between the 10th and the 19th centuries. It is also a hotspot of biodiversity that combines irreplaceable and exceptionally well conserved marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Marked by sharp ridges, impressive peaks and cliffs rising abruptly above the ocean, the landscapes of the archipelago are unparalleled in these tropical latitudes. The archipelago is a major centre of endemism, home to rare and diverse flora, a diversity of emblematic marine species, and one of the most diverse seabird assemblages in the South Pacific. Virtually free from human exploitation, Marquesan waters are among the worldโs last marine wilderness areas. The property also includes archaeological sites ranging from monumental dry-stone structures to lithic sculptures and engravings." https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1707
The ancient Marquesan anthropomorphic sculptures or tiki have received wide attention since they were first noted in 1595.ย Oral stories of their significance are difficult to come by as many have been lost.ย The Marquesan language has been all but lost to French in the islands although, presently there are many people trying to study it, use it, and keep it alive.ย Beginning in 1980's, there have been academic efforts to trace the history of Marquesan language, spirituality, and stone structures. Stylistically the Marquesan stone tiki followed certain social rules with similar characteristics to tattoos and material objects.
MUST SEE: LEVUKA, FIJI
MUST SEE: LEVUKA, FIJIย 
THE ORIGINAL GUNKHOLES OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC
Levuka is a town on the eastern coast of the Fijian Island of Ovalau.ย Up until 1877, it was the capital of Fiji.ย Currently, this strangely haunted town has a population of about 5,000.ย It is the economic hub of the largest of 24 settlements on the Island.ย Levuka was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2013, in recognition of the port town's exceptional testimony to the late colonial port towns in the Pacific Ocean.
The modern town of Levuka was founded around 1820 by European settlers and traders as the first modern town in the Fiji Islands.ย Levuka quickly became an important port and trading post in the Pacific.ย A disparate band of settlers made up Levuka's population- traders, missionaries, shipwrights, speculators, vagabonds, and even respectable businessmen.ย Much of Levukaโs unique heritage is in its wooden architecture (highly vulnerable to fire).
The South Pacific's first Masonic Lodge was built in 1913 and housed the Freemasons that were established in Levuka by Alexander Barrack in 1875.ย There is much controversy about the Masonic fraternity in Fiji.ย The dominant traditional Christian faiths consider the Masons to be devil-worshippers.ย ย The Masonic Lodge was burned down in the 2000 Fiji coup d'etat.ย The Lodge contained priceless historical artifacts and records of Levuka's history dating back to 1875.ย The arsonists have yet to be identified and prosecuted.
MUST SEE: LAUREL FOREST IN SAO VICENTE, MADEIRA ๐ต๐น PORTUGAL
MUST SEE: LAUREL FOREST IN SAO VICENTE,
MADEIRA ๐ต๐น PORTUGAL
Portugal's Madeira Island is an island in the Atlantic off the coast of Africa.ย Madeira itself is a sight to behold.ย The volcanic island erupted in the Ocean during the Miocene Epoch about twenty million years ago.ย After the lava cooled and erosion shaped the island.
The highest point on the island stands at 1,862 metres (6,109 feet) and the distance to Madeiraโs submerged base at the bottom of the Atlantic is just over 6,000 metres (about 20,000 feet).
The spectacular landscape of the Laurisilva Forest is a strongly scented, integral part of Madeiraย Island's landscape.ย Its lush vegetation hides the fascinating indigenous laurel forest, recognized by UNESCO in 1999 as Natural Heritage of Humanity. The Laurisilva of Madeira is an outstanding relic of a previously widespread laurel forest type.ย Historians believe that forty million years ago up until the last Ice Age there were great swaths of Laurisilva forest covering much of southern Europe.ย However, today this ecosystem is mostly confined to the three Atlantic archipelagos of Madeira, Azores, and the Canaries.
The Laurisilva Forest of Madeira is the largest surviving area of laurel forest and is believed to be 90% primary forest meaning the trees in this forest have never been cut down.ย This forest area dates back to the dinosaurs and has somehow survived almost six hundred years of human habitation. The forest contains a unique suite of plants and animals, including many endemic species such as the Madeiran long-toed pigeon. Madeira is โฆ World Heritage
The Laurisilva Forest is not only a UNESCO site preserved for it's unique beauty and as an example of primary forest; this forest is also it is a precious mass of fertile forest that plays an increasingly important role in maintaining the islandโs hydrological balance and biological diversity.
The Laurisilva Forest of Madeira has long played and important role to the islanders.ย Much of the forest is criss-crossed by a network of irrigation channels known as Ievadas which carry water from the fertile north to the more arid regions on the south side of the island.
Laboriously cut from the sturdy mountain rock to transport water to the islandโs plantations and hydro-electric power stations, the levadas date right back to the islandโs very first settlers in the early 15thย century.
Today, the the levadas still play an essential role in the cultivation of a variety of crops, including bananas, grapes (used for making Madeira wine), sugar cane and passion fruit, that grow in abundance all over the island.
Interested in learning more of the history of this special place, click this link:
https://viajealpatrimonio.com/listing/laurisilva-de-madeira/
MUST SEE: SAMOA ๐ผ๐ธ APIA
SAMOA ๐ผ๐ธ APIA
Xunantunich ๐ง๐ฟ BELIZE | Must See along the Panama Posse Route
Xunantunich ๐ง๐ฟ BELIZE | Must See
Journeying through the Mysteries of Xunantunich: AN Explorer's Tale
In the heart of Belize's lush jungle, where the air is thick with the scent of ancient mysteries, lies Xunantunich โ a Mayan marvel cloaked in history and legend. As an explorer venturing into the depths of Central America, we find ourselves irresistibly drawn to this enigmatic site, eager to uncover its secrets and experience the whispers of a giant past
Across the hand cranked river ferry and Into the Jungle
We trekked through the sunstrewn foliage of the Cayo District, guidedย by Gilberto and the promise of adventure and the distant echoes of ancient civilizations. The path to Xunantunich wound through ย towering trees, each step bringing us closer to the heart of Maya territory.
The Encounter with the Woman in White
Xunantunich was reportedly haunted by the spirit of a woman cloaked in white, who roamed the ruins at night, guarding its sacred secrets. Though skeptics dismissed her as a mere legend, we couldn't shake the feeling that all was being watched.
ย The Ascend of El Castillo
We began the ascent of El Castillo in the mid morning heat, our footsteps echoing against the weathered stone. Each terrace brought us closer to the summit, where panoramic views of the flora stretched out before us like a vast tapestry of history.
From this vantage point, we marveled at the intricate carvings that adorned the pyramid's facade โ scenes of gods and warriors frozen in time, their stories etched into the very fabric of the stone. Amidst the ruins of a once-thriving civilization, we felt a profound sense of connection to the ancient Maya and their enduring legacy.
The Hieroglyphic Stairway
Adjacent to El Castillo stood Structure A-6, its Hieroglyphic Stairway a testament to the Maya's mastery of language and symbolism. Each glyph seemed to whisper secrets of dynasties long past, offering tantalizing glimpses into the rituals and beliefs that shaped their world.
Reflections on Cultural Significance
Beyond the allure of ancient mysteries, Xunantunich held profound cultural significance for the modern-day Maya and the people of Belize. It was a living link to their shared heritage, a reminder of the resilience and ingenuity of those who had come before us.
Xunantunich was more than just a relic of the past โ it was a testament to the enduring power of exploration, discovery, and preservation. Belize is a guardian of this sacred heritage, it is a responsibility to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience the wonders of the ancient Maya for themselves, to walk in the footsteps of those who came before and to forge their own connections
We vow to carry the spirit of Xunantunich with me wherever our travels may lead, knowing that the mysteries of the Maya would always beckon, waiting to be explored by those whoย seek them out.
Museo Nacional de Antropologรญa Mexico City
Museo Nacional de Antropologรญa ๐ฒ๐ฝย National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City
Cultural Richness
- Diverse Collection: The museum showcases the vast and rich cultural heritage of Mexico's pre-Columbian civilizations, offering insights into the complex societies that flourished in this region.
- Exploring Ancestral Connections: Many of the civilizations represented in the museum, like the Maya and Aztecs, have historical and cultural links to various sites along the Panama Posse route.
Broad horizons & unique sxperiences
- Ancient Civilizations: Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the ancient cultures they will encounter or learn about during their journey.
- Artifacts and Exhibits: The museum is home to some of the most significant archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian heritage, including the Stone of the Sun (often referred to as the Aztec calendar stone) and the Aztec Xochipilli statue.
Correlation with Panama Posse Route
Heritage Sites
- Many sites along the Panama Posse route, like those in Central America, are key to understanding the broader history and culture of the region, much of which is represented in the museum.
Enhanced ADVENTURE
- Maritime Adventure Meets Historical Discovery: The journey offers a unique blend of sailing adventure and cultural exploration. Visiting the museum can provide a historical context that enriches the overall experience.
- World Heritage Sites: The route includes numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which share a thematic connection with the museum's focus on preserving and celebrating the world's cultural heritage.
WHY VISIT ?
- Explore the roots of civilizations: "Discover the roots of the ancient civilizations you'll encounter along your journey at the National Museum of Anthropology."
- Mexico's Cultural Tapestry: "Weave the rich cultural tapestry of Mexico into your maritime adventure by starting with the National Museum of Anthropology."
GALLERY OF IMAGES
99 reasons for joining the PANAMA POSSE 23ยท24
ย 99 reasons for joining the PANAMA POSSE 23ยท24
#99
make good & new friends
#98
catch great fish
#97
discover new shores
#96
unabashedly pet friendly
#95
with 550+ amazing anchorages
#94
welcome ships of all sizes and pedigrees
#93
Impromptu Panama Posse parties
#92
Organic docks and sustainable surroundings
#91
Stunningly beautiful volcanic coastlines
#90
Witness Mobula rays jumping & shattering
#89
Get accurate and vettedโinfo
#88
Watch water turn to glass
#87
Anchor 
between both ends of the rainbow
#86
Swim like a sloth
#85
Dinghy to a secluded beach – bring dog and umbrella
#84
start your mornings with delightful sunrises
#83
snuggle up with primates
#82
Pull into welcoming marinas
#81
Don’t kiss a red frog
#80
Learn how to fly
#79
Not all fashion happens in Paris
#78
Practice your dolphin talk
#77
Discover extreme serenity
#76
Claim a remarkable & uncrowded pier
#75
Learn to surf in Nicaragua
#74
Play survivor from your dinghy
#73
Clean up the environment with your anchor
#72
Sail into the Archipiรฉlago de San Blas
#71
Compare the amenities at 75+ marinas
#70
Hear Howler Monkeys roar from your anchorage
#69
Light a cigar … in CUBA
#68
Feel the love at booth VB10ย in Annapolis
#67
Taste wood fired steaks in Barra
#66
Taste Tequila IN Tequila
#65
Learn how to “dive right in”
#64
Become a banana expert
#63
ponder life with palms trees
#62
get into tight spots well informed
#61
Trick or treat in 80 degrees
#60
MAKE FRIENDS WITHย A YELLOW FROG FISH
#59
FIND YOUR INNER CHILDHOOD
#58
PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ IN ACAPULCO
#57
Discover the 7 types of mole
#56
Get up close with swimming dragons
#55
Add “Panama Canal linehandler” to your bucket list
#54
Anchor where historic naval battles were fought
#53
Discover Monkey Island
#52
Explore arched caves where times stands still
#51
Participate in new rituals
#49
“Get flipped off by a whale
#48
Celebrate your achievements with fellow seafarers
#47
Jump back in time – like 1,500 years
#46
find your dog โฆ chillin’ in the sand, in the bar, by the beach
#45
Anchor up river … in the jungle
#44
professional haulouts in the tropics with big savings
#43
celebrate life with the day of the dead
#42
#42 discover sprawling underground cave systems
#41
Celebrate your holidays in the tropics
#40
Provision like a pro !
#39
Learn to really read the water
#38
Ride horses on the beach
#37
Anchor in Carrizal
#36
Slide down a volcano at full sped
#35
taste good 7 year old rum & really really good 12 year old rum
#34
7 moles for 7 seas
#33
provision up
#32
#31
#30
#29
#28
#27
#panama_posse
https://panamaposse.com/sign-up
BOQUETE ๐ต๐ฆ PANAMA
Boquete, often referred to as a "coffee mountain paradise," is a picturesque town located in the highlands of Panama. It is renowned for its ideal climate, fertile volcanic soil, and lush surroundings, which make it an excellent region for coffee cultivation. The town is nestled in the beautiful Boquete Valley, surrounded by verdant mountains, waterfalls, and abundant flora.
In terms of being "set back in the time of happiness," one could interpret this phrase as Boquete's ability to evoke a sense of tranquility, simplicity, and contentment. The town has a slower pace of life compared to bustling urban areas, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature's beauty and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. This, combined with the charm of the local community, creates a feeling of happiness and serenity.
Boquete's coffee industry, along with its rustic charm and natural landscapes, contributes to its reputation as a paradise. Coffee plantations dot the mountainsides, offering visitors the opportunity to explore and experience the coffee-making process firsthand. The region's coffee farms often feature picturesque vistas, where one can witness the traditional methods of harvesting and processing coffee cherries.
Overall, Boquete can be described as a tranquil and idyllic place, where the natural beauty of the coffee mountains and the warmth of its people create a sense of happiness and nostalgia for a simpler time.