Haiti

1. Haiti Haiti covers an area 27,750 km 2 (6,236 mi 2) and the country's capital Port-au-Prince and the most important cities Port Bapeix, and Cape Hapetan . Haiti occupies the western third of the island of Hispaniola, in the east of the Dominican Republic occupies two-thirds of the island, separated in the west waters of the Caribbean from Cuba and Jamaica, which is to the nearest Cuba. Form the highlands more than three-quarters of the territory of Haiti, stretching the heights of the land neighbor, then moving towards the west, and the highest peaks of plateaux Mount ESL (2680 m), and includes the highlands some plains and valleys, and in the west of Haiti Bay Jonav and includes the island of Jonav affiliate

2. Water Activities Watersports:Kyona and Ibo beaches (Ibo is on Cacique Isle) are best for swimming, snorkelling, spearfishing, sailing, boomba racing in dugout canoes and water-skiing. La Gonâve is a popular location for fishing 1) Enjoy the Beach The main attraction of Labadee is the crystal clear waters and white sandy beach. Right next to the cruise port is Royal Caribbean’s private Labadee Beach. Loungers are free to enjoy, and the waters are nice and warm if you feel like taking a swim. While not the most exciting of activities, it is definitely the most cost-effective and relaxing

3. 2) Horseback riding on the beach If you’ve never been horseback riding on a beach, Labadee is the perfect place to give it a try. After a short safety briefing, you’ll mount your horse, and embark on a leisurely trot along the water. This is a perfect activity for couples who are looking for a romantic excursion. Depending on how late your ship stays in port, you may be able to catch the sunset during your ride. 3) Dragon’s Breath Flight Line Have you ever wanted to go on a zip lining adventure but never had a chance? If so, the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line is for you. This zip line is the world’s largest over water zip line, soaring as high as 500 feet above the water, at speeds as fast as 50 miles per hour, and for a total distance exceeding 2,000 feet. Unfortunately, this excursion will set your wallet back a bit more than expected, but the excursion encompasses much more than just the Dragon’s Breath zip line. First you’ll warm up on the smaller “Little Dragon” flight line, before boarding safari vehicles to take you to the launch point of the main attraction. This is definitely an excursion that’ll keep adventurous kids happy.

4. 4) Arawak Aqua Park in labadee Royal Caribbean’s aqua park consists of water trampolines, icebergs, and a variety of other aquatic activities to keep the kids happy and busy while in the water. In addition, most excursions which include the Aqua Park either include a ride on the mountainside roller coaster, or a ride down Labadee’s own Dragon’s Breath waterslide. At a much cheaper rate than other excursions on the island, this one is definitely great for families.

5. Sports Activity in Haiti Spectator sports: Football is the favourite national sport, followed by basketball. Other: There is a 9-hole golf course at the Pétionville Club. Tennis courts can be found at the Club Med in Montraus, El Rancho, Habitation Le Clerc, Ibo Beach, Ibo Lake, Kaloa Beach, Pétionville Club and Royal Haitian hotels. The national parks of “La Visite” and “Parc Macaya” offer excellent hiking opportunities. Haitians do not generally have access to the types of organized recreational activities prevalent in other countries, and sporting facilities are limited. Sports and gambling tend to go hand in hand in Haiti. Card games and dominoes are popular pastimes, but the most passion-inspiring gaming is provided by cockfighting, which takes place every Sunday in almost every village and neighborhood across the country. Considerable sums of money pass hands at these gatherings, and a successful trainer can become a powerful figure in the community.

6. Popular sites and attractions with historic significance • 1- Citadelle Laferrière: - The Citadelle Laferrière is a large mountaintop fortress located in northern Haiti, approximately 17 miles(27km) south to the city of Cap Haitian. It is the largest fortress in the Western Hemisphere and was designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1982; it is also the 8th man made wonder. The Citadelle Laferrière has itself become an icon of Haiti and without a doubt the most popular historical attractions in Haiti. 2-Étang Saumâtre: - (in English, brackish pond) is the largest lake in Haiti and the second largest lake in Hispaniola, after Lake Enriquillo. It is also known as Lac Azuéi (Lake Azuéi); it is called Lago del Fondo in the Dominican Republic. Its Taíno name was Yainagua.

7. 3- Sans-Souci Palace The Sans-Souci Palace was the Royal residence of King Henry I, better known as Henry Chrystophe, of Haiti. Construction of the Palace started in 1810 and was completed in 1813. It is located in the town of Milot, a few miles from the incredible and renown Citadelle Laferriere Sans-Souci translated from French means " Without Worry" . A severe earthquake in 1842 destroyed a considerable part of the palace and devastated the nearby city of Cap-Haitien. During it's prime time, Sans Souci is acknowledged by many to have been the equivalent of the Versailles in France. Its uniqueness and poignant history, made UNESCO listed it in it's World Heritage Sites, in 1982.

8. 4. Bois Caiman : - This is a site of historical importance and it is the place where the first event of Haitian revolution was planned that was the slave insurrection. Slaves from all the surrounding areas gathered secretly and took part in a ritual and planning against the ruling white leaders

9. 5- The National Museum of Haiti (Musée National d'Haiti) in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, was completed in 1938. It is located at Route Nationale No. 1 in the neighborhood of Montrouis. It is not to be confused with the Musée du Panthéon National Haitien (MUPANAH) (built in 1983), which is located across the street from the National Palace. The National Museum houses information and artifacts covering the history of Haiti from the time of the Arawak and Taino Indians until the 1940s. There are murals showing the treatment of the Indians by the Spaniards and the treatment of African slaves by the French. There are also artifacts relating to the emperors of Haiti, including the pistol with which King Henri Christophe committed suicide.

10. Festivals : - The most festive time of the year in Haiti is during Carnival (referred to as Kanaval in Haitian Creole or Mardi Gras). The festivities start in February. The cities are filled with music, parade floats, and people dancing and singing in the streets. Carnival week is traditionally a time of all-night parties and escape from daily life . Rara Festival : - The Perfect Blend of Religion and Carnival : - Rara Festival was originated in Haiti and it is celebrated on every Christian Easter, every weekend during the Lent (forty days fast-according to biblical reference). This festival sums up the organized chaos that Haiti embodies. This popular festival, which is celebrated in many parts of world, is called as 'peasant carnival' in Haiti. It is celebrated with full excitement and joy at every part of the country.

11. Language:The official languages are French and Creole. English is spoken in tourist areas Religion:The official religions are Roman Catholicism (75 per cent) and Voodooism (70 per cent); most Haitians practise both. Voodooism is a polytheistic folk religion, manifested by a series of complex ritual drawings, songs and dances. It is an African religion, and not incompatible with a shared belief in Christianity. There are Protestant minorities. Dress Haiti is very warm, sunny, and humid, so bring lightweight cottons and a hat. Haitians have a well-developed sense of style, modesty, and appropriateness; even the very poor dress their best for school, church, and clinic. Most Haitian women wear dresses and skirts, while men prefer long pants. Hospital "scrubs" are available to wear in the guest house and hospital. Bring walking shoes, sandals, and/or plastic shower thongs. You may want to bring beachwear, a beach towel, and surf shoes. Laundry facilities are available in the guest house.

12. Shopping is a fabulous affair, an excellent way to explore Haitian culture. It offers several destinations and market places across the country, with diversified culture. Passing through the busy streets and markets, is an absolute vivacious experience. Haiti is renowned for its amazing artistic products and painting styles. Many visitors cannot stop visiting the real artists, after getting amused by their brilliant works in the classy galleries and the museums. • Popular Venues of Haiti:Here is the list of famous Venues in Haiti, for an exclusive and ultimate shopping experience: • Atelye Kreyol - Ateliers Calalou • Astrodesigns - Jerusalem Armenian Ceramic Tiles • Antique shop - Ambiance • AM Jade Co - All things Anime • Action Dancewear - Rwustik Candles Apart from the above mentioned venues, Haiti has numerous designated shops, which are specialized for exclusive commodities. Iron Market and Artisan’s Market are the biggest markets, which worth visiting, as they are very famous across the country.

13. Iron Market (The Largest Market):This market is located in the Port-au-Spain, the capital city of Haiti. It is really a great and exciting spot to explore and purchase the best local Haitian items such as jewelries, seed necklaces, straw hats, leather works, printed fabrics, carvings, wooden items, steel products, etc. This market is always overcrowded by tourists, as it offers plenty of items for enviable personal collection. Some of the exclusive articles and artistic products available in this market could turn out to be a souvenir of an excellent Caribbean tour. One of the most famous Haitian articles is the ‘nife painting’, which is available in great varieties in the Iron Market. This market has a great scope for bargainers, which is often a vogue while shopping. Artisan’s Market (The Great Shopping Destination):Artisan’s Market is located in the fantastic settings of the beach compound, in the city of Cap-Haïtien. It is famous for beautiful handcrafted art and local craft products, which are available in great varieties. One could not stop drinking the coffee at this market, which is of superb quality. The national drinks such as Cognac and the Rhum Barbancourt, are equally famous in this market, which are worth tasting!.

14. 1- The Complexe Oasis: - is the best special one. it is the biggest complex of its kind in Haiti. Building houses a luxurious 132 rooms 5 star hotel, a bank, nice upscale boutiques and restaurant, serving the finest of Haitian Cuisine as well as foreign ones of course, and needless to say many other great amenities are also offered. The cost of this ambitious project was U$29 million.

15. 2-Marriott Hotels and Resorts Marriott International is in the process of building this 45 million dollars, 173 room luxurious hotel in the lush and quiet mountainous area of Port-au-Prince, Turgeau. Just 5 miles from the Airport, in collaboration with Digicel, Haiti and the Caribbean largest cell phone company. It will house 5 Presidential suites and will offer: Free Wi-Fi, a 40''Flat screen TV in every room, sauna, a gym and so many other great amenities, such as 24 hour room service, a lobby bar and a lounge to name just a few.

16. 3-Best Western Premier Hotel • Haitian businessmen. The cost This 5 star luxurious Hotel. opened in Petion-Ville on April 3rd of 2013; it was first projected to open late 2013, 40'' flat screen TV in every room and a view of the breathtaking bay of Port-au-Prince. More than half of this lavish hotel is owned by a group of wealthy of this hotel is U$10 millions. 4-The Belle Rive Residences: - Hotel & Club is an exciting development of a private luxury residential, hotel and club resort in the coastal town of Jacmel a city South East Haiti. The Residences at Belle Rive consist of 21 sensitively designed townhouses of four stories.

17. 4- Hotel des Artistes: - Located on 21 acre property, adjacent to the Toussaint L'Ouverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, is the construction of this mega 250 rooms 5 star hotel, for the cost of $38 million. Besides its envious location, one of the best features of the Hotel de Artistes is it's gingerbread House design. Haiti is world famous for Its 18th century colonial gingerbread house, and the engineer of this marvelous structures wanted to play their part on the conservation efforts of Haiti's gingerbread house, and loudly emphasize the country's uniqueness. Despite its 10 presidential and royal suites, the Hotel des Artistes will mainly target regular visitors, especially Haitian diaspora who usually stay in Port-au-Prince before jumping into a plane or bus to visit their relatives in other parts of the country. Gym, free Wi-Fi, spa, 2 pools are among the numerous amenities that will be offered. Early 2014 will saw the completion of the Hotel des Artistes.

18. 5- Village de Port- Jacmel " Haiti's Hidden Gem! " Le Village de Port- Jacmel will consist of a 45 room, 4 star Hotel and Boutique Resort that's affordable for everyone. The resort will have a retail shops, art galleries, 3 restaurants and 4 bars, a one of a kind entertainment deck over looking the beautiful historic Jacmel and the Jacmel Bay. The property will include entertainment such as weddings, fashion shoots and all kinds of amazing amenities. Other amenities include: Spa, Gym, Marina, Bakery and Boulangerie, Tennis Court by Venus Williams and home of the Venus Williams Haitian After-School Academy.

19. Restaurants 1-Épi d’Or: - Port Au Prince, Haiti :- This Haitian take on the Subway-style sandwich outlet was taking Port-au-Prince by storm . As well as fantastic sandwiches, it also serves crepes, pizza and ‘MacEpi’ burgers, and there’s an in-house patis­serie, all in bright surroundings and with cool air-con. Pay first, then present your ticket to complete the order. Be prepared for lengthy lunchtime queues.

20. 2- Fior di Latte :- Port Au Prince, Haiti :- Fior di Latte is not particularly well signed (it’s next to the American Airlines office). This restaurant’s vine-covered canopy is a lovely place to take an extended lunch break. The menu is Italian, with great plates of pasta and pizza, and some really tasty quiches thrown in, too. Finishing a meal with a bowl of homemade ice cream is a must.

21. 3- Papaye: - Port Au Prince, Haiti :- Caribbean fusion’ aren’t words you expect to see written in a Haitian restaurant review, but Papaye carries off the idea with considerable aplomb, taking Creole dishes and jamming them up against Asian, European and other culinary influences. Somehow it works, and is worth repeated investigation. 4- Akenssa Plaza Restaurant : - Cap Haïtien, Haiti: - This is a cheap and cheerful place in the town center, although busier during the day than in the evening, when beer tends to win out over food in the ordering stakes. All the Creole standards are here, such as griyo (pork) and lambi, piled high with rice and plantain. Pasta dishes and burgers cater to other tastes. 5- Le Buffet Resto-Bar: - Jacmel, Haiti: - Le Buffet is a hole-in-the-wall place serving simple but satisfying Creole dishes. Ask what’s available that day – usually chicken, griyo (pork) or kabrit (goat) with plantains, undoubtedly washed down with a cold Prestige and accompanied by a tomato and avocado salad.

22. Famous Restaurants in Haiti too 1- La Souvenance :- Port-au-Prince, Haïti. 2- Lakay: - Boulevard du Carenage, Cap-Haitien, Haïti. 3-Magdoos : - 30 RUE OGE, Port-au-Prince, Haïti. 4-La Souvenance: - 48, Rue Geffrard, Petionville, Haiti.

23. 5-Patisserie Marie Beliard : - 9, Rue Faubert, Petionville, Haiti Famous local food Rice and beans are considered the national dish and are the most commonly eaten meal in urban areas. Traditional rural staples are sweet potatoes, manioc, yams, corn, rice, pigeon peas, cowpeas, bread, and coffee. More recently, a wheat-soy blend from the United States has been incorporated into the diet. Important treats include sugarcane, mangoes, sweetbread, peanut and sesame seed clusters made from melted brown sugar, and candies made from bitter manioc flour. People make a crude but highly nutritious sugar paste called rapadou. Haitians generally eat two meals a day: a small breakfast of coffee and bread, juice, or an egg and a large afternoon meal dominated by a carbohydrate source such as manioc, sweet potatoes, or rice. The afternoon meal always includes beans or a bean sauce, and there is usually a small amount of poultry, fish, goat, or, less commonly, beef or mutton, typically prepared as a sauce with a tomato paste base. Fruits are prized as between-meal snacks. Non-elite people do not necessarily have community or family meals, and individuals eat wherever they are comfortable. A snack customarily is eaten at night before one goes to sleep