Port-au-Prince - the Largest city of Haiti
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Places to see:
There are beautiful spots scattered around this small town that are well worth a visit. The National Museum or the Musee du Pantheon National Haitien has in its collection Haitian relics, early costumes, paintings and historic documents set in a splendid hilltop mansion. The museum educates visitors about the range of influential experiences occurring in the area over time, describing the history of Haiti from the time of the Arawak and Taino Indians to the 1940’s. The roof has some unique mosaic work and cones. It offers visitors a great view of the Port-au-Prince from above the hilltop. Nearby you will be able to see the National Palace.
The Delfly Mansion, designed by a Haitian architect, is an impressive example of 19th-century French style. The Cathedral of St. Trinity, with its huge paintings and murals of the local voodoo and Catholic spiritualism is one of the most popular sights around town. One of the paintings here is a Biblical scene reminiscent of the wedding at Cana although the setting is a Haitian village…making it a unique work of art.
Speaking of art, don’t forget to visit the Museum of Haitian Art that displays the country’s best collection of local art characterized by bold color and by the depiction of plants animals and people.
Then there is the Iron Market which strangely enough the Iron market sells not iron but food and various other consumer goods. It is a lively place where you can experience the colors and flavors of local life. Another shopping area is the Tuesday market in nearby Kenscoff from where you will also get great views of the harbor and city.
Do take some time and make a trip into the hills behind Port-au-Prince to the suburb of Petionville, which is also a good place to stay if you are touring the region. Located high above the city, it has some of Haiti’s loveliest hotels as well as a casino, a 9-hole golf course and tennis courts. There are also many boutiques, art galleries and some of the capital’s best restaurants. You can also take a tour of the Jane Barbancourt Rum distillery. This is a safer neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife.
Culture:
One of the official languages of Haiti is French, although not many locals speak it. The language is generally associated with the local elite. Another official language is a local mix of French and African languages called Haitian Creole is the language of the masses. The Haitian gourde, pronounced good, is the local currency divided into 100 centimes.
For the foodie:
Haitian cuisine is a flavorful mix of Carribean and African preferences. Try the roasted goat called kabrit, poultry with a Creole sauce called poulet creole, and rice with wild mushroom called du ri jonjon, which are all local favorites. Seafood like fish, lobster and conch are readily available. While you are in town, don’t hesitate to try out some of the wide variety of fruits available including guava, pineapple, mango, banana, melons, breadfruit, and sugarcane. And when bottled or boiled water is not available, a freshly opened coconut is a great alternative providing hydration and electrolytes with minimal health risk.
Haitian rum is well-known and the Barbancourt 5 Star brand is the preferred choice. Clairin is a local firewater made from sugarcane often flavored with various herbs that you ought to try. Other local drinks include the Papye drink, a papaya milk shake and Cremas, an alcoholic beverage made of coconut and vanilla.
Getting around:
The Guy Malary International Airport, but better known as Port-au-Prince International Airport is Haiti’s sole international airport and is served by several major airlines.
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