Many travelers looking for an exotic vacation immediately think “Caribbean.” Yes, there are many exotic Caribbean destinations with much to offer in the way of things to do. However, there is one location that doesn’t immediately come to mind. Haiti shares Hispaniola Island with the Dominican Republic and offers plenty of activities for fun-loving folk. Read on to find out why Haiti is an excellent choice for a unique Caribbean vacation.
Haiti as a Caribbean destination
As the world starts moving around again, travelers are looking for the perfect destination. While many destinations come to mind, there is one relatively unknown vacation destination to try out this year. With its idyllic beaches, Haiti is a beautiful tropical resort but isn’t usually on travelers’ bucket lists. However, it should be.
While Haiti is still recovering from Hurricane Isaias in 2020, the Caribbean island is now eager to show its hospitality. Choosing a vacation in this tropical destination is worthwhile in so many ways, as well as stimulating the local economy. Let’s take a brief look at what is available to travelers on the island.
Haiti, magic and voodoo
Hispaniola Island has had a grueling past and was one of the first visited by Christopher Columbus in 1492. The island became a Spanish colony that made money from the cultivation of sugar cane and the slave trade. Eventually, a successful slave rebellion led to its abolition. From then on Haitians were a culturally rich and proud people. Haiti’s culture is known for its voodoo art and a surprising film and music scene.
While the locals aren’t keen to share their voodoo arts with visitors, it is a fascinating aspect of the Caribbean country. During a stay, visitors can visit a medicine man or attend a performance by voodoo rockers of RAM.
Port-au-Prince, capital of Haiti
The capital of Haiti is Port-au-Prince, a city known for its contrasts. During the 2010 earthquake, the city was badly damaged and just as the country was getting right, the 2020 Hurricane Isaias led to more problems.
However, the city has many interesting places to visit. Here, you will find rich neighborhoods, close to the poorest neighborhoods of the city. Meanwhile, in the central square of the town, the famous gingerbread houses stand with the ruins of the cathedral. A visit to the local artist markets reveals many fascinating wares, including those related to the voodoo culture.
Carnival in Jacmel
If travelers can time their vacation right, they can experience the fascinating Carnival in Jacmel. The holiday comes each year in February or March, as in other Roman Catholic countries. The date does vary, but it precedes Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. The southern city of Jacmel is the best place to experience carnival in Haiti. The holiday is known for its fascinating and colorful homemade costumes, with often eerie masks.
Meanwhile, an exploration of the coastal city reveals attractive colonial architecture. It is also a beautiful place to experience the beach and turquoise waters.
Take a unique Caribbean vacation in Haiti to experience these and other fascinating attractions in the country.
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