Have you ever wondered what Haiti looks like? This is my photo diary for my first trip to Haiti and what I experienced. My trip to Haiti was not for vacation but to volunteer and bring supplies to orphanages and hospitals in Haiti. I went with a small charity organization based out of Miami called Style Saves. My friend Rachael Russell manages the organization is primarily to provide school uniforms to Miami Dade homeless and less fortunate students. Through
out the year she  also sponsors a few other events, including volunteer trips to Haiti, Cuba and Colombia

If anyone of you reading this would like to get involved or donate please feel free to reach out to me or at StyleSaves.org.  We can never have enough help and we take everything from medical supplies, medicines, new clothes, and school supplies. These families and children need everything. So every donation counts.  It’s really hard to understand how much they need in till you see it for yourself.

Below are photos from the trip. That last day we were there we went to a friends house who lives in Haiti and spent the day and evening at his beach house. The beaches in Haiti are stunning and are equally if not more beautiful then anything you would see at other Caribbean Islands.

While there we stayed at the Wahoo Bay Beach Resort. It was very rustic and had an eco friendly vibe, bot sure if it was. It is one of he nicest places to stay on the beach and to U.S standards it’s a three star property. When going there know that your there for the Beaches, not your room. You can expect mostly cold showers and modest room accommodations. However the views are wonderful and the staff is eager to help.

While in Port Au Prince, which is where we spent the majority of our time. We stayed at the El Rancho Hotel in Petionville. El Rancho was great. It’s a beautiful hotel and the grounds and pool are picture perfect. Once again their strong suit was not blush comfy beds or linens but it was clean and accommodating. It’s important to remember where you are going and keep your expectations realistic and you’ll be pleasantly surprised because the people are wonderful and so happy your there. Haiti is a beautiful country and they want us there.  More tourism is more jobs and results in conditions being changed.

While at night we had the opportunity to go out to some of the local restaurants and bars. Everywhere we went the food and atmosphere where great. People where dancing and having fun. The crowd was a mix of locals, volunteers and the occasional vacationer. There is such a feeling of gratitude and life in Haiti because most people living there are survivors of the 2010 earthquake and you can feel that energy all around you when your there.  It’s really amazing.

Places to Stay:We stayed at the El Rancho Hotel in Petionville. El Rancho was great. Its a beautiful hotel and the grounds and pool are picture perfect.

1. NH Haiti El Racho 
2. Wahoo Bay Beach Resort

Restaurants and Clubs:

 

The Restaurants we went to where Magdoos, and Papaye and the two nightclubs/bar spots where Asu and Olfson.

1. Magdoos is in Petionville. They serve middle eastern food and make the best cocktails in town. The decor is kinda the vide of a Harem as you can get hookah there too. The food was amazing we had a punch of different salads and fish.
2. Papaye is amazing and has a supper club vibe. Think of it as like the Bagatelle of Haiti. Loud music, people dancing, bottles on the table and the food is delicious. They actually had some of the best truffled tagliatelle I’ve ever had.
3. Olfson is a hotel in the historical Ginger Bread district. They have live music thats amazing, great bar scene and serve traditional Haitian cuisine. If we were for another night I would have choosen to eat dinner there. The atmosphere is awesome.
4. Asu is a rooftop club at a hotel called Karibe in uptown Port au Prince. It’s super fun. They have a DJ and the whole thing is completely outdoors with a view of the city. This place is for a late night.

Things to keep in mind:

1. You will need a driver. I promise. Even if you think your have mad Magellan skills, in Haiti not the case.
2. A guide is also necessary. Don’t let this detour you. They are very affordable in Haiti.
3. Make reservations just like in any city, these places get busy.
4. Be prepared for roadblocks, traffic etc. People are everywhere on the streets and there are only two lanes throughout the whole country.
5. Be prepared with all your stuff. This is not the place you bring an empty suitcase expecting to fill in wardrobe woes at the local mall.. Not happening.
6. Be Careful. I know that seems like a no brainer but honestly you don’t want to need medical attention while your there if you can avoid it.
7. If you are an adventurous traveler with an open mind. You are going to have a great time.

If you have any questions or planning travel please reach out, I would be happy to give you some extra pointers. Email me!  Xx Nikole

Check out other Trips here.

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