Insiders know that Haiti boasts pristine waterfalls, enchanting landscapes, a vibrant and prolific culture, and a people filled with the friendliness and warmth of islanders around the world. Yet, this tiny country of roughly 9 million is almost exclusively associated with poverty, political turmoil, and most recently, a devastating earthquake in 2010. Indeed, Haiti has more than its fair share of challenges; but to deny its natural beauty, cultural and historical accomplishments, is to deny its ability to forge its own future and to trap it in a state of failed interventions and economic and social dependency.
In recognition of the potential, hope, and beauty that still exists in Haiti, we have complied a list of ten things (plus one) that you probably thought you couldn't do in Haiti... but definitely can!
Go Paragliding: Outfitters in the beautiful village of La Vallee de Jacmel will help you soar off of the magnificent hills of this verdant region.
Scuba Dive: Marine life, history, (and maybe treasure?) await off of Haiti's northern and southern coasts. Guides are available for hire.
Visit Historical Sights: Haiti boasts a UNESCO world heritage site and many forts dating back to the pre and post revolutionary era.
Go Hiking:You can virtually hike anywhere once you have left PAP. For those looking for formal trails, try Le Montcel. You can also be adventurous and try the villages at the base of Morne La Selle.
Pitch a Tent: Blessed with endless mountains and rural landscapes, there are many options for camping. In some areas, you can stay with local villagers.
Appreciate Nature: The Pic Macaya region hosts a bird sanctuary and the Parc National La Visite, one of two national parks, has species not found any where else on the island.
Dance the Night Away: From compas, troubadour, zouk, to modern rap kreyol, explore the myriad musical forms and dance styles at play in Haiti's dance "clubs", which range from rural dirt floored huts to techno thumping night spots.
Be an Art Collector The bold colors and emotive forms indicative of Haitian art have influenced great artists the world over from Dewitt Peters to Andre Breton. Some even claim that much of the art sold in the Caribbean today originates in Haiti. From backyard workshops displaying voodoo inspired metal sculptures and decorative wall pieces to upscale galleries showcasing finer tableauxs, there are many options for art lovers.
Delight in Creole Cuisine: Creole cuisine is in a constant state of change and reflects the various cultures with which it has made contact: African, French, Spanish, American. Try the breadfruit fritters with the spicy pikliz and don't forget the rum punch.
Spend a Lazy day on the Beach: Many forget that Haiti is in the Caribbean, meaning it is blessed with blue water and sandy beaches. Because of little to no tourism, you can have a beach all to yourself -minus a few fisherman depending on where you lay your beach towel.
Connect with People The best part of traveling to Haiti is connecting with its people. In the countryside, friendly faces abound and welcome you home. Enjoy a cup of ginger tea with a few village elders and engage in a night of storytelling.
Discover some of the best of Haiti with us in December as we Re-Imagine Haiti.
http://www.igobeyondtravel.com
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