Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
this custom is dying out in larger towns and cities, the tradition continues to thrive
in some of the more traditional areas of in the peninsula.
TOP OF CHAPTER
La Enea
This small village northeast of Guararé produces the finest
polleras
in Panama. Once the
daily attire of Spain's lower classes in the 17th and 18th centuries, the
pollera
is today
the national costume, distinguished by its stirring beauty and elegance. It is almost en-
tirely handmade, from the attractive embroidery on the blouse and skirt to the delicate
filigree ornaments tucked around the gold combs in the hair. The traditional assortment
of jewelry worn with a
pollera
can cost upwards of US$20,000.
By convention, the
pollera
consists of two basic pieces: a blouse that rests upon the
shoulder tops and a long skirt divided into two fully gathered tiers. Each dress requires
no less than 10m of fine white linen or cotton cloth. Elaborate needlework in a single
color brings contrast to the white background.
Located halfway between Guararé and La Enea,
Señora Dilsa Vergara de Saavedra
(
994-5221, cell 6529-0445.)
is a
pollera
maker and judge known to many queens and for
many contests. She's known for giving interesting presentations and offers a nice selec-
tion of items to show.
If you're interested in purchasing a
pollera,
be advised that every dress is made to or-
der.
To reach La Enea, take a taxi (US$3) from Guararé.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Las Tablas
POP 10,400
Las Tablas is ground zero for the street dancing, booze-soaked celebrations and all-out
mayhem associated with the festivals of the Península de Azuero. Home to the country's
most famous Carnaval, Las Tablas is the best place in Panama to let go of your inhibi-
tions, sample some
seco
and seriously cut loose.
As the capital city of Los Santos Province, Las Tablas has a fine church and a small
museum devoted to former Las Tablas statesman and three-time president Belisario Por-
