Portobello, black Jesus

Morning visit to small but historic town of Portobello (inspiration for the road) which was key in the trade route across Atlantis, especially for treasure from Peru.

Slightly dull guided tour, lots of colourful wall art, a church with a black Jesus, and ruins of old Spanish fort, sacked by Henry Morgan who appeared from jungle with 400 men rather than confront maritime forts and the huge chain that blocked the entrance to the harbour.

really good artwork on sale but silly $us prices.

back on board for song and dance, Congo devil dance. usually performed ashore but 20 December is anniversary of US invasion so no parties, alcohol etc allowed.

zodiac cruise to spot a few birds a bit later before crossing back to Colon, where moored for a noisy night in industrial harbour.

Like the anecdote about Panama qualifying for 2018 world cup. to qualify Panama had to beat Costa Rica, and USA had to lose to Trinidad, very very unlikely. but USA lost 3-0 and Panama scored last minute winner. country went wild and started partying. President went live on TV at 2 am and announced a national holiday. party finished about midday the day after!

when Panama scored their first goal in World cup, against England (England were 6-0 up at the time) they started partying again, but president said no national holiday, but no one would be sacked for being late for work.Read more