Haiti is a politically unstable third world country. The US State Department often places travel advisories that recommend US citizens not travel to Haiti. It is a good idea to check these advisories before planning a trip to Haiti. Political rallies and times before elections are particularly hazardous.
Adventurous travelers however may want to travel to Haiti during periods of relative political stability. There are also many people who travel to Haiti for various mission and service trips.
Travel Tips for Haiti
Haiti is a dysfunctional country with few working services for tourists and first time visitors; so, for a first trip to Haiti, travel with someone who knows the local language and customs to act as a guide. The official language is French, but most people speak Hatian Creole, a blend of French and African languages.
Don't expect luxury, and be able to cope with inconvieniences. Basic services, such as electricity often don't work. Travelers wanting a luxury vacation should travel elsewhere.
Be prepared to encounter extreme poverty. As a consequence of this poverty, blans, the Haitian word for foreigners, are frequently asked for money - often in exchange for services. Travelers who give money or gifts in a crowd will be inundated with requests for more.
Leave expensive jewlery, clothing, etc. at home. Bring nothing too valuable to lose. Pickpockets are skillful. Travelers should carry money, credit cards, passports, and similar items in a money belt hidden under their clothing. Keep it hidden, by carrying a small amount of spending money.
Travelers planning to use Haitian public transportation should travel light. Travelers must usually carry their luggage on their laps and should watch their luggage closely.
Pay attention! Hazards are not marked as they are in the developed world. Sidewalks may have gaping holes to the sewer drains below. Traffic is chaotic. Drivers will not stop for inattentive pedestrians. Drivers use both sides of the road and will even drive on sidewalks. Get out of the way.
Dress appropriately. Haitians seldom wear shorts outside the home. Men should wear long pants when out in public. Convertible pants with the legs that zip off are useful when returning to more casual settings. Women should wear fairly long full skirts. Women traveling to Haiti may want to buy such skirts at a local thrift shop and donate them to Hatian hosts when leaving.
Travelers should take the same precautions about eating and drinking that they would take in any undeveloped country. Make sure food is fully cooked. Do not drink unbottled water. Avoid unpeeled raw produce. Just in case, bring along an ample supply of antidiarreal medicine including a filled prescription.
Purchase a health insurance policy for international travel that covers medically necessary evacuations. Haitian health care facilities do not meet the standards of the developed world.
Public restrooms are very rare. Hence Haitians must frequently urinate along public streets and roads. Men simply turn around. Women use their long full skirts to provide some privacy.
Always wear shoes or sandals! The ground and streets are far from sanitary. Hookworm and similar parasites are common and enter through bare feet.
Ride in a taptap at least once. It needs to be experienced.
Haitians are a warm friendly people who must also be very strong and resilient to survive their crushing poverty. A smile and friendly "bonsoir" will break the ice with most Haitians. Visitors to Haiti who take the time to get to know the Haitian people will be well rewarded.
Further Reading
Doggett, Scott and Connolly, Joyce, Dominican Republic and Haiti, Lonely Planet, 2002.
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