Haiti

General Information

Haiti is the second largest Caribbean Island consisting of mountainous land between the Atlantic Ocean in the North and the Caribbean Sea in the South, with several islands surrounding it.

Haiti is in the process of rebuilding its tourism industry after the devastating 2010 earthquake.  Foreign investment is returning and with promises to promote the country and help its re-build, this will soon be the “go-to” destination of the Caribbean.  

With its sun-soaked beaches, many hotels and resorts, Haiti is a great place to get away from it all.  Port-au-Prince is the capital and here you will find “The Unknown Slave” monument for the freedom fighters who won emancipation at the end of the 18th century.  This success made Haiti the first independent black country in the New World.

Visit the Iron Market, rebuilt after 2010, which sells fruits, vegetables, spices and authentic Haitian arts and crafts.

Other things to do in Haiti

Visit the Musée du Panthéon National, where the anchor from the Santa Maria, one of Christopher Columbus’s ships is on display.

Travel to the Côte des Arcadins, one of the islands, which has perfect and distinctive beaches and scenery.

To experience Haiti at its best, visit Bassin Bleu, three sapphire blue pools near Jacmel – a truly beautiful sight to behold.  This is also the “voodoo centre” of Haiti, which boats several temples which are open to tourists.

Kokoye Beach is one of the most striking in the country and definitely worth the trip, but can be a bit difficult to get to.  

Currency

Haiti’s official currency is the gourde (HTG). US dollars are also widely accepted for large purchases. Traveller’s cheques are nearly impossible to change in Haiti, but there are ATMs in Port-au-Prince. These can be unreliable though, so always make sure you have US dollars.

Official language

Haiti has two official languages: French and Haitian Creole, which is a blend of French, Spanish, Portuguese, English and some African languages.

Visit Haiti for a unique and interesting holiday experience.