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Haiti Travel Wiki
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Travel to Haiti
Haiti is located on the island of Hispaniola and shares a border with the Dominican Republic. It is a destination that can provide challenging outdoor excursions, relaxing beach afternoons, and world-class resort amenities. Carnival in Haiti is one of the most popular celebrations of its type in the entire Caribbean. A different city hosts the celebration each year and the history of the celebration dates to at least 1804. Concerts, plays, and dancing performances are all part of the procession.
Labadee is a popular port destination in Haiti, located along the northern coast. The area is a private resort that is leased to a cruise organization. There is a traditional flea market on the grounds, a water-based playground, several beaches to enjoy, and outdoor activities, such as a zip-line. Jacmel is another important destination on the island, founded in 1504 by Spanish colonists and then resettled in 1698 by the French. Much of the town is preserved, protected from recent earthquakes, and is one of the best examples of French Colonial architecture found in the Americas. Be sure to take a stroll along the seaside promenade and enjoy the many hidden gems you’ll find along the way.
Haiti offers numerous volunteer holiday opportunities as well where you can be socially active and help those in difficult situations. The sun shines down brightly on Haiti, providing warmth wherever it touches. You will find that the perfect holiday adventure may be waiting for you here. It’s up to you to claim this opportunity.
Best of Haiti
Called ‘land of the mountains’ by natives and ‘pearl of the Antilles’ by the French, Haiti deserves its many names. Housed on the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with the Dominican Republic, this island nation features natural beauty that is, according to some, unparalleled in the Caribbean. The nation’s rich and proud history matches its pristine coastline and verdant forests. It is also one of the most affordable tourist destinations in the Americas. From mountain peaks to sandy beaches, Haiti never fails to stun.
Haitian culture is truly unique, a blend of African, French, native, and Spanish colonial influences. From indigenous voodoo traditions to the creative melodies of Haitian musicians, there’s plenty of exploration for any traveler to immerse themselves in. ‘Compas,’ a popular genre, fuses African sensibilities with European ballroom dancing and little flairs that are all Haiti. Haitian visual art is just as colorful as its musical taste, full of bright colors and vivid storytelling.
Local cuisine follows music and art in its combination of distinct influences. Beans, rice, and corn are staples of the Haitian diet, and numerous vegetables and meats add to the mix. Fried bananas are popular treats, either on their own or paired with goat and pork. Needless to say, there’s plenty to explore.
Haiti is known as one of the Caribbean’s most energetic nations come Carnival. The island is caught up in weeks of revelry each year, culminating in Mardi Gras. The federal government recently declared that the official party be held in a different city each year, which means that each region is ecstatic to take its turn, and fiercely competitive when it comes to hosting the ‘best’ Carnival. Of course, every year is a great success, with flamboyant parades streaming down city streets in cascades of color and dance. Compas bands take center stage during Carnival, eager to show off their skill and earn the appreciation of new fans, both foreign and domestic.
The city of Cap-Haitien is a must-see for anyone visiting Haiti. The northerly city is one of the nation’s largest, and bears the distinction of hosting the last battle of the successful Haitian Revolution, which was the first and only successful slave revolt in the Americas. Labadie beach resort draws thousands of visitors each year with its white sands, clear waters, and other attractions, such as a zip-line.
The city is also known for the Citadelle Laferriere, a relic of colonial times. It holds the title of World Heritage Site, as well as the distinction of being the largest fortress in the Americas. The fortress was built after the successful revolt to protect the nation against further attacks, and much of it remains intact today. The city also houses other historic sites, most interesting of them the beach of Bois Caiman, which saw a great Vodou ceremony at the start of the rebellion.
Travel resources
Below you can find usefull travel resources for your visit to the country
Weather Online
Official holidays
When are holidays and no working days in the country ?
Date | English | French |
---|---|---|
January 1 | New Year's Day | Nouvel an |
January 2 | Ancestry Day | Jour des Aieux |
January 6 | Epiphany | Le Jour des Rois |
Variable | Carnival/Mardi Gras | Carnaval/Mardi Gras |
Variable | Ash Wednesday | Mercredi Des Cendres |
Variable | Maundy Thursday | Jeudi saint |
Variable | Good Friday | Vendredi saint |
Variable | Easter Sunday | Pâques |
Variable | Ascension Day | Ascension |
Variable | Corpus Christi | Fête-Dieu |
May 1 | Labour Day | Fête du Travail |
May 18 | Flag and Universities Day | Jour du Drapeau et de l'Université |
August 15 | Assumption of Mary | L'Assomption de Marie |
October 17 | Dessalines Day | Anniversaire de la mort de Dessalines |
November 1 | All Saints Day | La Toussaint |
November 2 | All Souls' Day | Jour des Morts |
November 18 | Battle of Vertières Day | Vertières |
December 5 | Discovery Day | Découverte d'Haïti |
December 25 | Christmas Day | Noël |