Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Exploring Portobelo's past
Nowadays, Portobelo is a quiet place left to locals and sailors. Cruisers starved for cash
and supplies after an extended San Blas sojourn can re-enter civilization here (with all its
pluses and minuses), replenishing cash from the ATM and buying basic supplies in several
Chinese-run “mini supers.” Our favorite stops were the local bakery for delicious bread,
sweet rolls, and fresh fruit smoothies; the Argentinean restaurant with its second-floor bal-
cony seating; and Captain Jack's, a friendly cruiser hang-out that offers drinks, meals, and
Internet access - in addition to hosting one heck of a Christmas party. Visitors can explore
many historic sites around town, from the bayside Fort San Jeronimo to the church of San
Felipe and the graceful, oft-overlooked Merced Bridge, dating back to 1597. History buffs
will appreciate the informative panels erected around town, though like the crumbling
buildings, these, too, have seen better days.
It's true that some visitors come away jaded, seeing only the litter and decay that tarnishes
Portobelo's surface. However, those who scratch deeper will find an intriguing port
steeped in history together with a commodious, well protected bay. In the wider scope of
things, Portobelo makes the perfect counterpoint to the palm-fringed San Blas Islands and
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