Haiti Bed and Breakfast, Cheap Hotel and Guest House Accommodation

Haiti, located on the western third of the island of Hispaniola, has a unique and complex history. Once a French colony, it became the first independent black republic in the world after a successful slave revolt in 1804, making it the second independent nation in the Western Hemisphere. Haiti’s vibrant culture and resilience stem from its African, French, and indigenous influences, which have shaped its identity despite facing political and economic challenges.

Port-au-Prince, the capital city, is a lively urban center filled with art, history, and culture. Visitors can explore the Iron Market, a bustling marketplace showcasing local crafts, or the Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien, which tells the story of Haiti's fight for independence. Cap-Haïtien, located in the north, is another important city, home to some of Haiti’s most significant historical sites, including the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Haitian freedom.

For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Jacmel is a quaint town on the southern coast known for its colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene. Its laid-back charm attracts many visitors, especially during its colorful Carnival celebrations. In the countryside, towns like Kenscoff and Furcy offer cooler climates and stunning mountain views, ideal for a retreat from the bustling cities.

Haiti is known for its offshore islands, with Île-à-Vache being one of the most popular. This tranquil island is known for its unspoiled beaches and lush landscapes. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and exploring small fishing villages. Another notable island is Île de la Tortue (Tortuga), historically a pirate haven, now offering secluded beaches and a glimpse into Haiti’s past.

For fun things to do, visitors can hike to the Citadelle Laferrière, an impressive mountaintop fortress, or relax on the stunning beaches of Labadee, a private resort area popular with cruise ships. In Jacmel, explore the local art galleries or take a dip in the Bassin Bleu, a series of stunning turquoise waterfalls. For a more adventurous experience, head to Saut-d’Eau, a sacred waterfall that’s a pilgrimage site for locals.

Haiti’s cuisine is rich and flavorful, with many unique dishes to try. Magdoos in Port-au-Prince is a favorite spot for local Haitian food, blending African, French, and Caribbean influences. Don’t miss the griot (fried pork), tassot (fried beef), and diri ak djon djon (black mushroom rice). In Cap-Haïtien, Lakou Lakay offers authentic Haitian dishes in a charming, historic setting. Jacmel’s seaside restaurants are perfect for fresh seafood, especially grilled fish and lobster.

Tourist seaside towns like Labadee are well-known for their pristine beaches and luxurious resorts. However, for a more authentic experience, towns like Côtes-de-Fer offer quieter, more intimate beach settings, perfect for getting away from the crowds and enjoying Haiti’s natural beauty.

Accommodation options in Haiti range from luxury resorts to charming guest houses. Karibe Hotel in Port-au-Prince is a renowned luxury hotel offering modern amenities and tropical gardens. Habitation Jouissant in Cap-Haïtien offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, and Hotel Florita in Jacmel is a historic boutique hotel with artistic flair. Eco-lodges like Auberge Villa Cana near Cap-Haïtien offer a more rustic and immersive experience.

There are many things to see in Haiti, including the Sans-Souci Palace, the former royal residence of King Henri Christophe, and the Iron Market in Port-au-Prince. For art lovers, the street murals of Jacmel and the vibrant paintings at the Centre d’Art in Port-au-Prince are must-sees. The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Cap-Haïtien and the historic gingerbread houses in Port-au-Prince are also notable landmarks.

Haiti is famous for its Carnival celebrations, particularly in Port-au-Prince and Jacmel. Jacmel’s Carnival is known for its papier-mâché masks and artistic flair, while Port-au-Prince’s Carnival is a larger and more elaborate event with parades, music, and dancing. Other festivals include the Rara festival during Easter, featuring lively street performances, and Fête Gede, a voodoo festival honoring the spirits of the dead in November.

Haitian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Staple dishes include griot (fried pork), pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables), and bouillon (a hearty soup made with meats, potatoes, and vegetables). Fresh seafood is abundant, and in coastal towns like Jacmel, visitors can enjoy grilled fish and lobster. For dessert, try the local cassava bread or pen patat, a sweet potato pudding.

Haiti has produced many famous people, including Toussaint Louverture, a leader of the Haitian Revolution, and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who declared Haiti’s independence. More recent figures include Wyclef Jean, a Grammy-winning musician and political activist, and Michaëlle Jean, a former Governor General of Canada. Edwidge Danticat, a renowned author, is another well-known Haitian figure.

Attractions in Haiti range from natural wonders like the Citadelle Laferrière to cultural landmarks like the Sans-Souci Palace. Visitors can also explore the Iron Market in Port-au-Prince, filled with vibrant local crafts, or take a boat trip to Île-à-Vache for some island relaxation. The Bassin Bleu waterfalls in Jacmel are another must-see natural attraction, offering stunning views and refreshing waters for swimming.

Local music in Haiti is an integral part of its culture, with genres like compas, rara, and mizik rasin taking center stage. Rara is traditional Haitian music played during festivals, often with brass instruments and drums, while compas is a danceable, upbeat style. Mizik rasin blends traditional African rhythms with modern rock and jazz, reflecting Haiti’s cultural fusion. Street performances and local bars in Port-au-Prince and Jacmel are great places to experience Haitian music live.

Haiti’s nature sites are breathtaking. The Citadelle Laferrière, perched atop a mountain, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The beaches of Labadee and Île-à-Vache provide serene getaways with white sands and clear waters. The Macaya National Park, home to Haiti’s second-highest peak, is a haven for nature lovers, with tropical rainforests, endemic plants, and wildlife.

Important places to visit in Haiti include the National Museum in Port-au-Prince, which chronicles Haiti’s history from colonization to independence, and Fort Jacques, a historic fortification built after Haiti’s independence. In Jacmel, visitors can explore the historic city center, with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, and visit the vibrant art scene.

Unusual things to see in Haiti include the sacred Saut-d’Eau waterfall, where locals perform voodoo rituals and make pilgrimages. The mysterious “Zombi Cave” in Saint-Michel-de-l’Attalaye is steeped in local folklore and offers a unique glimpse into Haiti’s spiritual beliefs. The vibrant street art in Jacmel is also unusual, turning the city into an open-air gallery of colorful murals and sculptures.