Among Haitian immigrants, the official languages are French and Haitian Creole (Kreyòl Ayisyen). Just about
all Haitians speak the latter–a creole based primarily on French as well as African elements, along with some
Spanish, English and Taíno influences. Creole (Kreyòl ayisyen) is a language based on the French language.

Here are some of Haiti, phrases, meanings available below:

Ti – little (contraction of the French word “petite”)

Bocor – Voodoo priest

Bon nuit – Goodnight

Ba bay – Good-bye

Bonjou! – Good morning!

Pa gen pwoblem – No problem

Komon ou ye? – How are you?

Atansyon! – Attention!/Watch out!

Piti piti – A little bit

Anpil – A lot

Komon ou ye? – How are you?

Mesi – Thanks

Tout bagay anfom? – Is everything OK?

Mother – maman

Father – papa, pè

Grandmother – gran-papa, grann

Grandfather – granpè

Son – fis, pitit gason

Daughter – tifi, pitit fi

Sister – sè

Brother – frè

Aunt – tant, matant

Uncle – tonton, monnonk

white – blan

gray – gri

black – nwa

red – rouj

violet – vyolèt

yellow – jòn

green – vè, vèt

pink – roz

orange – zoranj

brown – maron

blue – ble

gold – lò

silver – ajan, lajan

zero – 0

yonn, en – 1

de, dez – 2

twa – 3

kat, katr – 4

senk – 5

sis – 6

sèt – 7

uit, ywit – 8

nèf – 9

dis – 10

onz – 11

douz – 12

trèz – 13

katòz – 14

kenz – 15

sèz – 16

disèt – 17

dizwit – 18

diznèf – 19

ven, vent – 20

venteyen, vent-yonn- 21

vennde, vent-dez – 22

venntwa, vent-twa – 23

trant – 30

tranteyen, trant-yonn – 31

trannde – 32

tranntwa – 33

karant – 40

karanteyen, karant-yonn- 41

karannde – 42

karanntwa – 43

senkant – 50

swasant – 60

swasenndis – 70

swasenteyonz- 71

swasenndouz- 72

swasenntrèz- 73

katreven, katrevent – 80

katrevendis, katreven-dis- 90

katrevenonz, katreven-onz- 91

katrevendouz- 92

katreventrèz- 93

san – 100

san en, san yonn – 101

san dis – 110

de san, dez san – 200

de san ven – 220

twa san – 300

kat san – 400

senk san – 500

si san – 600

sèt san – 700

ui(t) san – 800

nèf san – 900

nèf san katrevendisèt – 997

nèf san katrevendizuit – 998

nèf san katrevendiznèf – 999

mil – 1000

de mil – 2000

senk mil – 5000

di mil – 10 000

san mil – 100 000

1 milyon – 1 000 000, 1 million

1 bilyon – 1 000 000 000, 1 billion

Please – S’il vous plait

Thank-you – Merci

Excuse me – excusez-moi

How are you? – Comment allez-vous?

Have a nice day – bonne journee

Hello – Bounjour

Good-bye – Au revoir

Winter – hiver

Spring – printemps

Summer – été

Autumn – automne

kòlgat (Colgate) — “toothpaste”

jilèt (Gillette) — “razor”

pampèz (Pampers) — “nappy” or (Am) “diaper”

kodak (Kodak) — “camera”

frijide (Frigidaire) – “refrigerator”

delko (Delco) – “generator”

iglou (Igloo) – “cooler”

chiklèt (Chiclets) – “gum”

kyouteks (Cutex) – “nail polish”

jip (Jeep)- “SUV”

liv yo – the books

machin yo – the cars

Fi yo mete wòb – The girls put on dresses

lajan li -”his/her money”

“fanmi mwen” or “fanmi m” – my family

kay yo “their house” or – “their houses”

papa ou” or “papa w” – your father

chat Pyè – Pierre’s cat

chèz Mari – Marie’s chair

zanmi papa Jan – Jean’s father’s friend

papa vwazen zanmi nou - our friend’s neighbor’s father

yon kouto – a knife

yon kravat – a necktie

kravat la – the tie

liv la – the book

kay la – the house

anp lan – the lamp

bank lan – the bank

kouto a – the knife

peyi a – the country

fanmi an – the family

mi an - the wall

chien an – the dog

pon an – the bridge

machin nan – the car

telefòn nan – the telephone

madanm nan – the woman

jaden sa (a) bèl – This garden is beautiful.

sa se zanmi mwen – this is my friend

sa se chien frè mwen – this is my brother’s dog

Li ale travay le maten – He goes to work in the morning.

Li dòmi le swa – He sleeps in the evening.

Li li Bib la - She reads the Bible.

Mwen fè manje - I make food.

Nou toujou etidye – We study all the time.

Li se frè mwen – he is my brother

Mwen se doktè - I am a doctor

Sa se yon pye mango – That is a mango tree

Nou se zanmi – we are friends

Se yon bon ide – That is a good idea

Se nouvo chemiz mwen – This is my new shirt

L ap vin bel frè’m – He will be my brother-in-law

Mwen vle vin yon doktè – I want to become a doctor

S ap ay vin yon pye mango – That will become a mango tree

N ap vin zanmi – We will be friends

“Ayisyen mwen ye” = “Mwen se Ayisyen” - I am Haitian

Ki moun sa ye? – Who is that?

Kouman ou ye? – How are you?

M gen yon zanmi malad - I have a sick friend.

zanmi mwen malad. – My friend is sick.

Mwen genyen lajan nan bank lan – I have money in the bank.

Gen anpil Ayisyen nan Florid – There are many Haitians in Florida.

Gen yon moun la – There is someone here.

Pa gen moun la – There is nobody here.

Mwen genyen match la – I won the game.

Èske ou konnen non li? – Do you know his name?

M pa konnen kote li ye – I don’t know where he is.”

Mwen konn fè manje – I know how to cook (lit. “I know how to make food”)

Èske ou konn ale Ayiti? – Have you been to Haïti? (lit. “Do you know to go to Haiti?”)

Li pa konn li fransè – He can’t read French (lit. “He doesn’t know how to read French.”)

Mwen pale kreyòl – I speak Haitian Creole

mwen manje – I ate

ou manje – you ate

li manje – he/she ate

nou manje – we ate

yo manje – they ate

men t ap manje – “I was eating”

ou t ap manje – “you were eating”

li t ap manje – “he/she was eating”

nou t ap manje – “we were eating”

yo t ap manje – “they were eating”

m ap manje – “I am eating”

w ap manje – “you are eating”

l ap manje – “he/she is eating”

n ap manje – “we are eating”

y ap manje – “they are eating”

Mwen te wè zanmi ou yè – “I saw your friend yesterday”

Nou te pale lontan – “We spoke for a long time”

Lè li te gen uit an… – “When he was eight years old…”

M a travay – “I will work”

M pral travay – “I’m going to work”

N a li l demen – “We’ll read it tomorrow”

Nou pral li l demen – “We are going to read it tomorrow”

Mwen t ap mache e m wè yon chyen – “I was walking and I saw a dog”

yon anana – a pineapple (from Arawak, anana and now used in France ananas)

Anakaona – ? (from Arawak, Anacaona, who was a Taino princess)

anpil – a lot, many (from Fr. “en pile”, lit. in piles, in great amounts)

aprann – to learn

yon bannann – plantain

bat – to whup

yon batay – a fight, a battle

yon goumen – a fight (most popular)

batay – to fight, to battle

goumen – to fight

yon bebe – a baby

bonjou – good day / good morning

bonswa – good evening (bonswa is typically said after 12:00 noon or at sundown)

boukousou – a type of bean

boul, balon – a ball

Byensi – “Of course” (from Fr. “Bien sûr”)

chadèk – grapefruit (from Fr. Chadèque or pamplemousse)

chante – to sing

yon chanson – a song

yon chan – a song, a chant

cheri – darling

cho – hot, temperamental (also used as an adj. i.e. “Fi sa a cho anpil”, That
lady’s really hot! or That girl is rude/slutty.)

doudou – sweetheart

dous – sweet

yon dous – a cookie (food)

enpe dlo – some water

yon fanmi – a family

fè – to make, to do

yon fèt – a party, a birthday

yon fig – a banana

fòl – crazy, only in reference to women (a crazy person – yon moun fou (fòl)

fou – crazy, for reference to either gender (a crazy person – yon moun fou (fòl)

fou – stove

gade – to look (at), to watch (to watch TV – gade TV)

garde – to guard

yon gardyen – a guardian

yon gardyen bu – a goal keeper

gato – a cake

gwayav – guava fruit

gwo – big; also, to be fat (“li gwo”, he is fat or big.)

enpe kafe – some coffee

kaka – feces

yon kann – a sugar cane

yon kenèp – Mamoncillo a.k.a. Spanish lime

kijan – how

kisa – what

kibò, kikote – where

kimoun – who

ki, ke – that (conj.)

kite mwen – leave me / leave me alone

kite mwen ale – let me go

yon kochon – a pig

yon kokoye – a coconut

konprann/komprann – to understand

kouman/kijan ou rele? – what is your name?

kòm – as

kòman/kijan – how

kounyèa – now ex: vini kounye a (come here now)

yon kowosòl/kosòl – Soursop a.k.a Corossol

yon kreyon – a pencil

yon kwafè – a barber

la – here / the

lant/lan – slow

lanse – to launch

yon lougawou – a werewolf, bad witch

yon mambo/manbo – a female witch

manba/mamba-peanut butter

yon bòkò – a male witch

yon ongan – a Vodou priest

yon majisyen – a magician
* yon machin – a car
* yon makak – a monkey

yon manyòk cassav – Cassava a.k.a. manioc

manje – to eat / food (both noun and verb)

enpe manje – some food

mèg – skinny

mèsi/mèrsi – thank you

yon moun – a person

kèk moun – some people (the indefinite article plural form)

move – bad (i.e., “move moun,” a bad person), fighty (a person
that is ready to fight or beat someone up)

pale/parle – to talk / to speak

yon pánye – a basket

yon pitit – a child (a father or mother: my child)

yon pitit fi – a daughter

yon pitit gason – a son

yon pitit pitit – a grand child

pwa – bean

ki pèz ou (genyen)?- what is your weight?

peze – to press (press a button), to weigh (this weighs two liters)

yon pyebwa – tree (lit. wood foot, from Fr. pied de bois)

sa bon pou ou – that’s what you get

yon sache/sachè – a bag

sa (è) bon pour ou – that’s good for you

sa ka fèt / sa k ap fèt – how’s it going?

sa k pase – what’s up?

yon sirèt – a candy

tankou – like (conj.)

yon timoun – a kid (“little person”)

yon granmoun – an adult

tombe – to fall

toutouni – naked

yon vòlè – a thief

vòlè – to steal

yon vòl – a theft, an aeroplane flight (ki vòl ou ape

pran – what flight are you taking?)

pran vòl – to take off (an airplane)

yon avyon – an airplane

vole – to jump or fly

yon zaboka – Avocado

zobogit – to be skinny

yon zonbi/zombi – a ghost (from Africa, zombi)

Independence Day – January 1
Ancestry Day – January 2

February

Carnival

Carnival or Mardi Gras begins before the week before Ash Wednesday, with the main action around the capital Port-au-Prince. They are large bands with massive sound systems that drive around playing music and people dancing and having a grand time. Carnival comes before Rara, which has been dubbed the ‘rural Carnival.’

April

Death of Toussaint L’Ouverture – April 7

July

Saut d’Eau – July 16
Plaine du Nord – July 25
Feast Day of St. Anne – July 26

The two major Voodoo pilgrimages that take place ear year occur during the month of July. Saut d’Eau happens on July 16 in the village of Ville-Bonheur. Pilgrims journey to the sacred waterfall and visit a church built on the spot where the Virgin Mary allegedly appeared in 1884. The second occurs on July 25, which is celebrated on the day of St. James and is associated with the Voodoo spirit Ogou Ferraille. Pilgrims come from all over the country dressed in red-and-blue clothes for the ceremonies. They usually move on to Limonade where the feast day of St. Anne doubles up with Erzulie, another Voodoo spirit.

August

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

October

Death of Jean-Jacques Dessalines – October 17

November

All Saints Day – November 1
All Souls Day – November 2
Vertieres Day – November 18

People visit the cemeteries to pour libations for Baron Samedi around crosses festooned with candles, skulls and marigolds. These visits are done on November 1 and 2 to celebrate All Saints Day and All Souls Day respectively.

December

Discovery Day – December 5
Christmas Day – 25th December
]]> http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-calendar-of-events/feed/ 0 http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-important-addresses/ http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-important-addresses/#comments Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:44:45 +0000 Blogger http://www.ucaribbean.com/blog/?p=359 LOCAL TOURIST INFORMATION:

Office National du Tourisme d’Haiti;
avenue Marie Jeanne;
Port-a-Prince;
Haiti
Tel: 221 729.

Foreign Embassies in the United States:

In addition to the embassies listed below, some Caribbean
countries have consulates or tourist offices in large cities in the
United States. Look for them in your telephone book.

Embassy of Haiti
2144 Wyoming Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20008
(202) 939-9200

U.S. Embassies and Consulates Abroad:

Note that the Bahamas , Cuba , Haiti , and Jamaica are on
Eastern Time. All others are one hour ahead. Note: Some (809)
area codes are expected to change. If you are unable to get
through on (809), consult your telephone directory or the operator.

HAITI
American Embassy
Harry Truman Blvd.
Port-au-Prince, HAITI
(1-509) 22-0200 or 0612

Embassy of Haiti:
2311 Massachusetts Avenue,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.
Tel: (202) 332-4090;
Fax: (202) 745-7215.

Medical Clinics:

Centre Medical Berca
Mozart Cherubin
General Director
BP 450 Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Telephone : (509) 268-6862
E-mail : cmeb7@hotmail.com

Bon Samaritan
P.O. Box 662
Oscoda, MI 48750
Telephone : (989) 724-565

Haitian Health Foundation
97 Sherman Street
Norwich, CT 06360
Telephone : (860) 886-4357

Harvest International, Inc.
Danny Thomas
Executive Director
P.O. Box 6690
Ocala, FL 34479
Telephone : (352) 622-1818

Healing Art Missions
311 North Pearl Street
Granville, OH 43023
Telephone : (740) 587-0632

Living Hope Haiti Medical Clinic
8350 NW 52nd Terrace, Suite 107
Miami, FL 33166
Telephone : (305) 599-2780

Lumiere Medical Ministries (LMM)
3816 South New Hope Road
Gastonia, NC 28056
Telephone : (704) 823-0271

Hospitals:

Pharmacies:

Emergencies Contact Information:

Emergency Air Service:

Ferry Services:

Automobile Rentals:

AVIS
Tel: (509) 246-4161 / (509) 246-2696
Fax: (509) 246-2640

BUDGET
Tel: (509) 246-2324

HERTZ
Tel: (509) 246-0700

SECOMA
Tel: (509) 250-2799; 257-1913

Dynamic Car Rentals
Airport Road
Port-Au-Prince, Haiti
Tel: (509) 250-0700
Fax: (305) 513-5878

Taxi Companies:

Taxis are available at the airport. The ACGH taxis
are generally the most courteous and reliable. They
are accredited by the ACGH (Association des Chauffeurs
Guides d’Haïti). The ACGH drivers are easily recognizable
because of their white Guayavera shirts with an ACGH pin.

To get around the island you can arrange with your ACGH
driver to be picked up and driven around, or you can call
the ACGH when you need a car. Their telephone number is:

ACGH taxis
Tel: 222-0330

Nick’s Taxi Service
Tel: 257-7777

Cruises

Internet Service Providers:

Internet cafes:

Ayitiweb Cybercaf
20, Ave Lamartiniere
Port-au-Prince ht-6114 Haiti
Tel: (509) 244-3738
Email: jangari@ayitiweb.com

TelecyberCafe Services
39 Rue Cadet Jeremie/Avenue Christophe
Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Travel Agents and Bureaus:

Airline Companies:

HAITI INTERNATIONAL AIRLINE
Tel: (509)221-4025 / (509)221-4043 / (509)221-9110 /(509)221-9141

Haiti International Airport
Port-Au-Prince, Haiti
Tel: 509-250-2048
Fax: 305-513-5878

AIR GUADELOUPE/AIR FRANCE
222-0563

Banks:

Tourism info centers:

Embassy of the Republic of Haiti and Tourist Office
10 rue Theodule Ribot, BP275, Cedex 28, 75017 Paris, France
Tel: (1) 4763 4778. Fax: (1) 4227 0205.
E-mail: haiti01@francophonie.org
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 1000-1300 and 1400-1700; Fri 1000-1600.
Consulates in: Cayenne and Pointe-à-Pitre.

Tourists’attractions:

Cinema Capitol
53, rue Lamarre,
Petion Ville
Haiti
(509) 221-3820

Basch
Hotel El Rancho,
Petion-Ville
Haiti
(509) 257-2081

Cafe Cubano
29, Rue Lamarre
Haiti
(509) 257-8888

Sightseeing tours:

Rwustik Candles
Place Boyer, Petion Ville
Haiti
(509) 404-2924

Action Dancewear
452 N. Main Street
Haiti
(920) 232-4999

Au Coin des Artistes
59 Rue Panamericaine, Petion-Ville
Haiti
(509) 257-2400
]]> http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-important-addresses/feed/ 0 http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-things-to-do/ http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-things-to-do/#comments Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:40:49 +0000 Blogger http://www.ucaribbean.com/blog/?p=357 Sport & 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 Gonve is a popular location for fishing.

Spectator sports

Football is the favourite national sport, followed by basketball.

Other

There is a 9-hole golf course at the Ptionville 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.

Kaliko Dive Center
P.O. Box 85
Port-Au-Prince,
Haiti
Phone: (809) 712-6530

Summer Sunrise/Sunset: 5:13 AM to 6:29 PM

Winter Sunrise/Sunset: 6:19 AM to 5:18 PM

Average Temperature Summer: 83 degrees F

Average Temperature Winter: 77 degrees F

Average Rainfall: 50″

Rainiest Months: April-May/August-October

Water Temperature Summer: 83 degrees F

Water Temperature Winter: 78 degrees F

Average humidity: 90%

Dry Season: November-January

Hurricane season: June-November/August-September

By Taxi:

Port-au-Prince has a brilliant system of collective taxis called
publiques, which charge 10 gourdes a trip. They could be almost
any vehicle, but all have a red ribbon hanging from the front mirror.
A sharp pssst! usually stops them, and the driver decides if he or
she wants to take you. Don’t expect the most direct route to your
destination, as others in the car need to be catered to as well.

If you need to be picked up in Petionville, Nick’s Taxi Service,
Telephone 257-7777, is a quicker bet. Nick’s now has a new fleet
of double-cabin 4×4 pickup trucks that can go just about anywhere,
and are equipped with two-way radio, linking them to their central
dispatcher.

By Air:

There are two flights a day between Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haïtien on
Caribintair that will save you an arduous eight-hour drive. There are
also regular flights from Port-au-Prince to Hinche, Pignon and Dame Marie.

By Bus:

The cheapest way to get around Haiti is by bus, with fares ranging
from 1.00 to 7.00, depending on the distance travelled. There are
no timetables; buses leave the town’s specific departure point
(Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haïtien have several) when they are full.
The buses, generally either old US school buses or ornately decorated
tap-taps, can go places where you wouldn’t drive a 4×4 back home.
]]> http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-getting-around/feed/ 0 http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-getting-there/ http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-getting-there/#comments Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:28:00 +0000 Blogger http://www.ucaribbean.com/blog/?p=351 American Airlines http://www.aa.com/

Port-Au-Prince – The International Airport is located about 5 miles from the city. Taxi service is available.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

U.S. and Canadian citizens require a pass-
port or birth certificate.

AIRLINES

Air ALM: (800) 327-7230

Air Canada: (800) 776-3000

Air D’Hayti: (011-509) 246-2300

Air France: (800) 237-2747

Air Guadeloupe: (011-590) 82-47-00

Air Royal: (514) 858-6300

American Airlines: (800) 433-7300

American Eagle: (800) 433-7300

Canada 3000: (877) 658-3000

Caribintair: (011-509) 298-3040

Haiti International Airline: (011-509) 221-4025

Tropical Airways: (011-509) 298-3444
]]> http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-getting-there/feed/ 0 http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-faqs/ http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-faqs/#comments Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:19:08 +0000 Blogger http://www.ucaribbean.com/blog/?p=349 When is the best weather in Haiti?

Haiti is in the tropics and is very warm all year long. The average temperature
only varies by five degrees (Fahrenheit) from winter to summer. There are two
rainy seasons (spring and late fall) when it often rains in the afternoons. A
long-sleeved shirt or light sweater may be appreciated for cool nights during
the winter or at higher elevations.

Do I need a passport to visit Haiti?

Passport required. Visa not required for tourist/business stay of up to 90
days. For further information, consult: Embassy of Haiti, 2311 Mass. Ave.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/332-4090) or nearest Consulate: FL
(305/859-2003), MA (617/266-3660), NY (212/697-9767), PR (809/764-1392),
or IL (312/922-4004). Internet: http://www.haiti.org or http://www.haiti.org/embassy/

Is the water safe to drink?

Do not drink the tap water, shower water, or faucet water. Stick with bottled water,
although you can also use boiled water for drinking, brushing your teeth and making ice.
Avoid dairy products as they are not pasteurised. Fruit and vegetables should be
peeled before consumption.

Do I need electrical adaptors for my hairdryer/radio etc?

120 volts, but we only occasionally have electricity. Mostly we use kerosene to light
our lamps.

Should I exchange my money for local currency?

Gourde = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of Gourde500, 250, 100, 50,
25, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of Gourde5 and 1, and 50, 20, 10
and 5 centimes. US currency also circulates.

Currency exchange:
US Dollars are accepted and exchanged everywhere. Other foreign currencies are
accepted for exchange only by some banks.

Currency restrictions:
There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign or local currency.
However, amounts in excess of Gourde 200,000 or equivalent must be declared.

Are there any airport fees?

Haiti has a $30.00 (US) dollar “Return Tax” that is required to be paid prior
to departing the country. The overall fee for the group trips covers the departure
fee.

US$ 35 + Gde10 (Gourde). Transit passengers and children under 2 years of age are
exempt. Extra charges may be levied without notice – you are advised to retain a
little extra change.

What is the legal drinking/gambling age?

The legal drinking age on most islands is 18

Can I get married in Haiti?

Getting married in the country of Haiti has been made very simple and easy for
you to have the wedding of your dreams.

Requirements:

Notarized copies of Divorced Decree if divorced or Notarized copies of Death
Certificates. Birth certificate of each party that is getting married. A blood
test is required

Can I bring my pet to Haiti?

All pets are required to have a recent veterinarian’s clearance stating
that they have had a current rabies vaccination and are free from disease.
For further information, consult the General Services Office (GSO) before
shipping a pet. American Airlines does not exempt diplomats from the pet
embargo during the summer months and cats cannot be shipped to Port-au-
Prince during the period May 15 thru September 15.

What about fishing?

Fishing is also a crucial part of the local economy. The AFSC-Haiti project
continually works to make the existing fishing programs more effective. In
the past, AFSC has worked with fishermen’s groups on topics such as financial
planning, marketing, and essential skills such as reading, writing, and arithmetic.
AFSC has also provided the groups with important supplies such as nets, hooks,
nasse (bamboo fishing weirs), net floats, and rope for making nets.

Can I use a metal detector on the beaches?

There are no restrictions on the use of metal detectors.

Where are the “clothing optional” beaches?

Nude sunbathing is illegal and it is unacceptable to go topless.

What is there to see or do in Haiti?

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.

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.

Rwustik Candles
Address: Delmas 43 #3
City: Port-au-Prince , Departement: Ouest
Phone: (509) 404-2924
Fax: (509) 246-1479
E-Mail Address: rwustikcandles@yahoo.com

Chez Yvane
Address: 19 Blvd Harry Truman
City: Port-au-Prince , Departement: Ouest
Phone: (509) 222-0188

Table Ronde
Address: 7 Rue Capois
City: Port-au-Prince , Departement: Ouest
Phone: (509) 223-4660

Haiti is a great place, can I move there?

Americans living or traveling in Haiti are encouraged to register with the nearest
U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website,
https://travelregistration.state.gov , and to obtain updated information on travel
and security within Haiti.

The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located at 104, rue Oswald Durand,
Port-au-Prince. The telephone numbers are (509) 223-7011, 223-6440, 223-6443,
223-6421, 223-6426, 223-6424, 223-6407, 223-7008, 222-0200, the fax number is
(509) 223-9665, and the email address is acspap@hotmail.com. Hours are 7:30 am
to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Thursdays, 7:30 to 11:00 a.m.

The Consular Section is closed on U.S. and local holidays. The U.S. Embassy is located
at 5 Blvd. Harry Truman, Port-au-Prince; telephone (509) 222-0200, 222-0354, 223-0955
or 222-0269; fax (509) 223-1641. Internet: http://usembassy.state.gov/haiti/wwwhc00e.html.

Can I access the Internet from Haiti?

Internet cafes can be found in towns and cities. ISPs include Compa, Hintelfocus
and Netcom.

Internet Cafes:

Ayitiweb Cybercaf
20, Ave Lamartiniere
Port-au-Prince ht-6114 Haiti
Tel: (509) 244-3738
Email: jangari@ayitiweb.com

TelecyberCafe Services
39 Rue Cadet Jeremie/Avenue Christophe
Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Do you need a driving License?

You do not need to get a local driver’s permit to drive in Haiti: your US,
Canadian or European driver’s licence is fine. Driving is on the right.

Driving in Haiti must be undertaken with extreme caution. The situation on the roads
can be described as chaotic at best, and it is advisable for those with no knowledge
of Haitian roads and traffic customs to hire a driver through a local hotel.

Public transportation as it is usually defined does not exist in Haiti. While
Haitians use buses, “taptaps” and taxis, which may observe regular routes much
like public transportation, none of these should be considered reliable.

Emergencies Contact Information?

Haiti Emergency Contacts

(It is sometimes difficult to get through in Haiti due to the phone system.
Keep trying!)

US Consulate – 011-509-223-7011
011-509-223-8971
US Embassy – 011-509-222-0200
011-509-222-0368
011-509-222-0354
011-509-222-0612

Police – 114; Ambulance – 118.

What are the entry requirements in Haiti?

A valid passport with at least six months remaining validity is required for
American, British, and Canadian citizens. Visas are not currently required by
citizens of these countries but it is wise to check with your nearest Haitian
embassy prior to departure to ensure requirements have not changed. Nationals
of other countries may require visas. Consult your nearest Haitian consulate
or embassy.

Upon arrival you will be given a card, which you must keep and surrender to
Immigration on departure. Visitors entering via a land border crossing must
pay a US$20 entry fee in cash.

What is the language in Haiti?

Haitian Creole is the true national language of the Republic of Haiti. In addition
to seven million people in the homeland, it is spoken by about a million Haitians
living abroad. All Haitians speak the language, but a small minority of about 10%
of the population also speak French, which they have learned either at home or at
school. However, even Haitians who master French consider Haitian Creole, which
they use for most everyday communication, as the symbol of their national identity

What are the store hours in Haiti?

Bargaining is recommended at the Iron Market, where both good- and bad-quality
local items can be bought, including carvings, printed fabrics, leatherwork,
paintings (particularly in the naïf style, for which Haiti is famous), straw
hats, seed necklaces and jewellery, cigars and foodstuffs. Port-au-Prince has
a good selection of shops and boutiques selling a wide range of local and
imported items. Bargaining is an accepted practice. Shopping hours:
Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1300-1600, Sat 0800-1200.

What about tipping?

Most hotels and restaurants add a 10 per cent service charge. If service was above
average you may wish to tip more. Bar staff and porters expect tips, taxi drivers
do not.

Can you use credit cards?

American Express is widely accepted; Diners Club has more limited use. Check with
your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other
services which may be available.

Travellers cheques: Accepted by most major shops and banks. To avoid additional
exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in
US Dollars.

Is there a best time to visit the island?

It’s worth planning a visit to Haiti around Carnival (the three days leading up to
Ash Wednesday) or Rara (the week leading up to Easter), when music and dancing seem
to erupt spontaneously. Avoid the weeks leading up to an election, including the
presidential election in December 2000, when less pleasant but equally spontaneous
eruptions of passion tend to make their mark.

Is there an airport?

Maïs Gaté International Airport in Port-au-Prince; served by the following carriers:
ALM, Air Canada, Air France, American Airlines, COPA, Haiti Trans-Air, Halisa Air,
Air Jamaica

What about Taxes?

Most of the larger hotels charge a 10% sales tax, and many also tack on a daily
energy charge of US$3-5. Smaller hotels and guesthouses tend to offer an all-inclusive
price. A departure tax of US$25 (which must be paid in US dollars) plus 10 gourdes is
charged at the airport.

What about Banks?

Fonkoze – Haiti’s Alternative Bank for the Organized Poor – is the largest micro-finance
institution offering a full range of financial services to the rural-based poor in Haiti.
Fonkoze is a Haitian Creole acronym for Fondasyon Kole Zepòl, which means, “The Shoulder-
to-Shoulder Foundation”. The word itself conveys the meaning, “in the midst of sharing”.
Fonkoze’s mission is to build the economic foundations for democracy in Haiti.
Bank Hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1630. Some banks open in the afternoons and Sat 0900-1300.

Contact info:

Fonkoze: The Foundation

Anne H. Hastings, Director
Fonkoze
Avenue Jean Paul II, #7 (à l’interieur)
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Ph: (509) 221.7631, 7641, 513.7631
Fax: (509) 221.7520
Ph from the U.S. (800) 293.0308
director@fonkoze.org

Fonkoze Financial Services

Fonkoze Financial Services
Impasse Giraud, #6,
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Ph: (509) 513.7641,211.1101
Fax: (509) 245.7254
SFF@fonkoze.org

What about Crime?

There are no “safe areas” in Haiti. Crime, already a problem, is growing. The
state of law and order is of increasing concern with reports of armed robberies
and break-ins, murders and car hijackings becoming more frequent. The police are
poorly equipped and unable to respond quickly to calls for assistance. Travelers
and residents should exercise caution throughout Haiti. They should keep valuables
well hidden, ensure valuables are not left in parked vehicles, favor private over
public transportation, alternate travel routes, and keep doors and windows in homes
and vehicles closed and locked.

Calling to and from Haiti?

IDD available. Country code: 509. There are no area codes. The internal service,
operated by Telecommunications d’Haïti (Teleco), is reasonable. There are telephone
booths in the towns which take cards.

Can I use my cellular telephone in Haiti?

The GSM network is run by Haïtel. Handsets can be hired locally.

What is the Dress code in Haiti?

Dress in Haiti is casual. Still, it is unacceptable to wear bathing suits,
short shorts, and short tank tops in public. Tropical lightweight clothing
is best. You may want to bring a light sweater/jacket for evenings. If you’re
going into the mountains bring rain gear and warmer clothing.
]]> http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/haiti-faqs/feed/ 0 http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/about-haiti/ http://ucaribbean.com/blog1/2008/12/26/about-haiti/#comments Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:11:16 +0000 Blogger http://www.ucaribbean.com/blog/?p=345 WHY HAITI?
Haiti’s terrain consists mainly of rugged mountains with small coastal plains and river valleys.

HISTORY:
The Arawak, the original inhabitants of the island Haiti shares with the Dominican Republic, called the island Ayti, meaning Iland of mountains. When he arrived in 1492, Christopher Columbus named the island La Isla Espa?? (Spanish for ?The Spanish Island?) in honor of his Spanish sponsors. The name later evolved into the modern name Hispaniola. After an early settlement near Cap-Ha?en was destroyed by Native Americans, the Spanish settled the eastern half of the island and left the west unsettled. French pirates operating from the island of Tortue hunted wild boar and other animals in Haiti to sell as food to passing ships. By 1697, when Spain formally ceded the western one-third of Hispaniola?the portion that later became Haiti?to France, the French had established a flourishing slave-plantation system throughout the colony. At the end of the next century, Saint-Domingue (the French colonial term for Haiti) was the world’s richest colony. The population at that time totaled more than 450,000 slaves, more than 25,000 free mulattoes, and about 30,000 French planters.

About 800 Haitian volunteers fought in the American Revolution (1775-1783) under French general Marquis de Lafayette and thereby gained some military experience. The French Revolution, which began in 1789, inspired the Haitian Slave Revolt of 1791. This rebellion was led by Toussaint-L’Ouverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, Henri Christophe, Alexandre Sab?P?on, and Jean-Pierre Boyer. By 1794 forces under Toussaint-L’Ouverture (today known as ?the Precursor?) had freed the colony’s slave population and rid it of its French and British presence. By 1801 Toussaint ruled the entire colony. Although Toussaint was captured by French forces in 1802 and died a prisoner in France, the rebellion he had fostered did not die. In 1804 Dessalines declared Haiti to be the world’s first black republic. Unfortunately, most of the country’s plantation infrastructure had been destroyed and all the experienced administrators had been eliminated.

In 1806 Dessalines was assassinated, and for some years thereafter the northern part of Haiti was held by Christophe. In the southern part of the island a republic was established by Pion. Upon the death of Christophe in 1820, Boyer, the successor to P?on, began to consolidate his power throughout the island. He succeeded in unifying Hispaniola under his rule in 1822. In 1844 the eastern two-thirds of the island declared its independence as the Republic of Santo Domingo, now the Dominican Republic.

The subsequent history of Haiti was characterized by a series of bitter struggles for political ascendancy between the blacks and the mulattoes. In 1849 a black man, Faustin ?ie Soulouque, proclaimed himself emperor as Faustin I, and for ten years he ruled in a despotic manner. In early 1859, the mulatto Nicholas Fabre Geffrard restored republican government; he remained in office until 1867.

Christopher Columbus lands and claims the island of Hispaniola for Spain. The Spanish build the New World’s first settlement at La Navidad on Haiti’s north coast.

During the rest of the 19th century, Haiti was under the control of a succession of dictators, none of whom had the wherewithal to resolve the conflict between the country’s two main ethnic groups: the mulattos, who held political power, and the blacks. Early in the 20th century, the US took control of Haiti, sending troops in at one stage to support the regime. After 30 years as a US protectorate, Haiti was returned to local rule after World War II.

Haiti is formally governed according to the terms of the Constitution promulgated in 1987 which allows for an executive president and a bicameral legislature (an 83-member Chamber of Deputies and 27-member Senate). The President is elected by popular vote every five years. The Chamber of Deputies is elected every four years; and the Senate every six years. The Constitution was restored in September 1994 after a three-year interruption following a military coup.

A third migration, from Venezuela, swept through the Antilles about 2000 years ago, and by AD 700 occupied Haiti and most of the surrounding islands. They called themselves the Taino (friendly people), and an estimated 400,000 of them lived on Hispanola when Italian adventurer Christopher Columbus got off the ship to greet them. Folks on another island had told Columbus that there was gold to be found there, and the anxious Italian set off in the night to find it. Although most Tainos died during the next 25 years at the hands of Spanish slave drivers (or Spanish viruses), their contributions to the world – barbecue, tobacco, canoe and hammock are all Taino words – live on.

By 1519, the gold mines were empty and the Tainos all but extinct, so the Spanish imported African slaves and grew sugarcane. As the 1600s began, the Spanish citizens on the western end of Hispaniola traded illegally with the French. The troops were sent in and those treasonous areas depopulated. The French traders moved into the empty towns, further frustrating Spain’s ambitions.

PEOPLE / CULTURE:
Nearly all of Haiti’s population are of African origin; mulattoes account for most of the remainder, and there are a few people of European descent. Haiti has differentiated itself ethnically, linguistically, and culturally from other Caribbean and Latin American countries, notably the Spanish-speaking nations of the region.