 Head of Province: Las Tablas
Population: 83,495 inhabitants (2000 census)
Surface:
Coastal Area: More than 200 kms. on the Pacific Ocean
Major Islands: Isla Iguana (small but important)
Los Santos is the 3rd largest central province of Panama and is located on the Azuero Peninsula. A province that predominantly dedicates itself to agriculture and cattle. It has a lot of colonial history and like many central provinces you will certainly find nice churches on the town square dating back to the colonial and early republican times.
While in Los Santos treat yourself to a hearty breakfast with Queso Prensado (a delicious cheese) and Rosquitas (a crunchy bread shaped like a ring). For lunch and dinner try typical panamanian dishes (Sancocho!). Go to the beach and have some fresh seafood served with "Patacones" (fried plaintain).
 La Villa . The town of La villa is just across the river coming from Chitre. It is the hometown of my father. It is a cozy small town and in particular the town square. There at the kiosko/pharmacy you can try the best "malteada" (a foamy milkshake) on the republic!. Right there at the town square you must visit the Nationality Museum (Museo de La Nacionalidad) set in the former house of Don Nicanor Villalaz an illustrious Panamanian from Los Santos. Here you will see not only a home of early republican times (even from now) and very important documents and artifacts. Do it before it is too late! unfortunately due to the lack of money from the government (and entrance is VERY cheap, some $0.75, it is worth more) they are having trouble to preserve these important documents. I took this picture from the top of the church tower and the tiny figure is my father.
And yes, right there on the town square do not forget to visit this old colonial church (San Atanacio) with its beautiful golden-plated altar, wooden ceilings, etc. If you are religious (even if you are not) attending a church service is nice as well. During Easter (Semana Santa) there is (was?) a play of the cruxifiction of Christ right outside the church.
Guarare and Las Tablas
Isla Iguana is an island 7 kms. off the coast of Pedasi and is now a 56 hectare national park with white sand beaches. It posseses the largest (16 hect.) coral reefs in the Gulf of Panama. You can practice snorkeling and engage in the observation of wildlife. You can cross the island in its narrowest part from El Cirial beach to El Faro beach. To get there you will have to rent a boat that will take you there in about 20 minutes (from the mouth of the Pedasi river). T |
