Haiti: History, Government, Economy, Geography, Culture and More.

About Haiti

The first Black republic of Haiti has a rich and fruitful history. Leading the first successful slave revolt in the early 1800’s. During the French Revolution of the late 1700’s, the Haitian Revolution brewed the freeing of African slaves led by a former slave general, Toussaint Louverture. Captured 2 years before the defeat of the French, Louverture’s successor, Jean Jacques Dessalines conquered the French in a 12-year battle. Leading, to the abolishing of slavery in Haiti.

Where the French say Haïti and Haitians say Ayiti, the Republic of Haiti is located in between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean apart of Greater Antillean archipelago. Being the second-most populous country in the Caribbean, the Pearl of the Antilles (La Perle des Antilles) occupies the western one-third of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola being 27,750 square kilometers (10,714 sq mi) in size and has an estimated population of 11.1 million. In this estimated total, Populous urban areas include Port au Prince, Cap Haïtien, Gonaïves and Les Cayes. 

Source: Kids National Geographic: Haiti

In Haiti the primary language being French, which is used in public life from politics, government, and intellectual life. Despite this, advocates voice the importance of teaching Haitian-Creole to uplift and encourage the nationwide acceptance of speaking Haiti’s native language. Within the complex intersection on the two languages, regional and class variations play a major role in French phonemes in Creole speech.

Central to the Haitian culture is religion and spirituality. With indigenous roots there are a multi-faceted set of religious traditions in Haiti. Roman-Catholicism remains the predominant religion in Haiti. Other religions include Baptists, Pentecostal, and non-religious individuals. Despite there being a margin number of individuals practicing, recently there has been a nationwide education on Haiti’s practice of west African spirituality, Vodou (Voodoo or Vodun).

Haiti’s Culture

With a unique historical, regional, and ethno-linguistic, the vibrant and flavorful Haitian culture leaves tourists alike dumbfounded by its overall beauty. Let’s dive into Haitian cuisine, sound, events, arts, and destination experiences.

Food

Known for its blend of cultural influences, Haitian cuisine is a distinct fusion of French, Spanish, African, Arabian, and even American dishes. The gastronomic delights of Haiti including a mixture of flavorful dishes that will tickle your palates. Reflecting the tradition and culture, trailblazing gourmet chefs like Chef David Destinoble and Natacha Gomez exemplify locally sourced delights. Renowned luxury restaurants with unforgettable dining experience with scenic views, it’s no wonder Haiti is known for its

Music

Diversified in sound, Haiti’s music encompasses influences drawn from African rhythms, Spanish flows, and French undertones. Our music touches the various sounds of the world. From our ballads, twoubadou, folkloric beats, rasin spiritual connection to vodou, rara, hip-hop, rap Kreyol to our widely popular meringue, konpa.

Events

Popular musical festivals experiences like Haitian Carnival and Port-au-Prince International Jazz Fest take tourists on an incredible journey through the historical sounds of Haiti. Celebrating our Independence Day every January 1^st with a traditional sip of soup joumou to ring in the new year. On January 2^nd, Haitian people take to public spaces to honor forefathers on Ancestry Day. SumFest bringing in spring breakers to experience the tropical climate of Haiti. Or at Carifesta where Haitian artistic value comes alive.

Haiti gives those looking for a night on the town a personalized experience like no other. Known for being the hope of the city that does not sleep, Haiti’s nightlife is the go-to for restaurants that turn into exclusive lounge experiences. Home of invite-only experiences Noche Buena where socialites of Haiti spend a day basking in their youth. Or, at Diner en Blacnc—Haiti, the luxury invite-only world phenomenon pop-up dinner where its exclusive guest picnic the night away.

Arts

Art is Haitian has an unrefined tradition that reminds art buyers and fans of the strong African and Indigenous roots. Used to communicate raw emotion and experiences, Haitian art is a visual reminder of strength and spirit of Haiti. Master artists like Rigaud Benoit, Préfète Duffaut, and Gesner Abelard, gain international attention and draws spotlights to Haiti. Abreast the walls of Port-au-Prince hotels and hotspot are lined with local artists social and political pieces.

Traveling to Haiti

Destinations

Indulge in the picturesque views of the surrounding mountainous areas. Hike to the eighth wonder of the world, La Citadelle Laferrière. One of the largest fortresses known in the world perched on the peak of a mountain. Talk about fitness goals, this uphill walk will leave you breathless from the panoramic view and your daily required 30-minute walk.

Pick up handcrafted memorabilia by native artists and craftsmen or organic produce found in Haiti’s Iron Market located in Port-Au- Prince. Exhibitions of historical artifacts and master paintings where art goers and history wander lusters bask in the richness of Haiti via the Musée du Panthéon National (MUPANAH).

Jump in and swim the pristine, turquoise waters of the private waterfall located within the trenches of Jacemel, Haiti. Bassin Bleu’s breathtaking landscaping covered in vegetation is exhilarating for nature enthusiasts.

Known for the best beaches and sugary white sand, Haiti’s beaches alone will have tourists running from harsh winters to experience the tropical waters of our shores. Relax on the sandy shores of private island, Labadee to enjoy the exclusive watersports and extreme adventures of ziplining.

Hotels

Given the green stamp of approval by Trip Advisor, hotels like Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort and Spa, Royal Oasis, Xaragua Hotel, NH Haiti El Rancho, Best Western Premier Petion-Ville, and Karibe Hotel remain the top lodging hotels in Haiti. From hotels privately atop mountains, near white sandy beaches, or in the heart of the busiest cities, there is a hotel for all travelers.

Destination wedding

Couples bask in capturing the awe-inspiring landmarks in Cap Haitien, enrich your worldview in the history the envelopes the city. Take breath taking engagement photos with the ancestry of the first Black Republic scenic view at La Citadel. Making Haiti an uncovered perfect pick for destination weddings.  Each excursion experienced gives guests the in-depth view of the first Black republic and the story behind their revolution. Covered in mountainous with a desirable tropical climate, our travel experiences is deal for couples to bask in capturing the awe-inspiring landmarks enriched in architectural phenomenon’s like Palais Sans Souci to celebrate the beginning and a lifetime of happiness.

Haiti being the second-oldest republic in the Western-Hemisphere has revolutionary history surrounds all aspects of living and travel and Haiti. From the abolishing of slavery, delicate food, diversified music, personalized events, colorful art, exclusive travel destinations, to the memorable destination wedding experiences. Journey to the tropical Perles of the Antilles.