How to Find Hotels in Haiti

Formerly a French colony, Haiti became the first independent black republic in 1804, after a slave-led revolt. In fact, civil uprisings continue to shape the political landscape today. Located on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, which is also home to the Dominican Republic, Haiti is a country with a colorful history, a rugged terrain, and a society of divergent cultures and religious traditions.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Know Your Destination

1. Appreciate the simplicity of the local way of life. Haiti is one of the least developed and poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. Despite this, Haitians are generally a dignified and polite people who are grateful for the most basic necessities.

2. Enjoy the tropical climate of Haiti, but be aware that hurricanes and other severe storms often occur from June to October.

Choose Your Transportation

1. Take a taxi (usually a truck or SUV) if your comfort and safety are worth the near-prohibitive cost.

2. Save money by taking a tap-tap (public bus). They are usually made from pickup trucks with attached cabins containing wooden benches. Though very cheap, they can be dangerous due to poor road conditions. They are also not recommended for travelers who don't speak conversational Creole.

Select Your Accommodations

1. Arrange your accommodations at one of the many Guest Houses in Haiti. Rooms are generally inexpensive and often include some meals.

2. Find inexpensive accommodations while also supporting a good cause at St. Joseph's Home For Boys, an orphanage with an associated Guest House. They offer cheap rooms with double bunk beds, breakfast and dinner.

3. Adhere to your budget. Although some accommodations in Haiti are inexpensive, deluxe hotels can cost a hefty amount of money, even for a single night's stay.

Visit Tourist Attractions

1. Enjoy Port-au-Prince, the capital of Hatiti, for its lively, crowded market the Marche de Fer (the Iron Market). A chaotic mix of Parisian and African goods and atmosphere, it is a good place to find fresh fruit and household and religious items.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn some basic conversational Creole and earn the respect and help of the locals.

• Make sure to travel with any prescription medications you may need, as medical care is practically non-existent in Haiti.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Violent demonstrations sometimes occur on the streets of Haiti, as do random violent crimes and looting.

• Make sure to obtain a prophylaxis for Malaria before traveling to Haiti.