Haiti: Place d’Armes du Cap: A Tourist and Historical Treasure

Haïti : Hotel Florita

Listed as a historic monument by UNESCO and the World Monument Foundation, Hôtel Florita is a treasure located in the heart of Jacmel, a pearl of Haiti, just one block from the magnificent seaside promenade. This iconic establishment charms its visitors with captivating architecture, a refreshing outdoor pool and a sunny terrace complete with a quaint bar. The rooms at Hotel Florita are a true ode to Haitian history and culture, displaying elegant decoration inspired by the plantation theme. You’ll be greeted by exquisite wooden furniture, mosquito nets that add a touch of romance, and four-poster beds adorned with soft cotton sheets and plush feather pillows. The Florita Hotel is much more than just a place to stay. It is an open door to the history, culture and beauty of Jacmel, Haiti.

Haiti: the Island of Lovers

An enchanting place for memorable vacations, a romantic honeymoon, exhilarating adventures, sightseeing getaways, and much more. Nestled in the south of Haiti, near Île-à-Vache, this paradise island offers a picturesque setting that makes it an exceptional destination. A stone’s throw from Île-à-Vache, a 128 km² pearl bathed by the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, Île des Amoureux is a true gem to discover in Haiti. Just 5.50 nautical miles from the coastal town of Les Cayes, this island is easily accessible. Travelers can reach Les Cayes by car or opt for charter flights to the regional airport. From the port of Les Cayes, a short 20-minute boat trip takes you to this enchanting destination. The fascinating history of Île-à-Vache adds a touch of authenticity to your experience. Once a haunt of pirates and buccaneers, this island was nicknamed “Treasure Island”. Even today, it seduces visitors with its preserved atmosphere, its immaculate beaches and its translucent waters. Whether you long for relaxation on the warm sand, underwater adventures, a romantic getaway, cultural discoveries or an exotic experience, Lovers’ Island meets all your expectations. Dive into the clear waters to explore shimmering coral reefs, hike through lush vegetation or soak up the bustling atmosphere of local markets. For lovers looking for romance, there’s nothing like a sunset stroll on the beach, followed by a candlelit dinner under the stars. Lover’s Island transcends the simple status of a vacation destination to become a true haven of peace where adventure and relaxation combine harmoniously. Whether you are a fan of relaxation or an explorer at heart, this island will enchant you with its authenticity and its breathtaking panoramas. Embark on an unforgettable getaway and discover all that Haïti has to offer on this island paradise.

Haïti : Fort Jacques

Fort Jacques, also known as Fort Jacques Dessalines, is an ancient fortification located in Haiti. It lies in the hills east of the capital, Port-au-Prince. The fort is important for its role in Haitian history, particularly during the Haitian Revolution and the struggle for independence from French colonial rule. The fort is named for Jean-Jacques Dessalines, a key figure in the Haitian Revolution and the first leader of independent Haiti. It was at Fort Jacques that Dessalines, alongside other revolutionary leaders such as Alexandre Pétion and Henri Christophe, strategized and launched military operations against the French and their local allies. Today, Fort Jacques is a historic site and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortifications, including stone walls, cannons and other remnants of the past. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the city below, making it a picturesque location for both history buffs and those interested in Haiti’s natural beauty. It is also a place to reflect on the importance of the Haitian Revolution and the country’s struggle for freedom and independence.

Haiti: Discovering Fort Picolet

Haiti, with its rich historical heritage, is home to several gems that bear witness to the country’s fascinating past. Among these is Fort Picolet, a vital part of the French colonial defensive system, which stands majestically on the coast. This site, steeped in history, offers visitors a captivating dive into the island’s tumultuous past. Fort Picolet was designed as a strategic fortress, composed of two superimposed batteries, a parapet walk and a wall that runs along the coast. Construction work began in 1736 under the direction of M. de Larnage and was completed in 1741 by the engineer M. du Coudreau. This imposing structure bears witness to the architectural know-how of the French colonial era. The fort played a crucial role during the French expedition of February 1802, under the command of General Henry Christophe. Controlling the passage of large tonnage boats between Pointe Picolet and the Grand-Mouton reefs, Fort Picolet temporarily blocked access to the port of Cape Town for the squadron led by Captain General Leclerc. This historic episode marked the beginning of fierce resistance, with General Christophe proclaiming from the ramparts of the fort his famous words: "If you have the force with which you threaten me, I will lend you all the resistance that characterizes a general". Unfortunately, part of the surrounding wall was destroyed during the explosion of the powder magazine. Despite this incident, Fort Picolet has survived over the centuries, testifying to the resilience of its architecture and its historical importance. Today, Fort Picolet stands out as an essential tourist destination in Haiti. Visitors can stroll through its historic corridors, soak up its history-filled atmosphere and admire the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Preservation efforts have been made to restore parts of the fort, providing visitors with an immersive experience into the nation’s past.

Haïti : Labadee

Labadee is a private resort located on the northern coast of Haiti. It is a scenic destination owned by the cruise line Royal Caribbean International and is used exclusively by their cruise ships. Labadee offers visitors a beautiful tropical setting with stunning beaches, lush vegetation and a range of activities and amenities. Here are some of the things you can enjoy in Labadee: Beaches: Labadee offers several beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. These beaches are famous for their clear waters and peaceful environment. Water Sports: Visitors can indulge in various water activities such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and kayaking. The area’s warm waters make it an excellent place for aquatic adventures. Zipline: One of the most popular attractions in Labadee is the Dragon’s Breath Zipline, one of the longest ziplines over water in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Water Park: There is a water park with floating water slides and play areas for children and adults. This is a fun option for families. Cultural Experiences: Labadee offers opportunities to explore Haiti’s local culture and art, with artisans and merchants selling their handcrafted goods. Private Cabanas: If you’re looking for a more exclusive and relaxing experience, Labadee offers private cabanas for rent. These cabanas offer various amenities, including a personal butler. Lunch: Royal Caribbean offers a buffet-style lunch for visitors, which is included in the cruise package.

Haiti: Place d’Armes du Cap: A Tourist and Historical Treasure

Located in the heart of Cap-Haïtien, Place d’Armes, also known as Place Notre Dame, presents itself as an unmissable tourist and historical destination in Haiti. This iconic place, steeped in rich history, not only offers a unique cultural experience but also constitutes a living witness to the crucial events that shaped the Haitian nation. Place d’Armes has been the scene of defining moments in Haitian history. In 1758, it was the site of the immolation of the maroon Makandal, an emblematic figure in the fight against slavery. In 1789, this square was the scene of the torture of the Lacombe freed revolutionaries, thus marking an important step towards the emancipation of slaves. The major event took place in August 1793 when Commissioner Sonthonax proclaimed, on this very square, the general emancipation of slaves in the Northern province. This historic moment played a crucial role in the fight for Haiti’s independence and the end of the slave regime. Over the centuries, Place d’Armes has undergone several architectural transformations. Originally decorated with a colonial fountain, it was demolished in 1944 to make way for a statue of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, one of the major figures of the Haitian revolution. This symbolic change reinforced the historical importance of the square by celebrating national heroes. In 2002, Place Notre-Dame underwent a complete renovation, allowing visitors to discover its history while enjoying a modernized and welcoming setting. This renovation made it possible to preserve the historic character of the place while adapting it to contemporary needs. Today, Cape Town’s Place d’Armes serves as a central venue for the celebration of cultural events, festivals and artistic demonstrations. Visitors can wander the square, steeped in the historic atmosphere that surrounds it, and discover the memorials that tell the tumultuous history of the region.