TRAVEL UPDATE: Visit Haiti from Home

Accommodation

Hotel Villa Thérèse

morning light on hotel with pool in port-au-prince
Pool area at Hotel Villa Thérèse, Pétion-Ville
Photo: Anton Lau

Hotel Villa Thérèse

Experience the luxury of a tropical staycation right in the middle of Pétion-Ville when you stay at Hotel Villa Thérèse.

First Impressions

At Hotel Villa Thérèse, the experience of a relaxing, tropical vacation comes true. Tucked away in the busy city of Pétion-Ville, this boutique hotel provides a well-needed oasis of peace and quiet. The homely, cream building seems to be tucked between tufts of trees; greenery climbs on and over some of the walls. The sound of the pool’s waterfalls sings a welcome song that is amplified from the reception hall to visitors’ personal sanctuary rooms.

Rooms

A quaint boutique hotel, Hotel Villa Thérèse houses a total of 23 units. Visitors have the choice between standard rooms, suites, or an apartment. Featuring wooden ceilings, all of the rooms are equipped with air conditioning and a private balcony overlooking the hotel’s private gardens. Two of its suites benefit from a view of the nearby mountains, and beautiful sunsets, every evening.

What’s for breakfast?

Hotel Villa Thérèse offers the standard continental breakfast, with options such as eggs, fresh local fruit, and baked goods. While this may be a fine option, most visitors tend to gravitate towards the hotel’s menu of local breakfast options like spaghetti, polenta and greens, and prepared liver.

How about lunch and dinner?

When lunch or dinner time rolls around, visitors can choose to eat from two different menus. Regulars rave about Hotel Villa Thérèse’s cheeseburger and lamb chop. The Lakay platter, an assortment of pork, goat, conch, fried plantain, and cassava fritters, is the absolute best foray into Haitian cuisine. If you have the chance to spend a Sunday on the island, you will want to get acquainted with their spit-roast pork.

Is there a bar?

The hotel also houses a small bar that seats 12, with a large wooden terrace overlooking the cascading pool. Their specialty is the Villa Thérèse cocktail, which is rum and fruit-based. It’s very difficult to have just one!

Activities and amenities

Hotel Villa Thérèse is a partner of GG Spa, who provides visitors and patrons of the hotel with massage services either in one of the rooms, or poolside. The hotel offers free WiFi to its clients.

Within a short walk you can find…

There are many restaurants not too far away from the hotel, as well as art galleries — less than 5 minutes away! Place Boyer and Place Saint-Pierre are also less than 5 minutes away. Should visitors be looking for some fresh air, the Boutilier observatory is 20 minutes away.

Need to know (before you go)

The hotel offers a paid transportation service with a personal driver, in an armored car. Laundry is also available, with clothing returned the very same day. Unfortunately, the hotel does not allow pets.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Hotel Villa Thérèse on Hotels.com


Hotel Villa Thérèse

4.5 on TripAdvisor
3 Star Hotel
+509 28 16 2524
Pool, Free parking, Airport transportation, Free High Speed Internet, Breakfast included
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Hotel Cyvadier Plage

hotel pool with palm trees and sea view
Pool area at Hotel Cyvadier Plage
Photo: Hotel Cyvadier Plage

Hotel Cyvadier Plage

A few minutes outside the city of Jacmel, Cyvadier Hotel is the perfect seaside escape for the nature lover in all of us.

First Impressions

Among all the cities of Haiti, the city of Jacmel is recognized for its hospitality and as being a haven of peace. For a good stay, the Cyvadier Hotel offers modern comfort in a prime location. The hotel’s seafront access is ideal if you are looking for a picture-perfecr tropical vacation without the typical busyness of the Arcadins’ coast.

Rooms

The Cyvadier Hotel is a charming small hotel which has 28 tastefully furnished rooms that embellish a rustic, Caribbean style with modern accents; some have a terrace which offers a beautiful view where you can bask in watching the sunset facing the sea. The whole establishment has access to WiFi.

What’s for breakfast?

Breakfast is served every day at the Cyvadier Hotel, and includes all of the standard stops of a Haitian breakfast. From fresh, seasonal fruit, to eggs, baked goods, and freshly brewed coffee and steeped tea, it can all be enjoyed by the sea, or in your room, on request – it’s entirely up to you.

How about lunch and dinner?

The restaurant at the Cyvadier Hotel benefits from being a seaside one: fresh seafood is served there every day! From lobster to grilled fish, the menu is an ode to the bevy of creatures that grace the sea. Standard Haitian cuisine is also hard-and-fast on this menu; you’ll find staples like conch and roasted chicken, as well as the delicacy that is Haitian pain patate – a sweet potato dessert.

Is there a bar?

Lounge around by the pool and take in the view as you sip away from the hotel’s restaurant drinks’ menu which also covers wines, champagnes, liquors, local beers, and cocktails made to order.

Activities and amenities

You’ll want to make a stop at the Cyvadier massage parlor, where for an hour or two, you can experience hot rock massages, deep tissue massages, and even a detox cleanse during your stay. If an adventure is what excites you, take advantage of Cyvadier Hotel’s boat excursions and paddle boarding.

Within a short walk you can find…

To hit the beach, the choices are nearly endless; you can either choose the private beach of the Cyvadier Hotel or the beach at Raymond-les-Bains (for a small visitors’ fee), where you will find charming seafood merchants. At Timouyaj Beach, big waves invite you to surf and the sand invites you to relax.

Need to know (before you go)

For those who are more attracted by the walks and the visits, Jacmel is very close, the mountains are accessible, and the sea is nearby. The city invites you to discover craftsmen and charming streets where art is always present and in an extraordinary profusion.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Cyvadier Hotel on Hotels.com


Hotel Cyvadier Plage

4.5 on TripAdvisor
3 Star Hotel
+509 38 44 8264
Private beach, Pool, Free WiFi, Breakfast included, Ocean View

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Kinam Hotel

nighttime view of large hotel in port-au-prince
Kinam Hotel, Pétion-Ville
Photo: Kinam Hotel

Kinam Hotel

Experience the best of both worlds: old-school Haitian gingerbread charm, and modern comfort and luxury in the heart of Pétion-Ville, at the Kinam Hotel.

First Impressions

Located in the center of Pétion-Ville, at the feet of Port-au-Prince’s hills and overlooking its bay, the very luxurious and pleasant Kinam Hotel allows a peaceful stay. Located in an upscale neighborhood in the bustling city, the Kinam Hotel draws up its elegant silhouette to welcome you and allow you to experience a stay that you will never forget because the setting is idyllic, the service charming, and the atmosphere relaxing.

Rooms

The Kinam Hotel holds 118 rooms, 33 vintage ones in the original gingerbread building, and 85 more in the most recent construction. Featuring sleek, modern design elements, tropical decor accents turn the rooms into relaxation oases. The rooms are all soundproofed to allow you a restful sleep and all have a very charming small living room and a balcony to bask in peace while admiring the sunset that is always offered by the good climate of Haiti.

What’s for breakfast?

Not in a rush? Sit at the Terrace Restaurant overlooking the pool for a hotel breakfast that will both seem familiar and surprise you. Need to rush out to a guided visit, or just getting ready for a day of exploring? Stop by the Wide Awake Café and grab a healthy, delicious breakfast option to-go. International and local dishes are available in both places to help you break your fast in the most delicious ways.

How about lunch and dinner?

The Terrace Restaurant also offers a lunch and dinner menu, but the Kinam Hotel doesn’t stop there! Come down to the Rond Point Restaurant for a dreamy experience of Haitian cuisine. Featuring daily soup, as well as the Haitian staple that is soup joumou, grilled and stewed meats, and succulent seafood, the menu there is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Is there a bar?

The Tipsy Lounge is the place to go for afternoon, evening, or late night drinks. The gently dimmed light, savvy music, and polished decor of the space is the perfect setting for scrumptious tapas and signature drinks, available until 11 PM on weekdays, and midnight on weekends.

Activities and amenities

Take a lift to the hotel’s 5th floor to access its modern 24/7 fitness center; while you’re at the hotel, take advantage of its shopping boutiques and barber shop. After taking a dip in the hotel’s pool, offer yourself a most relaxing moment of self-care at the Botanik Spa – located inside the Karibe Hotel – for a deeply relieving massage.

Within a short walk you can find…

Several art galleries can be found near the hotel: the Nader gallery and Galerie Monnin are both 5 to 7 minutes away on foot, and if you are able to drive, the Jane Barbancourt castle is about 3 miles away. The Kinam Hotel is located opposite the very famous Place Saint-Pierre and the Saint-Pierre church; afternoon walks are recommended to visit the place. Its positioning allows you to continue the walk to Place Boyer, located about a quarter mile from the hotel.

Need to know (before you go)

The hotel offers a private shuttle to and from the Toussaint Louverture International Airport to customers, as long as a reservation is made at least 24 hours prior. Towels are available at the pool upon request, and the Wide Awake Café provides vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Kinam Hotel on Hotels.com


Hotel Oloffson

4.0 on TripAdvisor
3 Star Hotel
+509 28 15 8000
Pool, Fitness Center & Gym, Free airport transportation, Breakfast included, Free parking
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Hôtel Roi Christophe

evening view of hotel restaurant
Hôtel Roi Christophe in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Hôtel Roi Christophe

Hôtel Roi Christophe

In the middle of the bustling city of Cap-Haïtien, Hotel Roi Christophe offers a tropical oasis that delivers on culture and delights the senses.

First Impressions

The city of Cap-Haïtien, in the north of Haiti, is home to the Roi Christophe Hotel. The hotel carries the name of the city’s founding father, independence hero, and first king of Haiti’s history. In a Creole style that gives free rein to Haitian folklore and art, the hotel opens on a magnificent little terrace with canopy chairs. A small indoor garden shadowed by nearby mango and banana trees surrounds the terrace, making for an already very relaxing sight.

Rooms

When it comes to the rooms, the showcase of exotic and Creole artworks does not compromise on any of modernity’s comforts. Spacious, and pleasantly decorated, they are reminiscent of the interiors of medieval bedrooms. Each bedroom seems to have its own identity; all while respecting a decor guideline with paintings and local furniture, each one radiates its own ambiance.

What’s for breakfast?

Visitors of the Roi Christophe hotel can wake up and enjoy different breakfast options. If you are about to run out into the city for a day of exploring, the continental breakfast is a quick and easy choice. Those staying at the Roi Christophe with children will appreciate the breakfast buffet, with something for everyone. The à-la-carte breakfast options are perfect for people staying in on a weekend, or relaxing between adventures.

How about lunch and dinner?

The hotel’s setting is perfect for small walks during sunset, or appetizers with friends before dinner. In any case, the setting is also very enjoyable, with very little outside noise to take advantage of every moment. If you are a foodie, the Roi Christophe’s cooking will enchant you with traditional dishes like grilled fish, conch, or lobster,— grilled or stewed, with Creole rice so good you’ll lick your fingers.

Is there a bar?

The hotel’s Bar du Roi is open from 6 PM until 11 PM. Close your eyes, and you can probably already see yourself enjoying the signature house rum punch by the pool, on the breezy terrace, or around a lively game of pool!

Activities and amenities

The Roi Christophe hotel houses a beautiful outdoor pool, nestled between all of the property’s trees. Next to the pool is a gorgeous exterior terrasse surrounded by greenery. It faces the charming Bar du Roi. Right next to the pool, it’s possible to enjoy a cocktail made with the fruits harvested on the property.

Within a short walk you can find…

Staying at the Roi Christophe is also a way to learn more about this king that has made, for over 200 years, the pride of an entire people and who has built great vestiges like the Citadelle, and the Sans-Souci palace. Thanks to its closeness to the Boulevard, which is chock-full of restaurant options, it’s also a way to immerse yourself in the Cap-Haitian life and to take advantage of its cuisine, and of this city that doesn’t stop attracting both Haitian and foreign tourists.

Need to know (before you go)

If you are traveling with children, you might want to be careful when it comes to letting them near or in the pool; the shallow end clocks in at 4 feet, and might not be suitable for the youngest ones who don’t know how to swim!

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Hôtel Roi Christophe on Hotels.com


Hôtel Roi Christophe

3.5 on TripAdvisor
3 Star Hotel
+509 36 87 8915
Pool, Room service, Free WiFi, Breakfast included
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Hôtel Montana

hotel pool area with lush garden
Pool area at Hôtel Montana, Bourdon
Photo: Hôtel Montana

Hôtel Montana

Live lavishly when you stay at Hotel Montana. A perfect getaway for the adventurous couple or the group of friends, everything you need awaits at one of the most modern yet traditional Haitian hotels.

First Impressions

A luxurious escape is what you’ll find at Hotel Montana. Located in the area of Bourdon, this hotel offers one of the most beautiful views of the city while being relatively close to all the interesting and lively spots in the capital. A modern yet comfortable feel has been a signature style for Hotel Montana since 1947. The owners take pride in their newly built memorial garden, honoring the victims of the 2010 earthquake and their 150-year old mahogany tree by the pool. Take it upon yourself to relax by the quiet pool area or enjoy picture-perfect moments by the bar while you enjoy a sweet tropical drink.

Rooms

Totaling 63 rooms, Hotel Montana is equipped with 47 regular rooms and 16 suites. All of the accommodations have A/C, free WiFi, and are all decorated with authentic Haitian art and accessories. If you are planning to “live lavish,” regardless of how long your stay will be, Hotel Montana’s suites all have their own kitchenette or kitchen and have a private balcony or terrace. The touches of color in this modern, renovated space make Hotel Montana perfect for those looking for a destination that is easy on the eyes. The hotel also aims to be eco-friendly through their initiatives and partnerships pushing for the use of recycled materials whether in their soaps, towels, linens, or plastic containers.

What’s for breakfast?

Acajou is the hotel’s restaurant and it offers a complimentary breakfast buffet. There, you will find a variety of options both local and international, ranging from eggs and pancake stations to warm traditional Haitian breakfast options, Acajou is sure to satisfy your cravings whether you’re sleeping in or waking up after a night out.

How about lunch and dinner?

Acajou offers an à-la-carte menu, through which the restaurant’s chefs excel at providing a transformative culinary experience all while highlighting the traditional flavors of Haiti. One of its staple dishes is the Lambi Creole (Creole conch) which offers both newcomers and locals a one-of-a-kind taste in every bite. Acajou’s location is complete with its view of downtown Port-au-Prince which lights up in the evening. Whether you’re looking for a light salad for lunch or to eat up before going on your next adventure, Acajou has it all.

And if you’re not up to eat out on a given night, Acajou offers a few events as well:

  • Thursday Carribean Nights (6:30pm – 10:30pm): Local bands and Caribbean specialities
  • Friday Salsa Nights (11:00pm – 1:00 am)
  • Sunday Creole Dinner Buffet (6:30pm to 10:30pm): Haitian traditional dishes

Is there a bar?

A scenery like Hotel Montana’s wouldn’t be complete without a set of beautiful tropical cocktails or the famous Prestige beer– all available at the bar or to be ordered as you sit by the pool.

Activities and amenities

Hotel Montana offers a well-rounded set of amenities which include complimentary free WiFi but also a fitness center, laundry services if needed, an exotic and quiet pool area, a tennis court available for hour long bookings, and regular on-site yoga classes with resident instructor, Danielle Deslume (check out her Instagram profile, here!).

Within a short walk you can find…

Hotel Montana is located just outside of Pétion-Ville, a hub for trendy restaurants and shops, but it’s also a 20-minute drive to downtown Port-au-Prince, where one can venture for more historical sights and even stop by the MUPANAH or the Champs-de-Mars, where the national carnival annually takes place.

Need to know (before you go)

The hotel offers onsite laundry services, for those visiting Haiti for an extended period. There is no minimum stay requirement – you can stay for as little as one night – and should you be in need, you can get your currency exchanged at the front desk.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Hôtel Montana on Hotels.com


Hôtel Montana

4.5 on TripAdvisor
4 Star Hotel
+509 29 42 6667
Pool, Fitness Center & Gym, Tennis court, Breakfast included, Free High Speed Internet
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Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort

beach resort with pool, palm trees, lounge chairs and sea
View of the pool at Decameron Indigo Beach Resort
Photo: Decameron Indigo Beach Resort

Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort

Decameron Indigo Beach Resort offers an all-inclusive experience that will shoot above and beyond your expectations. Book your stay soon for a time full of adventure and relaxation.

First Impressions

Decameron Indigo Beach Resort is by far the biggest beach resort in Haiti. With its all-inclusive package and its one-and-a-quarter mile of dreamy white sandy beaches, Decameron is an ideal introduction to what the beauty of beaching in Haiti truly is.

Rooms

Decameron is equipped with 400 Caribbean-style rooms with views of the beach, the gardens, or the pool – your choice. All rooms are air-conditioned and designed to as the perfect relaxing hideaway, while bringing small pieces of Haitian urban life into the room. All rooms open out onto either a terrace or balcony, bridging the gap between the comfort of your bed and the sounds of the Haitian waves.

What’s for breakfast?

Although Indigo Beach has three different restaurants, breakfast is served at Le Grand Marché, located in the main area by the pool. With its options of both self-serve and made-to-order stations, the buffet-style breakfast and overall service of this restaurant is the highlight for many. While you will most definitely be exposed to staple American-style fare, we suggest trying or asking about what the Haitian options are on the day!

How about lunch and dinner?

Indigo Beach’s three different restaurants offer three different dining experiences. Le Grand Marché, the main restaurant open to all, offers breakfast as well as lunch and dinner, respectively starting at noon and 7 PM.
 
Le Boucanier is the second restaurant, located in the northern portion of the resort – an à-la-carte restaurant, it specializes in seafood and often requires a reservation, though this depends on the flow of guests at the resort that day. It is open from 7 PM until 10 PM.
 
Last but not least is La Casserole Haitienne. The name speaks for itself – if the goal of your trip is to have a taste of Haiti without necessarily leaving the resort, look no further! Open between 7 and 10 PM for dinner, this is an à-la-carte restaurant, and while it might require a reservation, you’ll have the chance to sample different traditional Haitian dishes stemming from all parts of the country. La Casserole Haitienne also operates a snack bar until 2 in the morning, meaning that you can stop by into the early hours for a quick plate of fried plantains and delicious creole conch!

Is there a bar?

With all these options for food, Indigo Beach surpasses itself when it comes to drinks.

The resort has a grand total of four bars, one located in Le Boucanier, the other at La Casserole Haitienne, and the last two, Bon Bagay Bar and Chiringuito Bar, operate as stand-alone bars. The last two are conveniently located by the central and southern pool respectively so you are always able to enjoy a drink as you read a book or scroll on Instagram by one of these very impressive pools!

From 11 PM to 2 AM, Decameron keeps the beach nightlife alive with all the music hits at its discothèque.

Activities and amenities

Decameron greatly compensates the fact that it is so far from the city, offering clientele a bounty of amenities and activities. As an all-inclusive resort, any person staying has access to the two recently-renovated pools, a fitness center, a boutique for last-minute bikini shopping, and a variety of sports ranges and courts (soccer, basketball, tennis, etc.).

The resort also has access to special marine areas and instructors for snorkelling, diving and more, and even organizes a variety of excursions to nearby attractions. Lastly, the hotel often closes its nights with show-stopping performances, varying from dance acts to comedy shows.

Within a short walk you can find…

Located in Montrouis, where visitors can experience the local delicacy that is lalo, or hike to Kay Piat. the resort is pretty far away from big cities, but make sure to check out their excursion services to discover hidden islands and precious gems of Haiti!

Need to know (before you go)

A few things to note are that unfortunately, Wi-Fi is only available in the rooms for a daily $20 fee and pets are not allowed. For an additional cost, the resort offers transport from and to the airport via their shuttle bus which runs 24/7.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Decameron Indigo Beach Resort on Hotels.com


Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort

4.0 on TripAdvisor
4 Star Hotel
+509 28 15 0111
Beach, Pool, Family Friendly, Tennis court, Fitness Center & Gym, Breakfast included
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