Port-au-Prince

Marriott Hotel

April 19, 2020 by admin

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

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NH Haiti El Rancho

April 11, 2020 by admin

haitian hotel with pool area and palm trees — El Rancho Hotel, Pétion-Ville
Photo: Anton Lau

NH Haiti El Rancho

Sail into your tropical oasis when you stay at El Rancho, a haven located between the hip neighborhood of Pétion-Ville and the historic center of Port-au-Prince.

First Impressions

A true escape from the buzz of Pétion-Ville, El Rancho is the perfect hotel for the traveler who wants to both explore and rest. A landmark of Haitian hospitality, this 5-star hotel will provide you with the calmest sanctuary in the middle of the most convenient area of Port-au-Prince. Enjoy what many call the best mojito in Haiti by the pool, or indulge in classic Haitian and international cuisine served in a buffet, every day. Home to many iconic visits, ranging from well-known international singers to world leaders, El Rancho can be considered one of the oldest and most sophisticated hotels of Port-au-Prince. With its hints at gingerbread architecture, El Rancho exudes an aura of calmness and relaxation; the palm trees scattered all over its terrace are a constant reminder to those staying that they are now living on island time.

Rooms

El Rancho has 72 air-conditioned rooms: standard, superior, and premium rooms, as well as junior, regular, and terrace suites. They each offer their own perks and enhance the sanctuary experience you seek at El Rancho while providing you with a breathtaking view of the pool, the relaxing palm trees on the Piazza Terrace, or of the mountains.

What’s for breakfast?

An early-bird breakfast is provided from 5:30 to 6:30 AM for those off to a day of exploration, and it’s followed by a regular breakfast until 10 AM. Although the items on the menu are quite standard — we’re talking omelets, french toast, or other staple continental breakfast items, it’s possible to ask for a made-to-order dish.Every Sunday, the hotel also offers brunch from 10 AM to 3 PM for the perfectly wrapped up weekend!

How about lunch and dinner?

The hotel’s restaurant called Fusion Restaurant offers a variety of international and local dishes depending on the day. Foodies will be glad to learn that it’s served buffet-style from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, meaning there’s always the option to come back for seconds! Those staying at El Rancho may opt to dine in the privacy of their room by requesting for room service to be brought directly to them.

Is there a bar?

We say this with as much confidence as we can, but the only way to truly be sure is to test it for yourself: El Rancho has one of the best Mojitos of the city. The hotel is also known for its Rum Sour. With a lobby bar conveniently located next to the pool and keen servers ready to take your drink order if you’re still sunbathing, they make for a relaxing experience. In addition, they have a separate bar located by the outdoor terrace. If staying at the hotel, you will find an abundance of choices whether in the mood for a classic or a drink with a tropical twist. Lastly, on Thursdays, the terrace comes alive as the hotel hosts its weekly Gin & Sushi night!

Activities and amenities

A variety of amenities come with a stay at El Rancho. With weather like Haiti’s, El Rancho’s pool is open every day. The hotel also hosts a fitness center, a sunroom, and a casino. It also offers accessible rooms and facilities.

Within a short walk you can find…

El Rancho is conveniently located at the rim of Petion-Ville with quick access to shopping centers and a few minutes away from both Place Boyer and Place Saint Pierre which are two peaceful parks full of art where locals like to go for a walk, exercise, or simply relax. The hotel is also located an hour from both the mountains uptown and the city downtown, which offers more of a historic feel of the city!

Need to know (before you go)

NH El Rancho does not charge patrons who bring guide dogs, but is otherwise a pet-free and smoke-free hotel. The hotel does not provide transport to or from the airport.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit NH Haiti El Rancho on Hotels.com

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Royal Oasis Hotel

March 10, 2020 by admin

Royal Oasis Hotel

Get the best out of your stay in Haiti at the Royal Oasis Hotel, a serene hideaway in the heart of Pétion-Ville that brings you closer to memorable experiences.

First Impressions

Located on rue Panaméricaine in Pétion-Ville, the Royal Oasis is a modern hotel that marries luxury and sophistication. Right at the junction of Pétion-Ville and Bourdon, Royal Oasis guests can enjoy the dense tropical canopy that the neighborhood of Bourdon is coveted for, just a short walk away from one of the capital’s most tourist-friendly suburbs, Pétion-Ville.

Rooms

128 comfortable and stylish rooms, all with air conditioning, soundproofing and internet access. Ranging from simple single bed rooms to luxurious suites, rooms at the Royal Oasis are decked out in turquoise, cream, and leafy green. Depending on the room you’re staying in, you’ll be able to enjoy a gorgeous view on the gardens, the pool, or the city.

What’s for breakfast?

Crack open your mornings at the Royal Oasis’ restaurant, La Villa. In a calm and lush setting in the heart of the hotel, La Villa offers your standard breakfast fare: pancakes and sausages, eggs and bacon, cereal, juice, and fresh fruit. Open every day from 7am to 11pm, La Villa serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.

How about lunch and dinner?

Grab an easy, delicious lunch at the Petit Gourmand café, where choices of salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and appetizers abound! It’s also a great spot to get your morning coffee before you hit the street, or a refreshing beer after a day of exploring in the city. For dinner, La Villa offers a delicious menu where you can try exciting local specialties like flavorful grilled conch.

Is there a bar?

Starting at 3pm, the Lobby Bar serves up global standards and local delicacies. With a beautiful view over the busy streets, it’s a great place to enjoy a shisha with friends or catch live sports on TV.

Activities and amenities

A fitness room is available, but the terrace with breathtaking views is the real drawcard here.

Within a short walk you can find…

Galerie Marassa and Galerie Monnin are both about eight minutes away on foot. Galerie Nader is eleven minutes away.

Need to know (before you go)

Public transport is available right outside the hotel: tap-taps and buses headed to downtown Port-au-Prince can be hailed as they drive past, and moto drivers wait at the gas station right across the street.

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Royal Oasis on Hotels.com

Looking for some cool things to do?

Where to go dancing in Port-au-Prince

March 1, 2020 by admin

crowd of people dancing with hands in the air during a concert — PAPJAZZ, Quisqueya University
Photo: PAPJAZZ / Roberto Stephenson

Where to go dancing in Port-au-Prince

Dance to your own beat

With the sun sinking into the horizon over Bay du Port-au-Prince, the capital’s plethora of excellent bars are prime territory for drinking – and dancing – like a local.

But where to start? That’s where we come in! For week-long opportunities of nights out dancing in Port-au-Prince, here are our top recommendations:

haitian dj performining in front of ecstatic crowd — Yanvalou, Pacot, Haiti
Photo: Yanvalou

01. Yanvalou, Pacot

Yanvalou is a staple in Haitian nightlife. Once a week, it turns into party city with some of the capital’s best and freshest DJs, often featured alongside a performing band like Akoustik or Pawòl Tanbou, both regulars on the stage here. There is a cover charge of 500 HTG (about 5 U.S. dollars), and the party starts at 9 PM. When: Thursdays!

haitian girl with long braids smiling in dancing crowd — Fubar, Pétion-Ville, Haiti
Photo: Fubar

02. Fubar, Pétion-Ville

If you are in Pétion-Ville, this club is the place to be. Fubar is where you’ll find the city’s best flashback night, spinning everything from dancehall to old-school hip-hop. It’s always a fun time, especially with a great group of people! P.S.: there’s no cover charge! When: Fridays!

A line of dancers perform at the carnival in Jacmel, Haiti — Carnival in Jacmel
Photo: Franck Fontain

03. Carnival!

Carnival isn’t a venue, it’s an event. Or a month? Or maybe the real spirit of Haiti, descending underground for 11 months every year. Carnival is the best time to be in Haiti if you want the country to show you a good time!

While it may seem daunting to join in as an outsider, it is anything but – from pre-carnival Sunday daytime activities, to day-long activities on Champ-de-Mars during carnival itself, everything about Carnival in Haiti is an invitation to get moving. We recommend going in a good group – and staying smart – as it’s a super-crowded event. If you’re in Port-au-Prince during Carnival, you won’t have to wait until sundown to get your groove one – there’s dancing all day long!

Note: Separate carnivals happen across the country on a staggered schedule, so if you can’t be in PAP for the capital city’s carnival, you might be able to make it to Jacmel Carnival instead. When: January to February!

people relaxing on a hotel rooftop terrace — Asu Rooftop Lounge, Juvénat, Haiti
Photo: Asu Rooftop Lounge

04. Asu Rooftop Lounge, Juvénat

The fashion crowd heads to Asu – a notch more sleek and sophisticated than other venues on this list. You’ll find this rooftop lounge above Karibe Hotel in Juvénat. Asu is the home of house music in Haiti, and you’ll hear everything from popular hits to underground cuts. Reservations are strongly recommended. When: Fridays and Saturdays!

haitian musician with guitar singing on stage with microphone — Presse Café, Pétion-Ville, Haiti
Photo: PAPJAZZ

05. Presse Café, Pétion-Ville

For those seeking a more traditional, authentic musical experience of Haiti during their stay here, we can’t recommend Presse Café strongly enough. With a cozy, intimate setting, Presse Café is the destination for all things compas/kompa – a distinctive Haitian musical thread that crystallised in the 1950s after the band Conjunto International popularised it in mainstream music. Haitian compas legend Dadou Pasquet holds a residency at Presse Café on Friday nights. When: Fridays!

06. Goose Bar, in Tabarre

Island vibes call the island tribe! If you are looking for a low-key place to relax, unwind, and have a good, wholesome time – head over to Goose Bar in Tabarre! They host a weekly reggae event with a DJ and host that is sure to take the edge off a tough day. When: Wednesdays!

07. Anti-Stress, Lalue

Marked only by a small sign invisible to the untrained eye, Anti-Stress is one of those places that always has something going on, all week long – great music, ice-cold beers, and even a pool, if you’re trying to refresh, too! When you need a guaranteed good time no matter when you drop by, go straight to Anti-Stress! When: All week long!

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published March 2020

Top things to see in Haiti

Meet the Locals: Travel Guide Ann-sophie Hamilton

January 10, 2020 by admin

portrait photo of young stylish haitian girl with long dreadlocks and red head scarf

Sustainable travel guide Ann-Sophie

“If you’re into nature and adventure, the hike to Seguin is a once in a lifetime experience”

Ann-Sophie Hamilton is one of the brightest Haitian voices on Instagram. Using visual storytelling, she takes her followers on adventures around Haiti, inviting us to fall in love with every facet of the island.

Based in Port-au-Prince, Ann-Sophie has established herself as a blogger, travel planner, business owner, and life coach. In 2015, she moved back to Haiti from Canada and launched her own sustainable tourism company, Mennen’m La Tours.

We asked Ann-Sophie to tell us all about her favourite places to visit in Haiti.

What’s the first thing we should try, do or see once we arrive in Haiti?

The first thing to do, of course, is to try the food. Good, authentic, Haitian food is a must!

The second thing, if you want to see a beautiful Haitian beach – which you most likely will, is to head to Bananier, without a doubt.

What is your favorite upscale place to eat? How about your favorite ordinary place to eat?

I have a few. I really like to eat at Le Florville. The food there is really good, and the view of the mountains is really nice. I like Portofino; it’s not really casual but not extremely fancy — somewhere in between. Quartier Latin is also a great place to grab a bite; I really love the décor. I really like eating at Haiku, as well.

Bacchus opens only late at night. It has the best goat and pork, and their fried plantains and spicy sauce are really nice. It’s a little place that you only know about if someone tells you about it. It’s clean and quite spacious.

Which city outside of Port-au-Prince is a must-see, and why?

Jacmel would be my must-see, because there’s so much to do. Each city is known for something. Petit-Goave is known for beaches. Nippes is the destination for waterfalls. Jacmel is a combination of many things: good food, good art, and they also have Bassin Bleu – which is a must visit.

Their beaches are really good for surfing, if you’re into that. In the outskirts of Jacmel, there are also a lot of plantations — awesome places to see.

What’s one place nature-lovers should absolutely see?

If you’re into nature and adventure, the hike to Seguin is a once in a lifetime experience – because some people only have the strength do it only once, but it’s so worth it! It’s a seven-hour hike from Furcy to Seguin, but when you get there, there’s a waterfall and a guest house with good food.

It’s a very challenging experience, but with a good group and healthy snacks, it’s definitely possible and an awesome attraction! Mennen’m La Tours can organize tours for people who already have a group and who would like to make it to Seguin!

Where should we go to get the best souvenirs and artworks?

In Port-au-Prince, I recommend Place St. Pierre in Pétion-Ville for paintings and other artworks, and Village de Noailles for iron artwork.

In Jacmel, there are plenty of little shops all over the city where you can get a variety of different artworks and souvenirs.

Interview by Kelly Paulemon.

Published January 2020

Explore Haiti’s Art & Culture

Your Ultimate Guide to Haitian Nightlife

January 4, 2020 by Editor

haitian nightclub with guests sitting at tables — The Backyard Petion-Ville
Photo: Franck Fontain

Where to Party: Your Guide to Haitian Nightlife

Want to party the night away, Haitian style?

You’ve walked through the busy streets of Port-au-Prince, treated your tastebuds to Creole street food, poked around the artist collectives and squeezed in a stroll through Champ-des-Mars. Now it’s time to party the night away, Haitian style.

Here are the best places to get a taste of Haitian nightlife, according to a local.

01. Fubar, Pétion-Ville

Ask anyone who’s a seasoned party-goer in Pétion-Ville, and “Fubar” comes up every single time. With events nearly every day of the week, it’s one of the most popular spots in the city. We recommend: their Flashback Friday parties. Normally 500 Haitian Gourdes, entry is free before 10pm.

02. Brasserie Quartier Latin, Pétion-Ville

03. Le Coin des Artistes – Vivano, Pétion-Ville

Port-au-Prince is famous for fresh seafood, and Le Coin des Artistes is one restaurant that always lives up to the reputation! Find all of your seafood favorites, with a side of live music, nearly every day of the week, right in the heart of Pétion-Vile. We recommend: their Jazz Thursdays.

Group eating dinner at Yanvalou in Pacot, Haiti — Yanvalou in Pacot
Photo: Anton Lau

04. Yanvalou, Pacot

If you’re looking for a night out dancing, go no further than Yanvalou. Located in downtown Port-au-Prince, this restaurant by day and nightclub by night is where many devout party-goers go to hit the dancefloor. It attracts a mix of locals and travellers. We recommend: their Live Groove Thursdays.

a restored old colonial house with many decorative details — Gingerbread Restaurant, Pacot
Photo: Anton Lau

05. Gingerbread, Pacot

Another lovely spot in Pacot, Gingerbread is famed for its delectable cuisine. If you are looking for an evening out in a stunning setting (without breaking the bank) this is the place to go! We recommend: their cocktails, and if you’re in the mood for a dollop of dessert, their Panna Cotta Creole.

haitian restaurant with many guests dining — Magdoos, Petion-Ville, Port-au-Prince
Photo: Franck Fontain

06. Magdoos, Pétion-Ville

A favorite among the younger crowd in Port-au-Prince, Magdoos is known for its great middle eastern food, hookahs, and great music. A good tip is to make sure that you make it there early in the night so that you’re not pressed for space! We recommend: their $5 Wednesdays.

07. The Backyard, Pétion-Ville

For an atmospheric bar experience in Port-au-Prince, head to The Backyard. With the down-to-earth decor, they offer an extensive beer and liquor selection, great music, and often host popular soccer games. During hot Haitian summer nights, it’s thronged with locals and visitors and full of good vibes. We recommend: all weekend long!

interior of dining area at restaurant with bar — Harry’s, Petion-Ville
Photo: Franck Fontain

08. Harry’s, Pétion-Ville

A staple of nightlife in Pétion-Ville, Harry’s is one of those inescapable destinations. It is open pretty late, making it a popular for partygoers in need of late-night grub. If you happen to be in the area, make sure to stop for some food between bar hops! We recommend: their kibby – a creole dish that’s kind of like a cross between meatballs and arancini.

people seated in dining area inside a restaurant — Boukanye, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Boukanye

09. Boukanye, Cap-Haitien

If you happen to be in Cap-Haïtien, Boukanye is one of the places you must visit; the bar’s decor is heavily reminiscent of pirate ships, making for a memorable experience! Located on the Boulevard, it’s an excellent place to find live music and cocktails. We recommend: looking out for their weekend events!

people seated at tables dining outside a restaurant — People dining outside Lakay Restaurant, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Franck Fontain

10. Lakay, Cap-Haïtien

If you are looking for great food in Cap-Haïtien, go no further than Lakay; it’s one of the best places to get local grub. They also host weekend events, but they’re announced rather than regular – look them up during the week to see what’s coming up. We recommend: their lanbi with rice and beans!

Street art on the outside of the Alliance Francaise building in Jacmel, Haiti — Alliance Française, Jacmel
Photo: Amanacer / Emily Bauman

11. Alliance Française, Jacmel

For great food in Jacmel, Alliance Française is the place to go. While they do host cultural events and vernissages, they are more famous for their food, which is some of the most sought-after in the city. We recommend: their vegetable penne!

entrance to le belvedere nightclub in jacmel — Le Belvedere nightclub in Jacmel
Photo: Franck Fontain

12. Le Belvedère, Jacmel

ILooking for nightlife in Jacmel? The party is happening at Le Belvédère. Drinks there are affordable, and the crowd is enthusiastic. We recommend: Friday and Saturday nights!

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published January 2020

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Port-au-Prince

Marriott Hotel

First impressions

Rooms

What’s for breakfast?

How about lunch and dinner?

Is there a bar?

Activities and amenities

Within a short walk you can find…

Need to know (before you go)

Getting there

Marriott Hotel

Citadelle Henri

Looking for some cool things to do?

Paradise for your inbox

NH Haiti El Rancho

First Impressions

Rooms

What’s for breakfast?

How about lunch and dinner?

Is there a bar?

Activities and amenities

Within a short walk you can find…

Need to know (before you go)

Getting there

NH Haití El Rancho

Your pocket guide to Cap-Haïtien

Looking for some cool things to do?

Paradise for your inbox

Royal Oasis Hotel

First Impressions

Rooms

What’s for breakfast?

How about lunch and dinner?

Is there a bar?

Activities and amenities

Within a short walk you can find…

Need to know (before you go)

Getting there

Royal Oasis Hotel

Your pocket guide to Cap-Haïtien

Looking for some cool things to do?

Paradise for your inbox

Where to go dancing in Port-au-Prince

Dance to your own beat

01. Yanvalou, Pacot

02. Fubar, Pétion-Ville

03. Carnival!

04. Asu Rooftop Lounge, Juvénat

05. Presse Café, Pétion-Ville

a touch of haitian wisdom

06. Goose Bar, in Tabarre

07. Anti-Stress, Lalue

Your pocket guide to Cap-Haïtien

Top things to see in Haiti

Paradise for your inbox

Sustainable travel guide Ann-Sophie

“If you’re into nature and adventure, the hike to Seguin is a once in a lifetime experience”

From Our Land to Your Home

What’s the first thing we should try, do or see once we arrive in Haiti?

What is your favorite upscale place to eat? How about your favorite ordinary place to eat?

Which city outside of Port-au-Prince is a must-see, and why?

From Our Land to Your Home

What’s one place nature-lovers should absolutely see?

Where should we go to get the best souvenirs and artworks?

A Visual Guide to Vodou Symbols

Explore Haiti’s Art & Culture

Paradise for your inbox

Where to Party: Your Guide to Haitian Nightlife

Want to party the night away, Haitian style?

01. Fubar, Pétion-Ville

From Our Land to Your Home

02. Brasserie Quartier Latin, Pétion-Ville

03. Le Coin des Artistes – Vivano, Pétion-Ville

04. Yanvalou, Pacot

05. Gingerbread, Pacot

06. Magdoos, Pétion-Ville

07. The Backyard, Pétion-Ville

The Birds of Haiti on Your Wall

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a touch of
haitian wisdom

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols