TRAVEL UPDATE: Visit Haiti from Home

Hotels

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 art and folklore, 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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cosmogram being traces on floor with hand holding a candle

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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old colonial houses on city street in jacmel

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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La Réserve Hôtel

hotel with trees and palms
La Réserve Hôtel in Pétion-Ville
Photo: La Réserve

Make La Réserve your home as you prepare to explore the city of Port-au-Prince. Indulge in this cozy spot made for those who want to hang out but also don’t mind exploring the country.

First impressions

Small but quaint, La Reserve is a great spot for the adventurous traveller; one who likes to equally split their time between the city and the bar. It’s located in a secluded corner of Pétion-Ville at one of the entrances of the quiet neighborhood of Berthé. Whether you choose to go enjoy the chilly mountains of Kenscoff or explore Port-au-Prince, La Réserve offers the perfect space to take a break from it all. Once checked-in, visitors will notice that while La Reserve is a small hotel, it offers the benefit of quiet, private, but also personable services.

Rooms

La Réserve is all-things Haitian. From its architecture to its decor, the owners of the hotel made sure that it embodied the essence of Haitian culture. All its rooms are equipped with a TV, A/C and internet access and are each decorated with Haitian art accent pieces reflecting the calm, tropical theme of this hotel.

What’s for breakfast?

Besides its beautiful garden, La Réserve’s main point of attraction is its exquisite food. Every guest can indulge in the breakfast buffet which includes your typical breakfast staples like omelets or french toast, but the hotel’s restaurant also serves as a great introduction to typical haitian breakfasts, so if you’re ever in the mood to explore, make sure to check-out the daily breakfast bar.

How about lunch and dinner?

If it wasn’t already clear, La Réserve is known nationally as one of the best places to get Haitian food. The restaurant regularly hosts brunch on Sundays but offers daily choices for Haitian staples, whether you decide to go with a customer-acclaimed plate of griot or an incredible Goat with Rum stew, La Réserve is the place to be.

Is there a bar?

The hotel strives to modernize its cuisine and excels particularly in the drinks department. La Réserve has a set of trademark drinks available but also offers a series of cocktails made with freshly pressed juice. Make sure to enjoy a drink in the sports lounge or by the pool table where soccer games are often streamed on the big screen, making La Réserve the hub for sports events as well.

Activities and amenities

La Réserve is often home to a series of cultural and musical events. It’s known for hosting events during the PAPJazz Festival and is the venue of choice for local artists’ events. After a day of exploring, you have the option to offer yourself one of many types of massages available to guests; you can also use their on-site gym or get a mani-pedi in before heading out.

Within a short walk you can find…

La Réserve’s location is one of the most convenient as it’s located in a secluded area dense with greenery but it’s also literally steps away from Petion-Ville and Montagne Noire, a road carved into a mountain giving access to the beautiful areas of Kenscoff, Thomassin, and Laboule. Travellers often find themselves discovering this part of the country, whether it’s through a hike for the scenic and green view or for the hidden waterfall of Fermathe. La Réserve is also really close to Place Saint Pierre and Place Boyer where you can either hang out, try out some fritay (Haitian street food), or simply go to a cafe or restaurant.

Need to know (before you go)

La Réserve is also one of the main spots for sports broadcasting in the city so if you are travelling during a particularly intense soccer season, expect the place to be a little crowded. Unfortunately pets are not allowed at the hotel.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit the La Réserve Hôtel on Hotels.com


La Réserve Hôtel

4.0 on TripAdvisor
3 Star Hotel
+509 29 40 0190
Free parking, Concierge, Free WiFi, Breakfast included
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Marriott Hotel

hotel pool area with palm trees
Pool area at the Marriott Hotel in Turgeau, Port-au-Prince
Photo: Anton Lau

Marriott Hotel

Slow down to island time at the modern oasis of the Marriott Hotel, nestled in the central Port-au-Prince suburb of Turgeau.

First impressions

In the busy metropolitan area of Turgeau, the Marriott Hotel is a jewel of comfort and modernity, set amidst busy streets peppered street food vendors, art sellers and taxi drivers. Next to the Digicel headquarters, the Marriott’s tall front doors open onto a large lobby decorated with pops of color and an exquisite blend of contemporary and traditional Haitian art.

Rooms

Even on the small island of Haiti, accommodations at the Marriott Hotel are of a world-class level. Rooms are bright, spacious, and comfortable, and a small welcoming note personalizes the whole experience. Air conditioning and large beds are an advantage in the sultry Caribbean summer. Modern comforts of home – wherever that is for you – such as cable television, clothing irons and hair dryers, are readily available.

What’s for breakfast?

In a hurry out of the Marriott on your way to a guided tour or a local event? Fear not! You’ll have time to grab a quick breakfast bite at Café Cho, the hotel’s own café. Café Cho’s menu features delicious and filling on-the-go options such as chicken patties, egg sandwiches, yogurt and granola, or muffins. If you have more time on your hands, though, La Sirène has an amazing breakfast menu on weekdays, and a spectacular brunch starring fresh seasonal produce on weekends, good enough to pull in non-guests from all around the city.

How about lunch and dinner?

La Sirène is the Marriott’s star-studded restaurant. The menu serves up fresh local ingredients heightened with elements from all around the world, and the hotel’s Burger Week award-winning burger is often requested. You’ll find soups and salads, as well as hearty dishes featuring local mushrooms, red-sauce chicken, and fried appetizers to suit your every fancy – all of it in the hotel’s sleek interior, or outside in the warm summer air by the pool.

Is there a bar?

The selection of drinks at the bar – indoor or poolside – is expansive enough to satisfy even the most discerning of drinkers. From signature liquors to refreshing cocktails to local beers, La Sirène has something for everyone. If alcohol is not your cup of tea, the restaurant also offers a seasonal selection of natural, refreshing, made-to-order juices.

Activities and amenities

Marriot guests can enjoy the hotel’s pool and fitness center. If you’re travelling for business, spacious and modular conference and work rooms allow for comfortable work meetings.

Within a short walk you can find…

The Marriott is a door wide open on downtown Port-au-Prince’s culinary scene, and the options for adventure are boundless. Try fresh takes on typically Haitian dishes at Tchaka Bar or at Café Tap-Tap, or get to know local-favored spots like Oli’s and Piment Rouge!

Need to know (before you go)

A Sogebank ATM is available inside the hotel. Parking at the Marriott isn’t always easy, so visitors might have to park on the street. If you’re on foot, however, public transport is extremely accessible.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit the Marriot Hotel on Hotels.com


Marriott Hotel

4.5 on TripAdvisor
4 Star Hotel
+509 28 14 2800
Pool, Fitness Center & Gym, Pet Friendly, Free parking, Room service, Breakfast included
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