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What is the proper attire for the islands?
The following is to be taken into account due to climate (100degrees + and high humidity) and culture. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best. Men can wear pants or long shorts. Ladies can wear pants, capris, or long shorts (no spandex or tight fitting) during the day but will need to wear skirts during the evening services. No spaghetti straps or anything else that would allow undergarments to show.

Should we take snacks?
Yes, Absolutely!  While on the islands we will be eating what they feed us.  Don't get scared by this.  In most cases it is quite normal food such as rice, beans, chicken or fish.  We do however recommend that you bring a good stash of your favorite snacks as there might be a meal that is not as palatable to you and as we are always at the risk of having a food shortage.  However, you will have a 25lb. baggage limit. (Including clothing, toiletries and snacks). Water is provided and there are little stores to purchase drinks and limited snacks.

Where will we sleep?
In most cases we will lodge in either a village hut or concrete building.  In ether case we would expect these to be very simple structures and while they tend to be clean this will not be a stay at the Marriot.   In most cases we also sleep in hammocks unless this is not feasible for the person (Hammocks will hold up to 300 Lbs). The nights do get slightly cool and you may want a lightwieght blanket or sheet for cover.

What about hygiene?
Most Kuna villages have no running water.  They use out houses that are built at the end of piers for restrooms and showers are taken with buckets from collected rain or river water.  In most cases it will be no problem to take a bath each day.  It is highly recommended that you have and use hand sanitizer throughout the day.

Can we/should we drink the water?
No,  it is not safe for an outsider to drink the local water as it will not have been purified and may contain Parasites, Bacteria and Amoebas. We will provide each team with an adequate supply of bottled water for both consumption and for cooking.

How will we spend our day?
A good part of the day will be spent working in the morning VBS, afternoon teen program and evening wide service.  Rest assured, you will be busy and will work hard but there will be free time where you can mingle with the locals and team members as you get to know your island or village.

Are there creepy crawlies?
When it comes to the islands there are not many insects or animals.  You will encounter mostly ants and lizards.  There are also occasional rodent sightings.

How much does the trip cost?
$600 plus airfare from your location and extra spending money for snacks, souvenirs, Panama canal tour ($5-$9), 1 or 2 meals while in Panama.
(The $600 covers 2-3 nights in Panama City, transportation to and from the islands, food, lodging and ministry on the islands)

 What language to they speak in Panama/Kuna Yala?
In Panama City, the language is Spanish.  In Kuna Yala they speak both Spanish and Kuna - an indigenous dialect that does not resemble Spanish in any way.  Some communities only speak Kuna and translators are used in order to converse with the locals.

Do I need to know Spanish to go on the trip?
No.  All you need is a smile and open heart.  The smile is an international language that breaks through cultural barriers.  Come ready to be used as a jungle gym as the children of the communities love to hang all over the members of our teams.  Be ready to never be alone with one, two or twenty children hanging all over you.

How will we get to the islands?
By small plain and canoe.

Will we do anything touristy while in Panama?
There will be an opportunity to visit the Panama Canal while in Panama City.  There is a bit of souvenir shopping as well.  On the islands, occasionally, the local Pastor will treat a visiting team to a tropical excursion.  While this does not always happen, it is possible.

Since we will be visiting islands, can we swim off the island?
This is not recommended.  As mentioned in another question, the out houses are built on piers that hang over the surrounding water of the island.  There may, however, be an opportunity to swim at a local beach or deserted island.
 
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