I was somewhat surprised to find in an upscale store in Minneapolis, what looked like a mola. I checked it out, and sure enough, it was of genuine Kuna design. The type sold to tourists. It had never been worn. It was not faded. And there was no stitching–a sure sign if the mola had been a part of a female Kuna’s daily attire. But even more surprising was the price. Eighty—yes—EIGHTY DOLLARS.
Wow. The Kuna Yala have come a long way.
You’ll see different types of molas around Panama City. The value is based on the design, the number of layers used, and if the mola has actually been worn. For authentic molas, visit the Kuna. They have their own nation or comarca, located primarily on hundreds of small islands known as the San Blas along Panama’s Caribbean coast.
Panama is truly the crossroads of the world, and it’s hard to control the impulse to buy the first thing you see. For hand-made Panamanian crafts, I suggest checking out the shops at the ruins of Panamá Viejo, Old Panama. You’ll find cups and bowls with intricate designs.
And then… make your way to The Casco Viejo. You’ll find paintings from local artists.
As you travel, you’ll find numerous stands along the road that offer a variety of unique items that can be easily wrapped and packed.
El Valle, a two hour drive from Panama City, is not only a wonderful place to visit, but they also have exquisite items to view, and barter.
A few years ago, my daughters bought a gift for me in the states. A ship on a stand that rocks back and forth when touched.
Later, all of us were at Isla Taboga for the weekend, and we sat down for breakfast at Hotel Tropical. While waiting for our meal, I gazed around the room, and out the window. I was happy—so very happy, and privileged to be back. And then…I saw it. On an obscure shelf in a corner.
It was the ship. The Rocking Ship. A twin of the one my daughters had given me. I had a rare, very content feeling, and for the moment, all was right….
One of the treasures you’ll find in abundance along Panama’s coasts is free. It’s the shells. They’re everywhere, and in every shape. Pick up a few. Wash off the sand in whichever ocean you are on, and remember your trip to the Isthmus of Panamá.
Comments(2) 
The sights and sounds of Panamá can be intoxicating. When it comes to shopping, wherever you go, it seems, you discover something that you want to buy. The people, even the young children—are artistic. They learn at an early age how to make wonderful things with what little they have. The coconut shell with the red flowers was painted by such a child. 
Wood is also used in many ways. It may be in the form of a carving, or as a canvas for remarkable artwork. These treasures were found in El Valle, about a two-hour drive west of Panama City. 
From the clay of the earth comes handmade, hand-painted items with individual designs, like this unique vase…
