Preface Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:17 AM
Once known as the Pearl of the Antilles, the Republic of Haiti
has seen better days. Still, this special nation boasts a rich and
fascinating culture that is unquestionably unique. Its more than
eight million inhabitants are less rich but no less fascinating.
Sadly, Haiti's volatile political culture has resulted in two
international interventions in the past decade. The country is
struggling through a long and painful transition to democracy that
began after the overthrow of the Duvalier family dictatorship in
1986. Extreme poverty, social inequity and environmental degradation
only exacerbate this political struggle. As one ambassador put it,
the tragedy of Haiti is that Haitians have become great leaders in
every profession and in every country, with the exception of Haiti.
Through it all, the Haitian people endure, unfailingly proud of
Haiti's past and hopeful for its future.
Despite these challenges, Haiti is a remarkable and rewarding
country in which to serve. The United States' main foreign policy
objective is to stabilize Haiti, bring it back from failed-state
status and prevent a mass exodus of refugees. Following the
departure of former President Aristide in February 2004, an interim
government and a UN peacekeeping mission are re-establishing
stability and security, fostering reconciliation among Haiti's many
sectors, addressing basic infrastructure and economic needs, and
preparing elections in late 2005 to return the country to
constitutional normalcy. The U.S. is deeply involved in supporting
all aspects of this transition; service here means making a concrete
contribution in a country of great importance to the U.S. Work in
Haiti is very demanding, and can be befuddling and frustrating at
times. Most Americans living in Haiti find the people warm and
approachable, the climate delightful, the food delicious, and the
arts marvelous.
The Host Country
Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:21 AM
Eighteenth-century Haiti, famed for its wealth and productivity,
was known to the colonial world as the Pearl of the Antilles.
Located in the Caribbean Sea on the western third of the island of
Hispaniola, Haiti is a 10,700-square-mile area of primarily
mountainous terrain, some of which rise above 8,000 feet, and 850
miles of spectacular coastline. Haiti shares the island of
Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, which occupies the eastern
two-thirds.
Haiti's tropical climate produces seasonal rainfall, although
large areas of the country are semiarid. Temperatures year round
range from 70°F to 90°F with high humidity along the coast at times.
Average annual rainfall varies from nearly zero in some areas to 53
inches in Port-au-Prince. The two rainy seasons that Port-au-Prince
experiences are from April to June and from August to mid-November.
Rain and accompanying thunder/lightning storms usually occur at dusk
and at night, but the days remain clear and sunny. There is a crisp
dry season from December to April. Surrounding mountains generally
protect Port-au-Prince from Caribbean hurricanes.
Population Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:22 AM
With its current population estimated to be over 8 million, Haiti
ranks among the most densely populated countries in the world.
Port-au-Prince, the capital, has more than 2.5 million inhabitants.
Cap Haitien, on the north coast, is the second largest city, with a
population of 670,000. Haiti's population growth rate is 2.2%
annually, with the population expected to double by 2027. Chronic
poverty, mounting urbanization and a weak national health care
infrastructure produce the worst health statistics in the Western
Hemisphere. Only about 40% of Haitians have access to basic health
services. Maternal and child mortality, malnutrition, and HIV/AIDS
plague the country's medical, social, and economic fiber. Years of
Haitian political instability have given rise to a hardy private
health care community, with many services offered by religious or
humanitarian organizations. Still, only 34% of Haiti's children
under five years have been fully immunized against preventable
diseases. Heavily stigmatized early in the AIDS pandemic, a
successful HIV/AIDS strategy has led to halving of the HIV rate to
an estimated 3.1%.
An estimated 90 percent of Haitians are of African descent. The
remaining 10 percent include Haitians of mixed African-European
descent plus immigrants from Europe and the Middle East. French and
Creole are Haiti's official languages, even though only 20% of the
population speaks French fluently. All Haitians speak and understand
Creole, but as a written means of communication it has to contend
with Haiti's 52% adult illiteracy rate.
The culture and traditions of Haiti come from its African,
Caribbean, and French roots. Following World War II, a significant
number of Haitians began visiting or studying in the U.S. and
Canada. Overseas Haitians now number approximately 1-2 million (many
in the U.S., Canada, and the Dominican Republic). This travel back
and forth has made North American customs and habits increasingly
familiar in Haiti. In an attempt to escape the country's grinding
poverty (particularly during periods of political repression), tens
of thousands of Haitians have attempted to enter the U.S. illegally,
the vast majority in overcrowded, unseaworthy boats.
Public Institutions Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:22 AM
The Republic of Haiti is a parliamentary democracy in transition,
struggling with a 200-year legacy of political conflict and
repression. From 1986, when the 30-year dictatorship of the Duvalier
family ended, until 1991, a series of provisional governments ruled
Haiti. In 1987, Haitians adopted a Constitution that provides for an
elected bicameral Parliament, an elected President who serves as
head of state, and a Prime Minister, Cabinet of Ministers, and
Supreme Court appointed by the President with Parliament's consent.
In December 1990, Jean-Bertrand Aristide won 67% of the vote in a
Presidential election that international observers deemed largely
free and fair. Aristide took office in February 1991 but
dissatisfied elements of the army (with some support from the
business community) overthrew him and forced him to leave the
country in September of the same year.
In July 1994, the U.N. Security Council adopted a resolution
authorizing member states to use all necessary means to facilitate
the departure of Haiti's military leadership and restore
constitutional rule, including the return of President Aristide. In
September, with U.S. troops prepared to enter Haiti in a matter of
hours, President Bill Clinton dispatched a negotiating team led by
former President Jimmy Carter to meet with the de facto Haitian
leadership to discuss the terms of their departure. As a result, a
U.S.-led multinational force (MNF) was able to deploy to Haiti
peacefully. Coup leader Raoul Cedras and other top military leaders
left Haiti, and restoration of the legitimate government began,
leading to Aristide's return in October of that year.
Oft-delayed elections for Parliament and local government offices
took place successfully between June and October 1995. President
Aristide's Lavalas Party and its affiliates swept into power at all
levels. In the December 1995 Presidential election, with Aristide
barred by the Haitian Constitution from succeeding himself,
prominent Lavalas figure Rene Preval (Aristide's first Prime
Minister in 1991) overwhelmed his 13 opponents by garnering 88% of
the vote. He took office the following February.
Almost constant political crises beset Preval's five-year term. A
deadlocked Parliament, allegations of widespread corruption, and
resignations by key government officials impaired political,
economic and social reform. On January 11, 1999, the four-year
mandates of most local and legislative officials ended, while
elections to replace them never occurred. Preval refused to extend
their mandates, ushering in a period of rule by decree. On May 21,
2000, elections finally took place. A flawed method of counting
votes and other irregularities assured the ruling Fanmi Lavalas
Party of a sweeping victory. However, the Organization of American
States pulled its observers and the international community
registered strong protests against the vote-counting methodology.
The opposition refused to accept the results of the May election
and called for a boycott of the Presidential election scheduled for
November 26, 2000. Despite numerous negotiation efforts, opposition
leaders refused to participate, and the November election went
forward with no international support. Jean-Bertrand Aristide, who
ran again, was declared the winner. The opposition never accepted
Aristide's victory, and the political crisis continued to escalate
as the opposition banded together to bring about his ouster. In the
fall of 2003 former military elements, some of whom had been hiding
out in the Dominican Republic, began organizing a fitful rebellion
in Haiti's north and central plateau. At the same time Aristide
deployed his paid thugs, called "chimères" in Creole, with
increasing frequency in Port-au-Prince and other cities to disrupt
opposition demonstrations, violently deter Aristide's rivals, and
intimidate the general populace. The political and security
situation deteriorated rapidly between November 2003 and February
2004, especially after anti-Aristide forces took control in Gonaives
on February 5. By late February, with Port-au-Prince surrounded by
rebel forces, Aristide requested help from the United States to flee
the country. He submitted his resignation on February 29, 2004 and
flew to Africa. He is currently living in exile in South Africa. A
U.S. led Multinational Interim Force (MIF) arrived just after his
departure and maintained security until the arrival of MINUSTAH, a
Brazilian-led U.N. peacekeeping mission in June 2004.
Immediately following Aristide's departure, Supreme Court
President Boniface Alexandre became Interim President, in accordance
with the constitution. He subsequently appointed former UN official
Gerard Latortue as Prime Minister, following the recommendations of
an ad hoc "Council of Eminent Persons." Latortue's largely
technocratic government took power on March 17, 2004 and, following
consultations with many political sectors, signed an April 4 accord
defining a limited mandate running through February 2006. The
government's principal objective is to organize free, fair, and
credible elections by the end of 2005; these have now been scheduled
for October (local) and November/December
(parliamentary/presidential) 2005.
The interim government's task has been made substantially more
difficult by its inheritance from the Aristide regime: a bankrupt
treasury; corrupt and weakened institutions; a negative-growth
economy; a politicized, poorly equipped, and undermanned police
force; and a crumbling infrastructure. In addition, the difficulties
have been exacerbated by violence propagated by pro-Aristide
partisans and, to a lesser extent, the ex-soldiers who helped push
Aristide out and began demanding redress for their perceived
grievances. The security challenge to the police and the 8,000 UN
peacekeepers continues to be great, and the situation is likely to
remain fragile at least through the inauguration of a new government
in February 2006.
Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:23 AM
Education is available in Haiti from preschool through
university, although only 67% of 6- through 11-year-old Haitian
children attend primary school. In driving through Port-au-Prince,
one sees an extraordinary number of schools, including numerous
preschools and kindergartens. Due to the low number and low quality
of public schools Haitian parents prefer private schools and make
great sacrifices to afford the tuition. Over 80% of all schools in
Haiti are non-public due to weak state capacity to provide education
services.
The State University of Haiti, located in Port-au-Prince, is
tuition-free to those students who can pass the tough entrance
exams. The university has schools of administration, agronomy,
dentistry, economics, education, law, literature, medicine, and
science. Most subjects are taught in French and in the French
university tradition. Lately, there has been some instruction in
Creole, and North American educational systems have influenced the
curricula at the Institute of Administration, Management, and
Diplomacy (INAGHEI) and the Université Quisqueya (UNIQ).
A significant number of art schools attempt to maintain the
spirit of Haiti's 1940's explosion onto the world art scene. There
are also institutes of science and technology and a multitude of
private universities.
Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:23 AM
Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere and one of
the poorest countries in the world. The average income for a Haitian
is around $300-400 per year.
The economy has been in decline for years. Some of the many
reasons for its poor performance over the past several decades are
the following: political violence and turmoil; pervasive corruption;
inability of the government to collect taxes; lack of a functioning
judicial system; lack of roads; poor condition of the ports;
inconsistent telephone service; and interruptions in the supply of
electricity.
The major components of Haiti's economy are retail trade,
agriculture and light industry. Many Haitians make their living
buying and selling goods. These merchants fill local markets and
line major roads throughout the country selling their wares.
Agriculture is mostly subsistence; rural farmers grow enough to feed
their families and sell the surplus to their neighbors or in the
local market. Some mangoes and coffee are grown for export, but
neither is a major source of export revenue. Sugar is not exported
to the United States, although rum is. Light industry consists
mostly of apparel assembly for export to the United States and also
some production for local use. In the past the apparel assembly
sector was a major source of income and jobs for the Haitians, but
due to political turmoil and Asian competition, this industry has
faded in importance.
The United States is by far the most important market for Haitian
goods and also supplies most of Haiti's imports. Apparel (t-shirts,
polo-type shirts) is the main export to the United States.
The employment rate in Haiti is estimated at only 30 percent of
the workforce. That does not mean, however, that 70 percent of
Haitian workers are unemployed. Most Haitians work in the informal
sector. In fact, most of Haitian Gross Domestic Product (GDP) comes
from the informal sector, such as the informal buying and selling of
goods or providing services.
An important component of the Haitian economy is remittances:
payments sent to Haitians by relatives or friends living in the
United States or Canada. An estimated $1 billion in remittances flow
into Haiti each year. Remittances are essential for many Haitians to
keep them fed and clothed and to supply capital for their small,
informal businesses. Another important component of the economy is
foreign assistance. In July 2004 international donors agreed to
provide over $1 billion in assistance to Haiti through fiscal year
2006.
The gourde is the official currency in Haiti. For decades, the
gourde was tied to the U.S. dollar at 5 to 1, and it became common
to quote prices in "Haitian dollars" as well as gourdes. The Haitian
dollar, an artificial construct and not an actual unit of currency,
is worth 5 gourdes. The exchange rate in early 2005 fluctuated
between 35 and 40 gourdes to the U.S. dollar.
Resolution of Haiti's political crisis and a period of sustained
political stability is a prerequisite for the revival of the Haitian
economy, and to improve prospects for foreign investment and to
stimulate foreign trade which would provide jobs and help to
alleviate the pervasive poverty of Haiti.
Transportation Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:25 AM
Automobiles
In Port-au-Prince, a private car is essential for independence
and convenience, as public transport is not recommended. Mission
personnel should ship their cars to Haiti as early as possible, even
if this means renting a car in the U.S. for a brief period.
Regulations in effect for all U.S. agencies regarding importation
and disposal of motor vehicles are as follows:
* No motor vehicle may be imported for the purpose of resale.
* Sale of duty-free, imported, privately owned vehicles and
personal property, normally on departure from post, is subject to
strict control by the Embassy.
* A motor vehicle cannot be sold until payment of duties by
either the seller or the buyer is assured, unless someone with
duty-free privileges purchases the vehicle.
* Notification in writing of the transaction must be sent to the
Embassy administrative officer. The Embassy will then report the
sale to the Haitian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to the police.
Cars with high clearance and good traction are most popular for
the steep hills and potholed streets of Port-au- Prince. Most people
find a four-wheel drive sport utility vehicle the only good choice -
people who have imported sedans have usually regretted the decision.
Vehicles with four-wheel drive are needed for almost all travel
outside Port-au-Prince. Also, keep in mind that the streets of
Port-au-Prince are very narrow. A used car in good mechanical
condition is adequate. Cars are driven on the right side of the
road.
Minimum liability insurance, consisting of $2,000 bodily injury
and $1,000 property damage for each accident, is compulsory.
Consideration should be given to acquiring additional insurance
through an international insurance company. The Haitian Government
grants tax-free car registration and licensing to all U.S.
Government personnel. This process is handled by the Embassy.
Automobile repair shops make some repairs, but quality is
questionable. There are dealers in Port-au-Prince for most major
manufacturers. These dealers do provide reasonably good service on
most models although they can be expensive and slow. Many spare
parts for American, Japanese, and European cars are sold locally but
at two-to- three times their U.S. prices. Tires and batteries may be
purchased locally. Tires with tubes hold up better than tubeless
tires.
Unleaded gasoline and diesel fuel are available at duty-free
prices through the Embassy. Security restrictions may prevent
official staff and family members from traveling to downtown
Port-au-Prince, in which case gas is available on the local economy
for between US $3-5 per gallon. Gasoline sold in Haiti is called
"super" but is comparable to U.S. "regular". Do not remove catalytic
converters from cars.
Local Transportation
Embassy personnel are prohibited from using local transport known
as "tap taps". Embassy personnel are also strongly discouraged from
using public or private transport services.
Regional Transportation
Port-au-Prince has daily nonstop flights to and from Miami and
New York and regular flights to Santo Domingo, Montreal, Kingston,
and Fort-de-France. The nearby Dominican Republic provides a welcome
change for Embassy personnel wanting a short vacation away from
Post. There are also two bus companies who provide daily service to
the Dominican Republic.
Automobiles Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
In Port-au-Prince, a private car is essential for independence
and convenience, as public transport is not recommended. Mission
personnel should ship their cars to Haiti as early as possible, even
if this means renting a car in the U.S. for a brief period.
Regulations in effect for all U.S. agencies regarding importation
and disposal of motor vehicles are as follows:
No motor vehicle may be imported for the purpose of resale. Sale
of duty-free, imported, privately owned vehicles and personal
property, normally on departure from post, is subject to strict
control by the Embassy. A motor vehicle cannot be sold until payment
of duties by either the seller or the buyer is assured, unless
someone with duty-free privileges purchases the vehicle.
Notification in writing of the transaction must be sent to the
Embassy administrative officer. The Embassy will then report the
sale to the Haiti Department of Foreign Affairs and to the police.
Cars with high clearance and good traction are most popular for the
steep hills and potholed streets of Port-au- Prince. Many different
makes of regular passenger cars have been used successfully in the
city. Vehicles with four-wheel drive are needed for almost all
travel outside Port-au-Prince. Since high mileage is rarely
accumulated, a used car in good mechanical condition is adequate.
Cars are driven on the right side of the road.
Minimum liability insurance, consisting of $2,000 bodily injury
and $1,000 property damage for each accident, is compulsory. The
Haitian Government grants tax-free car registration and licensing to
all U.S. Government personnel.
Automobile repair shops make some repairs, but quality is not
good. Some spare parts for American, Japanese, and European cars are
sold locally but at two-to- three times more than U.S. prices. Tires
and batteries may be purchased locally. Tires with tubes hold up
better than tubeless tires.
Unleaded gasoline is available at duty-free prices at the
Embassy. Do not remove catalytic converters from cars. Gasoline sold
in Haiti is called "super" but is comparable to U.S. "regular."
Diesel fuel is also available at the Embassy.
Local Transportation Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
The local transport known as "tap taps" are rarely used by
Embassy personnel, if ever. "Service" (sharing) taxis operate on
defined routes. Embassy personnel are advised not to use public
transport because there is no safe, clean, or modern intercity or
intracity transport available. There are some private taxi services,
but these are very expensive, particularly for new foreigners and
during any gasoline shortages.
Regional Transportation Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
During normal times, Port-au-Prince has daily nonstop flights to
and from Miami and New York and regular flights to Santo Domingo,
Montreal, Paris, Kingston, and Curaçao. Reservations can be
difficult to make during the peak travel seasons of summer and
Christmas. The nearby Dominican Republic provides a welcome change
for Embassy personnel wishing a short vacation away from post.
Communications Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:28 AM
Telephones and Telecommunications
Port-au-Prince has a dial telephone system, which is subject to
interruption during rainy seasons and electricity shortages. The
monthly charge is approximately US $10 per residence. Although few
Embassy residences have telephones that allow for direct dialing,
overseas calls may still be made using an AT&T or similar charge
card, or by using a global call-back phone service system. Official
residences of the Ambassador, DCM, and the residences of senior
section and agency heads are equipped with Embassy extensions. The
residences of the USAID Mission Director and Deputy Director share
an extension line linked directly to the USAID office. Overseas
calls can be made at most local hotels with a USA-direct card. Most
American employees have U.S.G.-issued cell phones for use in Haiti.
Use of the Embassy FAX service is available and billed as a phone
call.
Mail and Pouch
Haiti's international mail and the Embassy pouch service are both
slow. First-class pouches come in and go out two or three times
weekly at the Embassy, but letters often take 2-4 weeks to reach
their final destination. Packages and magazines arrive by
surface-to-air pouch twice weekly. Their delivery time is about 3
weeks. Pouch facilities cannot be used to send packages from Haiti
to the U.S. Departing personnel usually volunteer to carry letters
with them to mail in the U.S.
For official U.S. Government pouch service, use the following
address:
(Name and Agency)
Department of State
3400 Port au Prince Place
Washington, DC 20521-3400
Note: Subject to Anthrax eradication - may harm items such as
credit cards
For personal mail via the pouch service, use the following
address:
(Name and Agency)
3400 Port au Prince Place
Dulles, VA 20189-3400
For international mail, use the following address:
(Name and Agency)
American Embassy
Box 1761
Port-au-Prince, HAITI
HT 6110 (West Indies)
The Embassy also uses a private service for incoming letters and
magazines addressed to direct hire employees. Any packages or large
letters (but not magazines) received at this address are subject to
a costly charge calculated by their weight. It is therefore
advisable not to have any packages sent to this address. Mail from
the U.S. takes about one week and should be addressed as follows:
Employee Name
P.O. Box 591108
Miami, Florida 33159-1108
Radio and TV
104 legal and independent AM/FM stereo radio stations broadcast
in Haiti, and 44 of those are located in Port-au-Prince. Most
broadcast 16-18 hours a day, including the government-owned radio
station Radio Nationale. Shortwave radios pick up all principal
international networks, including VOA and BBC. The VOA Creole
service program is rebroadcast daily in the capital (there are a
total of 12 VOA affiliates throughout Haiti).
There are nine (9) TV stations in the capital. Television
Nationale d'Haiti (TNH), the government-owned station, broadcasts
all over the country, with an estimated audience of 2-3 million
viewers (actually TNH covers 65% of the territory). It provides
French- and Creole-language programs 16 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Tele-Haiti, a privately owned cable station, relays 39 channels
of programs in English, French, and Spanish. These currently include
CNN, HBO, the Discovery Channel, ESPN, TNT, PBS, FOX, BET, and U.S.
stations affiliated with CBS, NBC, and ABC. Tele-Haiti (broadcasting
7 days a week, 24 hours daily) serves only Port-au-Prince and has
about 100,000 viewers. Program quality is generally good, barring
power failures. Cable deposit and installation cost about 4.075
gourdes (US$112,40) with a monthly service fee of around 990 gourdes,
about US$28, respectively, at the current exchange rate (March
2005).
DirecTV service, with about 400 channels, is available. The
receiver provided by DirecTV in the U.S. works in Haiti, but the
18-inch dish does not. The channel master dish is available locally
and costs over US $1,500 for purchase and installation. Monthly fees
are close to $90. Typically, service providers will not provide
monthly subscriptions unless the dish is purchased through them.
Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00
PM
Port-au-Prince has a dial telephone system, which is subject to
interruption during rainy seasons and electricity shortages. The
monthly charge is $10 per residence. Although few Embassy residences
have telephones that allow for direct dialing, overseas calls may
still be made using an AT&T or MCI telephone charge card, or by
using a global call-back phone service system. Official residences
of the Ambassador, DCM, Political and Economic Counselors, RSO, and
IMO are equipped with Embassy extensions. The residences of the
USAID Mission Director and Deputy Director share an extension line
linked directly to the USAID office. Calls to the U.S. and other
countries can also be made at the Embassy and are billed monthly.
Overseas calls can be made at most local hotels with a USA-direct
card. Most American employees have U.S.G.-issued cell phones for use
in Haiti. Use of the Embassy FAX service is available and billed as
a phone call. The Embassy FAX number is (509) 223-1641.
Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Haiti's international mail and the Embassy pouch service are both
slow. First-class pouches come in and go out twice weekly at the
Embassy, but letters often take 2-4 weeks to reach their final
destination. Packages and magazines arrive by surface-to-air pouch
twice weekly. Their delivery time is about 3 weeks. Pouch facilities
cannot be used to send packages from Haiti to the U.S. Departing
personnel usually volunteer to carry letters with them to mail in
the U.S.
For U.S. Government pouch service, use the following address:
(Name and Agency) Department of State 3400 Port-au-Prince Place
Washington, DC 20521-3400
For international mail, use the following address:
(Name and Agency) American Embassy Box 1761 Port-au-Prince, HAITI
(West Indies)
The Embassy also makes use of a private service for incoming
letters and magazines addressed to direct hire employees. Mail from
the U.S. takes about one week and should be addressed as follows:
Employee Name P.O. Box 591108 Miami, Florida 33159-1108
Radio and TV Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
There are 91 independent AM/FM stereo radio stations in Haiti, 42
of that are located in Port-au-Prince. Most broadcast 16-18 hours a
day, including the government-owned radio station Radio Nationale.
Shortwave radios pick up all principal international networks,
including VOA and BBC. The VOA Creole service program is rebroadcast
daily in the capital.
There are seven TV stations in the capital. Television Nationale
d'Haiti (TNH), the government-owned station, broadcasts all over the
country, with an estimated audience of 500,000. It provides French-
and Creole-language programs 18 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Tele-Haiti, a privately owned cable station, relays 21 channels
of programs in English, French, and Spanish. These currently include
CNN, HBO, the Discovery Channel, ESPN, TNT, PBS, FOX, and U.S.
stations affiliated with CBS, NBC, and ABC. Tele-Haiti (broadcasting
7 days a week, 24 hours daily) serves only Port-au-Prince and has
about 100,000 viewers. Program quality is generally good, barring
power failures. Cable deposit and installation cost about 600
Haitian dollars with a monthly service fee of around 114 Haitian
dollars, about $135 and $25, respectively, at the current exchange
rate (May 2001).
DirecTV service, with about 400 channels, is available. The
receiver provided by DirecTV in the U.S. works in Haiti, but the
18-inch dish does not. The channel master dish is available locally
and costs over US$1,000 installed.
PVS-Antenne 16, a privately owned station broadcasting on UHF,
beams French- and English-language programming 8 hours a day, 7 days
a week to about 20,000 viewers in the capital.
American TV sets (NTSC), operating on 110v AC, work well. For
both radio and TV, equipment operable on battery power is desirable
because of the frequency of power failures.
Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated:
10/31/2002 6:00 PM
U.S. newspapers, particularly the Miami Herald, are available but
not always on a daily basis. Magazines such as Time, Newsweek,
L'Express, and Le Figaro are available about a week after
publication.
Currently, there are several newspapers in Haiti, including two
French-language dailies in Port-au-Prince. One of these dailies has
occasional articles in English. Radio, TV, and newspapers draw on
Agence France Presse, Reuters, and AP for international news.
The Haitian-American Institute Library, open to Americans, has
about 3,700 volumes and is probably the best lending library in the
country; membership is 5 Haitian dollars per year. The Colony Club,
a private lending library located at the Petionville Club, is open
Fridays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and can be joined for US$30 per year.
The club has over 2,000 books in English.
A few commercial bookstores have American, British, French, and
Haitian books, although the supply of novels in English is slim, and
prices are higher than in the U.S. It is important to bring adequate
reading material to post. For small children there are few books
available outside the school library. It is wise to subscribe to
U.S. magazines and book clubs (keeping in mind the slow mail service
to and from post) for both adults and children and to utilize
on-line bookstores to make up for the dearth of current
English-language reading material available in Port-au-Prince.
Health and Medicine Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:28 AM
Medical Facilities
The Embassy Health Unit is open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
daily, Monday through Friday. An English-speaking, Belgian-trained
physician (a general practitioner with ob-gyn specialty), and a US
trained American Registered Nurse staff the unit. The Embassy also
has a "walking blood bank" program available to all Mission
personnel. Port-au-Prince has a number of competent Haitian doctors,
but lack of equipment limits medical facilities. Expert diagnostic
service is not available, so any chronic or potentially chronic
conditions should be treated before departure from the U.S. When
surgery is recommended, personnel use the daily commercial flights
to Miami, where excellent medical services are available. In case of
emergency, there is medical evacuation by air ambulance to Miami, if
necessary.
Locally, there are several competent dentists. A number of
American- or Canadian-trained specialists in cardiology, pediatrics,
and eye/ear/nose/throat are available.
Local oculists and optometrists can issue eyeglass prescriptions.
Lens-grinding facilities are available, but special lenses must be
ground outside the country. It is advisable to bring extra
eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses with ultraviolet
screening plus a copy of your current prescription. Selection of
contact lens solutions is limited.
The Canapé Vert Hospital in Port-au-Prince, which the Embassy
uses when necessary, has a doctor covering the emergency room from 7
p.m. to 7 a.m. and on weekends. It has some air-conditioned private
rooms, and most doctors are permitted to practice there. The rates
are lower than in the U.S., but due to inadequate nursing care and
lack of supplies, hospitalization is sometimes precarious and rarely
used by the Embassy.
It is advisable to bring to post any medications and
over-the-counter drugs used regularly and to make arrangements with
a U.S. pharmacy for refills. Pharmacies are available in
Port-au-Prince but often stock only European pharmaceuticals.
Contraceptives are available, but not all kinds. It is preferable to
bring your own. Prescription refills are done via the Ft. Lauderdale
Regional Center, and when the Regional Medical Officer and/or
Foreign Service Health Practitioner visit Post. It can take 3 - 6
weeks for medication to come via pouch.
Community Health
The level of community sanitation and public cleanliness
throughout the country is far below U.S. standards. Streets in
Port-au-Prince are littered with refuse, and sewage often stagnates
in open gutters. Port-au-Prince's sewage system is totally
inadequate for the city's needs. The Embassy purchases purified
bottled water, which is distributed to all Embassy housing units.
Local vegetables and fruit that cannot be peeled must be thoroughly
washed and soaked in chlorine solution.
Preventive Measures
Malaria is a serious problem in rural Haiti. It is recommended
that Embassy personnel take malaria-preventive medication. A supply
is stocked and dispensed by the Embassy. Personnel should arrive
supplied with mosquito repellants and mosquito netting for beds, as
not all housing units have screens.
Other diseases common to Haiti include Hepatitis A and B, typhoid
fever, tuberculosis, venereal disease (including AIDS), intestinal
parasites, dengue fever, polio, and rabies. Due to the high
incidence of some of these diseases, any hired household help should
have a pre-employment physical examination and periodic checkups.
Occasional cases of dysentery, diarrhea, or dengue fever occur
among Americans living in Haiti. Although no vaccinations are
required for entry into the country (unless one is coming from a
Yellow-Fever-infected area), the State Department recommends
inoculations against typhoid fever, tetanus, diphtheria, polio,
hepatitis B, measles, and rabies. Children should be up to date on
all recommended immunizations. Immune globulin is recommended every
4-6 months for prevention of Hepatitis A. The Health Unit has
vaccines should you need booster shots or a primary series.
As the local water supply lacks fluoride, supplementation for
children is important to prevent tooth decay. A supply of sunscreen
is essential to prevent skin damage from the tropical rays.
Medical Facilities Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
The Embassy Health Unit is open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
daily, Monday through Friday. An English-speaking, Paris-trained
physician on contract (a general practitioner with ob-gyn
specialty), and a trained secretary staff the unit. The Embassy also
has a "walking blood bank" program available to all Mission
personnel. Port-au-Prince has a number of competent Haitian doctors,
but lack of equipment limits medical facilities. Expert diagnostic
service is not available, so any chronic or potentially chronic
conditions should be treated before departure from the U.S. When
surgery is recommended, personnel use the daily commercial flights
to Miami, where excellent medical services are available. In case of
emergency, there is medical evacuation by air ambulance to Miami, if
necessary.
Locally, there are several competent dentists. A number of
American- or Canadian-trained specialists in cardiology, pediatrics,
and eye/ear/nose/throat are available.
Local oculists and optometrists can issue eyeglass prescriptions.
Lens-grinding facilities are available, but special lenses must be
ground outside the country. It is advisable to bring extra
eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses with ultraviolet
screening plus a copy of your current prescription. Selection of
contact lens solutions is limited.
The Canapé Vert Hospital in Port-au-Prince, which the Embassy
uses when necessary, has a doctor covering the emergency room from 7
p.m. to 7 a.m. and on weekends. It has some air-conditioned private
rooms, and most doctors are permitted to practice there. The rates
are lower than in the U.S., but due to inadequate nursing care and
lack of supplies, hospitalization is sometimes precarious and rarely
used by the Embassy.
It is advisable to bring to post any medications and
over-the-counter drugs used regularly and to make arrangements with
a U.S. pharmacy for refills. Pharmacies are available in Port-au-
Prince but often stock only European pharmaceuticals. Contraceptives
are available, but not all kinds. It is preferable to bring your
own.
Community Health Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
The level of community sanitation and public cleanliness
throughout the country is far below U.S. standards. Streets in
Port-au-Prince are littered with refuse, and sewage often stagnates
in open gutters. Port-au-Prince's sewerage system is totally
inadequate for the city's needs. The Embassy purchases purified
bottled water, which is distributed to all Embassy housing units.
Local vegetables and fruit that cannot be peeled must be thoroughly
washed and soaked in chlorine solution.
Preventive Measures Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Malaria is a serious problem in rural Haiti. It is recommended
that Embassy personnel take malaria-preventive medication. A supply
is stocked and dispensed by the Embassy. Personnel should arrive
supplied with mosquito repellants and mosquito netting for beds, as
not all housing units have screens.
Other diseases common to Haiti include Hepatitis A and B, typhoid
fever, tuberculosis, venereal disease (including AIDS), intestinal
parasites, dengue fever, polio, and rabies. Due to the high
incidence of some of these diseases, any hired household help should
have a pre-employment physical examination and periodic checkups.
Occasional cases of dysentery, diarrhea, or dengue fever occur
among Americans living in Haiti. Although no vaccinations are
required for entry into the country (unless one is coming from a
Yellow-Fever-infected area), the State Department recommends
inoculations against typhoid fever, tetanus, diphtheria, polio,
hepatitis B, measles, and rabies. Children should be up to date on
all recommended immunizations. Immune globulin is recommended every
4-6 months for prevention of Hepatitis A.
As the local water supply lacks fluoride, supplementation for
children is important to prevent tooth decay. A supply of sunscreen
is essential to prevent skin damage from the tropical rays.
Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 9/9/2005
10:42 AM
Post is eager to utilize the skills and talents of its family
members and has typically been able to successfully hire most of its
family members pursuing employment within the Mission. See Post's
FAMER (Family Member Employment Record) on the Family Liaison Office
intranet website for the most up-to-date job information or contact
the CLO.
In the past few years several of Post's family members have
sought employment with local and international NGOs, UN, USAID, and
CDC. This usually requires prior experience, and in some cases a
Master's, PhD or MD. It is helpful to have French and/or Creole
language skills. Contact the CLO for a complete listing of all
international NGOs.
Qualified elementary and secondary teachers are often able to
find employment at the Union School. Contact the school directly:
Union School P.O. Box 1175 Port-au-Prince, Haiti, telephone
509.211.1251 or, email unionschool@direcway.com.
While no official bilateral work agreement exists between the
U.S. and Haiti there is an existing De Facto Work Arrangement
between the countries. On the basis of de facto reciprocity, family
members of U.S. Government employees assigned to official duty at
Post may apply through a specified channel for a permit to work in
the host country. The U.S. reciprocates by allowing the family
members of foreign officials to work in the U.S. Since this work
arrangement is informal, and there is no written agreement, the
arrangement is subject to unpredictable change because of economic
or political pressures, or even foreign ministry personnel changes.
The procedure for processing a request for a work permit under a
reciprocal arrangement is more complex and lengthy than the
bilateral work agreement process. You should contact the Human
Resources office at the Embassy for more details.
It is imperative to seek Chief of Mission approval if a family
member wishes to work on the local economy or out of their home.
American Embassy - Port-au-Prince
Post City Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:44 AM
Post City
Port-au-Prince is a city with an uninspiring waterfront and
downtown area. The city has expanded onto adjoining hills with
incredible vistas. Currently, the city is a conglomeration of
nondescript office buildings, slums, old Victorian houses with
"gingerbread" trim, modern cement block houses, and million-dollar
homes. While the Haitian people are extremely proud, the city's
social system unofficially divides the populace into a majority of
blacks of African descent called "noirs" and a minority of mixed
ancestry called "mulatres." This division continues to be the basis
for the inequalities so glaringly visible in Port-au-Prince.
The city has few historic sites, but sightseeing is ample for a
short visit. Major attractions are the Episcopal Cathedral with its
Haitian biblical murals, the Catholic Cathedral, the Musee d'Art,
the National Museum or "Pantheon", and many private art galleries.
Haitian handicraft stores feature metal arts created from old oil
drums, many with a delightful sense of humor. There are over 18,000
U.S. citizens registered in Haiti.
Security Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:44 AM
As in any developing country, crime is a chronic problem in
Haiti. Reported incidents of robberies, kidnappings, carjackings,
and burglaries occur in virtually every part of the country,
including the residential areas where Mission personnel reside.
Civil unrest, including marches, demonstrations, and gunfire occurs
with little or no warning.
In response, the Embassy has four permanently assigned DS Special
Agents as Regional Security Officers a 430-person local guard force.
All residences have guards assigned 24 hours daily, 7 days a week.
These are supported by five armed mobile security patrols. Employees
must also make sincere efforts to ensure their own security.
Personnel should be aware of their surroundings at all times.
Criminal activity is prevalent within Port-au-Prince, and many areas
of the city have been placed off limits to Mission personnel and
their dependents. Personnel should be extremely cautious in all
areas of the city and its suburbs, and observe sound security
practices.
Driving in Haiti requires extreme caution, particularly in the
evening hours. Roads are poorly maintained, traffic rules and
courtesies are not observed, and traffic within Port-au-Prince is
often gridlocked. Carjackings, assaults and armed robberies are
common occurrences. Employees traveling outside of Port-au-Prince
must do so during daylight hours, and in tandem with one or more
vehicles if possible, due to the security situation and road
conditions.
A detailed security briefing is required for all arriving
personnel and their dependents.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:45 AM
The American Embassy is the only U.S. diplomatic post in Haiti;
it consists of seven annexes: Chancery; USAID/CDC/APHIS; Consular
Annex; Public Diplomacy; GSO/Warehouse; Peace Corps; and DHS. In
2004, construction of a New Embassy Compound began on the outskirts
of Port-au-Prince in the suburban area of Tabarre. The completion
date is June 2007. The New Embassy Compound will house all of the
previously divided agencies in one building. Post housing will move
nearer to the Tabarre area as well.
An Embassy expediter meets newly arriving personnel at the
airport and assists them through customs and immigration procedures.
New must notify Post's Management Counselor as soon as travel plans
are definite. For security reasons, it is not recommended to take
taxis.
All new arrivals and their adult dependents should bring at least
12 photos for Haitian ID cards, etc.
The Chancery is located at 5, Boulevard Harry Truman (the only
address necessary when giving directions). Chancery telephone
numbers are 509-222-0200/-0354/-1770/-1799/- 0269/-0327, FAX
509-223-1641. A Marine Security Guard is on 24-hour duty at the
Chancery. Also located in the Chancery are: the Defense Attaché
Office (DAO) 509-223-9697; the Coast Guard Liaison Office (CGLO)
509-223-0986 or 255-9695, x-589; the Military Liaison Office (MLO)
509-223-0970; and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) 509-223-8888.
The Consular Annex is located on rue Oswald Durand, about 1 mile
from the Chancery, 509-223-7011, FAX 509-223-8816.
The Office of Public Diplomacy (PD) is located a block from the
Chancery 509-222-1504/5726, FAX 509-223-8324.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is also one block away
from the Chancery, 509-222- 0200 Ext. 8300.
USAID occupies a separate building one-half mile from the
Chancery on Boulevard Harry Truman, 509-222-5500/-5403/-5196/-5930,
FAX 509-223-9603. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC),
509-229-3152/3038, FAX 509-223-9603, and the Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service (APHIS) 509-229-3109/3140 share the building with
USAID.
All American employees are on the payroll of the Charleston
Financial Center.
Housing Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:47 AM
Temporary Quarters
Every effort is made to place personnel in their permanent
housing assignment upon arrival. If the assigned residence is not
yet available, personnel will be placed in temporary quarters or one
of several good-quality hotels until their permanent quarters are
ready.
Permanent Housing
The Ambassador's residence is in Bourdon, a residential
neighborhood about three miles from downtown. Built on a hilltop by
the U.S. Marine Corps, it boasts a large pool, tennis/basketball
court, three expansive lawns, a large patio and terrace, a
three-quarter mile walking path, breathtaking views, and both flower
and vegetable gardens. The DCM resides at Petit-Paradis, a spacious
Government-leased home in Juvenat with an elegant pool and covered
bar terrace for entertaining. The Marine House, located in Pacot, is
about 10 minutes from the Embassy.
All Mission personnel are assigned to government-leased or -owned
housing. This varies from charming old-style houses with high
ceilings, large windows, and obsolete fixtures to apartments,
duplexes and newer houses. Many of the houses and apartment
buildings have swimming pools. All homes are equipped with grills
and safe havens to meet security standards for Port-au-Prince.
Furnishings
Port-au-Prince is a furnished post, and GSO provides all homes
with a standard furniture package. Air-conditioners are provided for
bedrooms and most living space except kitchens and common areas.
Some older Haitian homes are "Caribbean open-air" architecture. In
these homes, living and dining areas may not be air-conditioned. A
refrigerator with freezer or a separate freezer, a gas range, and
washer and dryer are also included. All homes come with generators
on automatic power transfer.
Personnel of all agencies should bring to post or be prepared to
order the following basic items: kitchen utensils, china, glasses,
silverware, table linens, light blankets, pillows, bed linens,
electric fans, multiple outlet plugs, extension cords, and voltage
regulators. A high-quality UPS is essential for computer equipment.
Most household items are available locally but at prices well
above those in the U.S. Attractive wrought iron and wicker furniture
can be made locally if a picture or sketch is provided. Most houses
have tile floors. Rugs add hominess but are not essential. Locally
made sisal or palm straw rugs are available. While some standard
area carpets may be available for issue, carpets are not generally
included in the furniture package. Window coverings are provided for
primary rooms such as living rooms, bedrooms and family rooms.
Utilities and Equipment
The Port-au-Prince water supply is inadequate. All housing
receives water (for requirements other than drinking) by a cistern
and water pump system. While intermittent city water supplements
some cistern storage, water truck deliveries supply almost all
homes. GSO regularly supplies drinking water in five gallon bottles
to all residences.
The electrical system in Port-au-Prince is overburdened, and
outages are frequent. City power is often rationed to various
sections of the city day and night. Embassy homes have
government-owned generators, which are used during power shortages.
Current is 115v, 60 cycles. Transformers are not necessary, but
voltage regulators are useful, and a UPS is invaluable for
sustaining computer function. For large appliances, 110-220v,
60-cycle, three-wire, single-phase, AC current is available.
Domestics are unaccustomed to operating or caring for complicated
appliances, so personnel should bring only those they plan to use
themselves.
Except for the stove, all appliances including the hot water
heater are electrical. External gas tanks supply the gas ranges. GSO
provides cooking gas refills as needed.
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:38 AM
Every effort is made to place personnel in their permanent
housing assignment upon arrival. If the assigned residence is not
yet available, personnel will be placed in temporary quarters or one
of several good-quality hotels until their permanent quarters are
ready.
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:39 AM
The Ambassador's residence is in Bourdon, a residential
neighborhood about three miles from downtown. Built on a hilltop by
the U.S. Marine Corps, it boasts a large pool, tennis/basketball
court, three expansive lawns, a large patio and terrace, a
three-quarter mile walking path, breathtaking views, and both flower
and vegetable gardens. The DCM resides at Petit-Paradis, a spacious
Government-leased home in Juvenat with an elegant pool and covered
bar terrace for entertaining. The Marine House, located in Pacot, is
about 10 minutes from the Embassy.
All Mission personnel are assigned to government-leased or -owned
housing. This varies from charming old-style houses with high
ceilings, large windows, and obsolete fixtures to apartments,
duplexes and newer houses. Many of the houses and apartment
buildings have swimming pools. All homes are equipped with grills
and safe havens to meet security standards for Port-au-Prince.
Furnishings Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:40 AM
Port-au-Prince is a furnished post, and GSO provides all homes
with a standard furniture package. Air-conditioners are provided for
bedrooms and most living space except kitchens and common areas.
Some older Haitian homes are "Caribbean open-air" architecture. In
these homes, living and dining areas may not be air-conditioned. A
refrigerator with freezer or a separate freezer, a gas range, and
washer and dryer are also included. All homes come with generators
on automatic power transfer.
Personnel of all agencies should bring to post or be prepared to
order the following basic items: kitchen utensils, china, glasses,
silverware, table linens, light blankets, pillows, bed linens,
electric fans, multiple outlet plugs, extension cords, and voltage
regulators. A high-quality UPS is essential for computer equipment.
Most household items are available locally but at prices well
above those in the U.S. Attractive wrought iron and wicker furniture
can be made locally if a picture or sketch is provided. Most houses
have tile floors. Rugs add hominess but are not essential. Locally
made sisal or palm straw rugs are available. While some standard
area carpets may be available for issue, carpets are not generally
included in the furniture package. Window coverings are provided for
primary rooms such as living rooms, bedrooms and family rooms.
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:40 AM
The Port-au-Prince water supply is inadequate. All housing
receives water (for requirements other than drinking) by a cistern
and water pump system. While intermittent city water supplements
some cistern storage, water truck deliveries supply almost all
homes. GSO regularly supplies drinking water in five gallon bottles
to all residences.
The electrical system in Port-au-Prince is overburdened, and
outages are frequent. City power is often rationed to various
sections of the city day and night. Embassy homes have
government-owned generators, which are used during power shortages.
Current is 115v, 60 cycles. Transformers are not necessary, but
voltage regulators are useful, and a UPS is invaluable for
sustaining computer function. For large appliances, 110-220v,
60-cycle, three-wire, single-phase, AC current is available.
Domestics are unaccustomed to operating or caring for complicated
appliances, so personnel should bring only those they plan to use
themselves.
Except for the stove, all appliances including the hot water
heater are electrical. External gas tanks supply the gas ranges. GSO
provides cooking gas refills as needed.
Food Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:44 AM
Port-au-Prince offers a surprising variety of food products.
Since the arrival of the U.N., the availability of Latin American,
Asian and Middle Eastern specialty food products has increased.
Normally, there is a fairly wide variety of packaged, canned and
frozen foods. It is also not uncommon to see sour cream, cream
cheese, French and American cheeses, chips, salsa, diet coke, etc.
However, keep in mind many items are imported and retail at prices
well above the U.S. level. Many products are often beyond their peak
upon arrival, and many are past their expiration date as well. The
only types of milk available are: dry, long-life (UHT), and soy
milk.
Local beef, pork and chicken are available, but somewhat below
U.S. standards. A frozen food importer brings in high quality meats
from the U.S, but prices are very high. Local markets will sell the
following vegetables (in season): tomatoes, string beans, peas,
avocados, beets, carrots, eggplant, squash, lettuce, cabbage,
onions, garlic, parsley, artichokes, cauliflower, potatoes, and
radishes. The following fruits are also seasonally available: limes,
papayas, mangoes, oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, pineapples,
bananas, guavas, passion fruit, and various melons.
Uncooked vegetables or unpeeled fruit should be washed and
treated with a chlorine solution as a disinfectant. Most household
help is trained to do this.
Port-au-Prince is currently an authorized consumables post.
Personnel assigned to a 2-year tour are authorized 2,500 pounds
regardless of family size. It is recommended that the consumables
allowance include paper products and disposable items, washing and
cleaning products (including laundry detergent), dry cereals,
decaffeinated coffee (the local Haitian coffee is good but not
available decaffeinated), any preferred canned fruits or vegetables,
and any special spices. Housing storage facilities are generally
adequate.
The Chancery and USAID have a snack bar that serves sandwiches,
salads, daily lunch specials and breakfast.
Clothing Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:48 AM
Lightweight clothing is worn year round, with a sweater or jacket
occasionally useful in winter. The average temperature in
Port-au-Prince is 80°F. Raincoats are not worn, as they are too
warm, but umbrellas are useful. A lightweight sweater or jacket is
needed for trips to the mountains. Local dry cleaning services are
available; however they tend to be harsher than State side dry
cleaning services.
Men
Suits, ties and sport coats are generally worn by Embassy staff
and are also appropriate for some evening social events. Haitian
dress is surprisingly formal. Men wear dark business suits for
professional events, including receptions. Formal evening functions
are rare, but senior officers should bring appropriate apparel. For
men, black or white dinner jackets will suffice. It is advisable to
bring or order clothing from the U.S. Senior officers going to
formal events in the summer should have a light colored cotton suit.
Haitian tradition calls for white suits, but foreign diplomats
increasingly opt for tan suits.
Women
In public, women wear dresses, skirts, blouses, slacks and tops.
Lightweight, washable cottons or synthetic cotton mixtures are most
comfortable. A limited selection of Haitian-embroidered linen
dresses are sold locally but at high prices.
At professional events in the evening, a light suit or cocktail
dress is appropriate. Most entertaining is informal. Evening wear
has become quite casual for women. If you plan to attend the Marine
Ball in November, you should plan to bring a formal dress.
Lingerie is available locally but is very expensive or of second
quality. Nylon lingerie can be too hot for the Port-au-Prince
climate. Hosiery is optional and rarely worn.
Locally made sandals are reasonably priced and available in the
markets, but not very comfortable to wear. It is wise to bring
footwear and tennis shoes from the U.S. Many beaches are stony, and
sea urchins are numerous, so bathing shoes of some type are useful.
Gloves and hats are rarely seen at social functions but
occasionally may be worn at weddings, funerals, or church services.
A limited supply of bathing suits are available locally, but they
are expensive and of poor quality.
Children
Children who attend the Union School wear uniforms. The uniforms
are available exclusively from the school. Be sure to bring a black
belt for the uniform. Tennis shoes are appropriate for footwear.
Play clothes are worn to children's parties. Most teenage
entertaining is casual, but an occasional function may require a
jacket. The availability of beaches and pools means it is wise to
bring a generous supply of swimwear, beach toys and towels.
Men Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Suits and ties are generally worn by Embassy staff and are also
appropriate in the more expensive restaurants and for most evening
social events. For formal morning occasions, men wear dark business
suits. Formal evening functions are rare, but senior officers should
bring appropriate apparel. For men, black or white dinner jackets
will suffice. It is advisable to bring or order clothing from the
U.S.
Women Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
In public, women wear dresses, skirts and blouses, or slacks and
tops. Lightweight, washable cottons or synthetic cotton mixtures are
most comfortable. A limited selection of Haitian-embroidered linen
dresses is sold locally but at high prices.
Most entertaining is informal. Evening wear has become quite
casual for women. They may occasionally need cocktail dresses and
should bring a long dress for formal functions, like the annual
Marine Ball.
Lingerie is available locally but is very expensive or of second
quality. Nylon lingerie can be too hot for the Port-au-Prince
climate. Hosiery is optional and rarely worn.
Locally made sandals are reasonably priced and available in the
markets, but not very comfortable to wear. It is wise to bring other
footwear and tennis shoes from the U.S. Many beaches are stony, and
sea urchins are numerous, so bathing shoes of some type are useful.
Gloves and hats are rarely seen at social functions but
occasionally may be worn at weddings, funerals, or church services.
A limited supply of bathing suits is available locally, but they are
expensive and of poor quality.
Children Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Children in all grades at Union School wear uniforms. The
uniforms are available exclusively from the school. Play clothes are
worn to children's parties. Most teenage entertaining is casual, but
an occasional function may require a jacket. The availability of
beaches and pools means it is wise to bring a generous supply of
swimwear, beach toys, and towels.
Supplies and Services Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:45 AM
Supplies
Most well known brands of American toiletries and cosmetics are
available but are much more expensive. French and European
toiletries and cosmetics are also available. It is wise to include
preferred brands of shampoo, toothpaste, vitamins, and drugstore
items in the consumables shipment. Be sure to send pool equipment
such as a vacuum, nets, brush, etc. (check with GSO to see if they
are already at your home) as they are very expensive in Haiti.
Grills (both gas and charcoal) are very expensive in Haiti, so
grillers should plan ahead and ship their own.
Families with school-age children should bring basic school
supplies (notebooks, paper, pencils, rulers, erasers and an agenda
book, etc.), since those on the local market are expensive and not
of good quality.
Haitian fabric material is of poor quality, and imported fabrics
are available but expensive. Craft supplies (knitting wool, patterns
and needles, crochet materials, needlepoint yarns, paints, brushes,
easels, sewing fabrics, threads, etc) are difficult to find. It is
advantageous to bring ample supplies for favorite activities, as
Haiti provides the time to pursue these special interests.
Also bring flutes, violins, violas, guitars, and drums; and don't
forget the sheet music. The Episcopal Cathedral has a philharmonic
orchestra that welcomes expatriates and give periodic concerts.
Embassy musicians, when they find each other, often enjoy getting
together for some chamber music or a jam session.
Basic Services
Tailoring is inadequate for most types of men's clothing. Prices
for low-quality tailor-made suits are reasonable, but most personnel
prefer clothing retailed in the U.S.
Dressmakers are available. Shoe repair often takes place on the
street and is quite satisfactory. Dry cleaning service is available.
Most Embassy personnel have household help to do the laundry and
ironing.
Beauty shops are available and offer services such as haircuts,
coloring, facials, massages, waxing, etc. While hair coloring
services are offered it is advisable to bring your preferred color
with you.
Reliable radio, stereo, TV and VCR repair is very difficult to
obtain. Parts are scarce, and technical capability is low.
In all of these service areas, language ability, or lack thereof,
usually compounds any problem.
Domestic Help
Domestic help is readily available. A competent, full-time cook,
maid or nanny receives ~US $100 - 150 (some people pay in gourdes
others in US dollars), plus allowances for transport and/or food
depending on whether the employee lives-in or out. Maids who do not
cook are paid less, and gardeners are paid proportionate to the
number of days they work. Most domestics do not understand English
but generally can get by in French. This can cause frustration in
communicating with household staff.
Supplies Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Most well known brands of American toiletries and cosmetics are
available but much more expensive. French and European toiletries
and cosmetics are also available. It is wise to include preferred
brands of shampoo, toothpaste, vitamins, and drugstore items in the
consumables shipment. Also send pool equipment such as vacuum, nets,
brush, etc., as they are expensive in Haiti, if they can be obtained
at all.
Families with school-age children should bring basic school
supplies (notebooks, paper, pencils, etc.), since those on the local
market are expensive and not of good quality.
Haitian fabric material is of poor quality, and imported fabrics
are available but expensive. Craft supplies (knitting wool, patterns
and needles, crochet materials, needlepoint yarns, paints, brushes,
easels, sewing fabrics, threads, etc.) are difficult to find. It is
advantageous to bring ample supplies for favorite activities, as
Haiti provides the time to pursue these special interests.
Also bring flutes, violins, violas, guitars, and drums; and don't
forget the sheet music. The Episcopal Cathedral has a philharmonic
orchestra that welcomes expatriates and gives periodic concerts.
Embassy musicians, when they find each other, often enjoy getting
together for some chamber music or a jam session.
Basic Services Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Tailoring is inadequate for most types of men's clothing. Prices
for low-quality tailor-made suits are reasonable, but most personnel
prefer clothing retailed in the U.S.
Dressmakers are available. Shoe repair often takes place on the
street and is quite satisfactory. Dry cleaning service is available.
Most Embassy personnel have household help to do the laundry and
ironing.
Good beauty shops are more expensive than in the U.S. They offer
hair coloring service, but it is advisable to bring your preferred
color with you.
Reliable radio, stereo, TV and VCR repair is very difficult to
obtain. Parts are scarce, and technical capability is low.
In all of these service areas, language ability, or lack thereof,
usually compounds any problem.
Domestic Help Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Domestic help is readily available. A competent, full-time cook
receives anywhere from 450 to 675 Haitian dollars per month
(US$100-US$150 at 2001 exchange rates), plus allowances for
transport and/or food depending on whether the employee lives in or
out. Maids who do not cook are paid less, and gardeners are paid
proportionate to the number of days they work. Most domestics do not
understand English; many do not understand French. This often causes
difficulty in dealing with household staff.
Religious Activities Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:46 AM
Haiti is predominately a Roman Catholic country. Parish churches
are located throughout the city, and the Port-au-Prince Cathedral is
in the city center. Mass is traditionally said in French or Creole.
An English Mass is held at 9:30 Sunday morning at the Villa Manrese
in the Turgeau area.
Protestant services are held on Sunday mornings at the Episcopal
Church of St. James in Petionville and at the Quisqueya Chapel, a
nondenominational church in Port-au-Prince. The Quisqueya Chapel
also has Sunday school classes, Bible study groups, and a Sunday
evening worship service. Services are held on Saturday mornings at
the Church of the Adventist University of Haiti in Diquini.
Members of the Jewish and Muslim communities usually hold
services in their homes.
Voudou (voodoo) plays a central part in the religious life of
many Haitians. It is essentially a bringing together of beliefs and
rituals of African origin, loosely tied to Catholic practices. Some
understanding of voodoo is essential to an understanding of Haiti.
Education Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:49 AM
Dependent Education
At Post
The Haitian school system includes primary through university
levels and is based on the French system, with classes taught in
French or Creole. Embassy children seldom attend Haitian schools
beyond the nursery or kindergarten level.
Most American Embassy children in Port-au-Prince attend the Union
School, a fully accredited school. Classes are taught in English,
with French a required subject in all grades at the elementary
level. Spanish is also offered beginning in grade 10. The Union
School is open to all nationalities and offers a program from Pre-K
through grade 12. It has a capacity of 400 children and should be
notified well in advance of enrollment plans for arriving children,
particularly if they involve a midterm transfer. The majority of the
student body consists of citizens of Haiti, supplemented by a small
American and expatriate population.
When planning enrollment in the Union School, students should
bring with them complete school records, including report cards and
test results. Tuition fees, for kindergarten through grade 12 , are
covered by the post educational allowance. A one-time application
fee of $150 per child is nonreimbursable. School hours are from 7:45
a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The school year normally begins toward the end of
August and finishes in early June. Students at the Union School wear
uniforms from kindergarten through grade 12, as do children in all
Haitian schools. Children attending the Union School ordinarily have
no difficulty transferring to U.S. schools.
The Union School has a Learning Center for children with very
mild learning difficulties. The school is generally recognized to
have an adequate elementary program. Its high school curriculum has
an advanced placement program, but there is no international
baccalaureate available.
The Quisqueya Christian School also provides English-language
schooling from kindergarten through grade 12. The school is open to
all nationalities and is attended by many American missionary
children. It has an enrollment of about 200, and the staff are
American educated. The school was founded "to provide American-style
Christian education primarily for the English-speaking children of
North American Protestant missionaries residing in Port-au-Prince."
Their mission is to minister to these children "in their educational
and spiritual needs by providing them with a Christ-centered
education." The school's admission policy is somewhat stringent.
Security restrictions can make access to this school problematic or
impossible at times.
From time to time some Embassy children have attended the
Alexander-Payne Preparatory School, a tiny, private day school
offering educational programs from pre-kindergarten through grade
12. A fully trained U.S. citizen teacher runs this program from her
home. Enrollment is typically between five and ten students. The
program is not accredited and there are no sports or after-hours
programs. Instruction is in English with U.S. materials.
Under certain circumstances, a special allowance rate may be
granted for a "home course" in lieu of attendance at a local school.
Away From Post
Post is provided with an "away from post" education allowance for
grades 9 -12 for personnel who to prefer their children to study in
the U.S. or elsewhere.
Higher Education Opportunities
Creole, French, German, and Spanish classes for adults are taught
at local language facilities. Private tutors are also available for
these languages.
Classes are available for voice and most musical instruments
(piano, violin, viola, and guitar) and for ballet, jazz, tap,
Haitian dance, ballroom dance, and Spanish dance. Health clubs and
studios offer adult and children's classes in aerobics, judo, and
karate. Painting and sculpture lessons are available at local art
studios. Many Haitian children take dance and instrumental lessons.
Dependent Education
At Post Last Updated: 11/14/2003 11:01 AM The Haitian school
system includes primary through university levels and is based on
the French system, with classes taught in French or Creole. Embassy
children seldom attend Haitian schools beyond the nursery or
kindergarten level.
Most American Embassy children in Port-au-Prince attend the
SACS-accredited Union School. Classes are taught in English, with
French a required subject in all grades at the elementary level.
Spanish is also offered beginning in grade 10. The Union School is
open to all nationalities and offers a program from preschool
through grade 12. It has a capacity of 244 children and should be
notified well in advance of enrollment plans for arriving children,
particularly if they involve a midterm transfer.
When planning enrollment in the Union School, students should
bring with them complete school records, including report cards and
test results. Tuition fees, for kindergarten through grade 12 only,
are covered by the post educational allowance. A one-time
application fee of $150 per child is nonreimbursable. School hours
are from 7:45 a.m. to 2:48 p.m. The school year normally begins
toward the end of August and finishes in early June. Students at the
Union School wear uniforms from kindergarten through grade 12, as do
children in all Haitian schools. Children attending the Union School
ordinarily have no difficulty transferring to U.S. schools.
The Union School has a Learning Center for children with mild to
merate learning difficulties, and it is generally recognized to have
a very good elementary school program. Its high school curriculum
has an advanced placement program, but there is no international
baccalaureate available.
The Quisqueya Christian School also provides English-language
schooling from kindergarten through grade 12. The school is open to
all nationalities and is attended by many American missionary
children. It has an enrollment of about 200, and the staff are
American educated. The school was founded "to provide American-style
Christian education primarily for the English-speaking children of
North American Protestant missionaries residing in Port-au-Prince."
Their mission is to minister to these children "in their educational
and spiritual needs by providing them with a Christ-centered
education." The school's admission policy is somewhat stringent.
In 1999, some Embassy children began attending the
Alexander-Payne Preparatory School, a small private co-educational
day school offering educational programs from pre-kindergarten
through grade 12. The curriculum is that of a U.S.-style general
academic and college-preparatory public school. Instruction is in
English. The elementary school currently uses the Calvert home
instruction program. The high school curriculum is conducted in
conjunction with the University of Nebraska Independent High School,
located in Lincoln, Nebraska. There is no Physical Education or
Athletics program. Please note, however, that the school is not
U.S.-accredited. All teachers, though not certified, have previous
teaching experience.
Under certain circumstances, a special allowance rate may be
granted for a "home course" in lieu of attendance at a local school.
Currently, Embassy transportation to and from school is only
provided for the Union School.
Away From Post Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM Some Government
personnel prefer to send their children to school in the U.S.,
particularly for the high school years. Choice of school is made by
parents, conditioned on the child's acceptance. Augmented post
allowances are provided for "away from post" education for grades 9
to 12.
Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Creole, French, German, and Spanish classes for adults are taught
at local language facilities. Private tutors are also available for
these languages.
There are classes available for voice and most musical
instruments (piano, violin, viola, and guitar) and for ballet, jazz,
tap, and Spanish dance. Health clubs and studios offer adult and
children's classes in aerobics, judo, and karate. Painting and
sculpture lessons are available at local art studios. The music
specialist at the Union School also gives piano lessons. Many
Haitian children take dance and instrumental lessons. Owing to the
popularity of the programs, newly arrived children are sometimes put
on waiting lists for lesson openings.
Recreation and Social Life Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:40 AM
Sports
Sports activities in Haiti are found primarily in private clubs.
(There are no organized sports facilities such as the YMCA.) The
Petionville Club, about 3 miles from downtown Port-au-Prince, sits
on a hill overlooking the bay, and its grounds adjoin the
Ambassador's residence. Included in its 145 acres are a rugged
nine-hole golf course, six tennis courts (four lighted), a 75-foot
swimming pool (which can be enjoyed by children), and a clubhouse
with dance floor, dining, bar, and locker accommodations. Membership
is available to Mission personnel at a reduced rate. Charges include
an initiation fee, monthly dues, and a quarterly consumption charge.
There are some tennis clubs in Port-au-Prince open to Mission
personnel. These often have social facilities available in addition
to the tennis courts. Most clubs require an initiation fee and/or
monthly dues.
Personnel are advised to bring their own athletic equipment to
post. Tennis and golf balls are sold locally but at a higher price.
In 2004 a rugged walking path was completed around the
Ambassador's residence. The path is approximately three-quarters of
a mile in length and is open to official personnel and their family
members. You may also book a time slot on the Ambassador's sports
court (tennis or basketball) by reservation. On Wednesday evenings
and Saturday mornings, Mission personnel gather to play basketball
at the Ambassador's residence.
There is an active Hash House Harriers group in Port-au-Prince
that meets every other Saturday for runs/walks.
Touring and Outdoor Activities
A great deal of Haiti's outdoor life centers on its coastal
waters and beaches. There are safe and pleasant beaches about a
90-minute drive from Port-au-Prince, and a number of these beaches
have overnight and restaurant facilities. Swimming and snorkeling
are ideal for all ages.
Scuba diving is popular in Haiti, but divers should bring their
own tanks. There is one place in Port-au-Prince that will refill
tanks, but only up to 2,200 pounds, unless you have your own
compressor. The Cormier Plage Beach Resort, adjacent to Cap Haitien
on the north coast, rents equipment. The most popular diving
locations are in Les Arcadins, a two-hour drive north of
Port-au-Prince. Scuba-diving instruction for certification at both
beginning and advanced levels is available at Pegasus Services next
door to the Kaliko Beach Club. The cost for a basic PADI
certification is US$350.
Some members of the international community own sailboats and
motorboats, and there is a small marina at Ibo Beach.
Unstable political conditions have restricted the formerly good
hunting for ducks, guinea hens, wild pigeons, and doves. Hunters
should check with the Regional Security Officer because regulations
change.
Kenscoff (45 minutes from Port-au- Prince) is a town at an
altitude of 4,500 feet, set in mountains as high as 6,500 feet. The
weather is cool year round and may even be cold in the winter.
Although the road has suffered wear and tear, people enjoy visiting
Kenscoff on weekends. There are some wonderful places to hike. The
scenery in the mountains is extraordinary, and travelers like to
stop en route to visit the Baptist Mission's arts-and-crafts shop
and have lunch in its pleasant restaurant. For historic content,
Forts Jacques and Alexandre can be added to the itinerary.
Cap Haitien (157 miles from Port-au-Prince, 7 hours by car),
Haiti's second largest city, is of primary interest because of its
historic past. The famed Citadelle Laferriere, often referred to as
the "eighth wonder of the world," was built in the early 19th
century on a 3,000-foot peak overlooking Cap Haitien. Below the
Citadelle is Milot, where one can visit the ruins of Henri
Christophe's Sans Souci Palace. Above Milot, horses can be rented
for the uphill ride to the Citadelle. Cap Haitien has adequate hotel
facilities, with two very pleasant seaside resorts nearby.
Jacmel (73 miles from Port-au-Prince, 3 hours by car) is on the
southern peninsula and well known for its beaches. It is a
picturesque town with turn-of-the-century architecture, a small iron
market, and a few small art galleries. Jacmel has beaches inside the
town and nearby at Carrefour Raymond. The town offers a wide variety
of lodging, from bed and breakfasts to hotels with restaurants. The
road to Jacmel is in good condition.
Les Cayes (125 miles from Port-au- Prince, 4 hours by car) is the
principal city of the southern peninsula and the third largest city
in Haiti. The city itself has little to offer, but the road from the
capital passes through beautiful and interesting country. One of the
best beaches in Haiti, Port-Salut, is nearby and has a restaurant
and hotel. Les Cayes has two satisfactory hotels, one on the
outskirts and one in the city. Les Cayes is also the jumping off
point to Ile a Vache, a beautiful, refreshing island resort about an
hour offshore.
Entertainment
The Haitian art scene has attracted worldwide attention since
1946, when English teacher DeWitt Peters brought Hector Hippolyte,
Philomene Obin, and other greats of Haiti's primitive art scene to
the attention of the world's art establishment. One of the unique
experiences of living in Haiti is the chance to visit the studios
and galleries of the artists carrying on this fascinating tradition.
Haiti has no concert or theater series, but the Philharmonic
Orchestra of Saint Trinite Cathedral presents seasonal concerts of
classical music. The cathedral provides a locale for the
all-too-rare performances by visiting soloists or chamber groups. On
occasion, the Ambassador hosts visiting talents in performances at
the residence.
The Musee d'Art Haitien, on the Champs-de-Mars, houses both
standing and rotating art exhibits.
Private art galleries abound in the Port-au-Prince area, but one
that holds a special place in Haitian hearts is the Jean- Rene
Jerome Museum, opened in the mid-1980s to honor the much-revered
artist.
There are few archeological sites in Haiti, but the late Dr.
William Hodges of the Good Samaritan Hospital in Limbe, during his
30-year career in the country, had as an avocation a search for the
site where Columbus landed his first expedition on the north coast.
If one is traveling to Cap Haitien by car, a stopover to visit Dr.
Hodges' small museum in Limbe should be considered. For the real
enthusiast, a journey to the east of Cap Haitien takes one to the
site that Dr. Hodges' research led him to conclude was the actual
spot where Columbus established the first colony in the New World.
Video clubs in Port-au-Prince feature both videos and DVDs. The
Community Liaison Officer at the Embassy has a video lending library
although the selection is limited. The Marine Security Guard
detachment receives and shows U.S. films at the Marine House on an
intermittent basis. Many Embassy personnel have begun to subscribe
to NetFlix renting and returning DVDs through the pouch.
There are a number of good restaurants in the area. Excellent
French cuisine and exotic Caribbean fusion cooking can be had at the
pricier establishments. The larger hotels have dining rooms that
feature special buffets, Sunday brunches, and an occasional
floorshow. A few nightclubs provide Haitian or disco music, and
there
are two hotel casinos.
Coverage of the entertainment scene in Haiti cannot neglect
Carnival where dancing in the streets takes place every Sunday after
Christmas and culminates in Mardi Gras, the 2 days before Ash
Wednesday. Musical groups called Rara bands dance across the
countryside during the pre-Lenten season. Many Haitians join in
these singing and dancing festivities, and drinking is excessive.
Things tend to become rowdy, and foreigners usually prefer to watch
these celebrations on TV.
Social Activities
Most entertaining takes place informally in the home. Single
people generally find sports clubs or outdoor activities the most
satisfactory way to socialize. As most Haitians do not receive high
salaries, it is often difficult for them to return hospitality.
There is an International Women's Association of Haiti (IWAH) that
meets monthly. It provides a welcome to new American Mission women,
sponsors seasonal parties for the children, and is open to any
activities or projects for which members indicate enthusiasm. The
local churches have groups to which all are welcome to join.
Sports Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Sports activities in Haiti are found primarily in private clubs.
(There are no organized sports facilities such as the YMCA.) The
Petionville Club, about 3 miles from downtown Port-au-Prince, is on
a hill overlooking the bay, and its grounds adjoin the Ambassador's
residence. Included in its 145 acres are a rugged nine-hole golf
course, six tennis courts (four lighted), a 75-foot swimming pool
(which can be enjoyed by children), and a clubhouse with dance
floor, dining, bar, and locker accommodations. Membership is
available to Mission personnel. Charges include an initiation fee,
monthly dues, and a quarterly consumption charge. There are some
tennis clubs in Port-au-Prince open to Mission personnel. These
often have social facilities available in addition to the tennis
courts. Most clubs require an initiation fee and/or monthly dues.
Personnel are advised to bring their own athletic equipment to
post. Tennis and golf balls are sold locally but at a higher price.
Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
A great deal of Haiti's outdoor life centers on its coastal
waters and beaches. There are safe and pleasant beaches about a
60-minute drive from Port-au-Prince, and a number of these beaches
have overnight and restaurant facilities. Swimming and snorkeling
are ideal for all ages.
Scuba diving is popular in Haiti, but divers should bring their
own tanks. There is one place in Port-au-Prince that will refill
tanks, but only up to 2,200 pounds, unless you have your own
compressor. The Cormier Plage Beach Resort, adjacent to Cap Haitien
on the north coast, rents equipment. The most popular diving
locations are in Les Arcadins, a two-hour drive north of
Port-au-Prince. Scuba-diving instruction for certification at both
beginning and advanced levels is available at Pegasus Services next
door to the Kaliko Beach Club. The cost for a basic PADI
certification is US$350.
Some members of the international community own sailboats and
motorboats, and there is a small marina at Ibo Beach.
Unstable political conditions have restricted the formerly good
hunting for ducks, guinea hens, wild pigeons, and doves. Hunters
should check with the Regional Security Officer because regulations
change.
Kenscoff (45 minutes from Port-au- Prince) is a town at an
altitude of 4,500 feet, set in mountains as high as 6,500 feet. It
is cool year round and may even be cold in winter. Although the road
has suffered wear and tear, people enjoy visiting Kenscoff on
weekends. There are some wonderful places to hike. The scenery in
the mountains is extraordinary, and travelers like to stop en route
to visit the Baptist Fermathe Mission's arts-and-crafts shop and
have lunch in its pleasant restaurant. For historic content, Forts
Jacques and Alexandre can be added to the itinerary.
Cap Haitien (157 miles from Port-au-Prince, 7 hours by car),
Haiti's second largest city, is of primary interest because of its
historic past. The famed Citadelle Laferriere, often referred to as
the "eighth wonder of the world," was built in the early 19th
century on a 3,000-foot peak overlooking Cap Haitien. Below the
Citadelle is Milot, where one can visit the ruins of Henri
Christophe's Sans Souci Palace. Above Milot, horses can be rented
for the uphill ride to the Citadelle. Cap Haitien has adequate hotel
facilities, with two very pleasant seaside resorts nearby.
Jacmel (73 miles from Port-au-Prince, 3 hours by car) is on the
southern peninsula and well known for its beaches. It is a
picturesque town with turn-of-the-century architecture, a small iron
market, and a few small art galleries. Jacmel has beaches inside the
town and nearby at Carrefour Raymond. The town offers a wide variety
of lodging, from bed and breakfasts to hotels with restaurants. The
road to Jacmel is in good condition.
Les Cayes (125 miles from Port-au- Prince, 4 hours by car) is the
principal city of the southern peninsula and the third largest city
in Haiti. The city itself has little to offer, but the road from the
capital passes through beautiful and interesting country. One of the
best beaches in Haiti, Port-Salut, is nearby and has a restaurant
and hotel. Les Cayes has two satisfactory hotels, one on the
outskirts and one in the city.
Entertainment Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
The Haitian art scene has attracted worldwide attention since
1946, when English teacher DeWitt Peters brought Hector Hippolyte,
Philomene Obin, and other greats of Haiti's primitive art scene to
the attention of the world's art establishment. One of the unique
experiences of living in Haiti is the chance to visit the studios
and galleries of the artists carrying on this fascinating tradition.
Haiti has no concert or theater series, but the Philharmonic
Orchestra of Saint Trinite Cathedral presents seasonal concerts of
classical music. The cathedral provides a locale for the
all-too-rare performances by visiting soloists or chamber groups. On
occasion, the Ambassador hosts visiting talent in performance at the
residence.
The Musee d'Art Haitien, on the Champs-de-Mars, houses both
standing and rotating art exhibits.
Private art galleries abound in the Port-au-Prince area, but one
that holds a special place in Haitian hearts is the Jean- Rene
Jerome Museum, opened in the mid-1980s to honor the much-revered
artist.
There are few archeological sites in Haiti, but the late Dr.
William Hodges of the Good Samaritan Hospital in Limbe, during his
30-year career in the country, had as an avocation a search for the
site where Columbus landed his first expedition on the north coast.
If one is traveling to Cap Haitien by car, a stopover to visit Dr.
Hodges' small museum in Limbe should be considered. For the real
enthusiast, a journey to the east of Cap Haitien takes one to the
site that Dr. Hodges' research led him to conclude was the actual
spot where Columbus established the first colony in the New World.
Port-au-Prince has several movie houses, of which the Imperial is
considered the largest and most comfortable. Most films shown are
French films, and even American films are dubbed in French. Video
clubs in Port-au-Prince feature both VHS and Beta systems. The
Community Liaison Officer at the Embassy has a video lending library
although the selection is limited and stagnant. The Marine Security
Guard detachment receives and shows U.S. films at the Marine House
on an intermittent basis, frequently following a Friday evening
"happy hour."
There are a number of good restaurants in the area. Excellent
French cuisine can be had at the pricier establishments. The larger
hotels have dining rooms that feature special buffets, Sunday
brunches, and an occasional floorshow. A few nightclubs provide
Haitian or disco music, and there are two hotel casinos.
Coverage of the entertainment scene in Haiti cannot neglect
Carnival where dancing in the streets takes place every Sunday after
Christmas and culminates in Mardi Gras, the 2 days before Ash
Wednesday. Musical groups called Rara bands dance across the
countryside during the pre-Lenten season. Many Haitians join in
these singing and dancing festivities, and drinking is excessive.
Things tend to become rowdy, and foreigners usually prefer to watch
these celebrations on TV.
Social Activities Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Most entertaining takes place informally in the home. Single
people generally find sports clubs or outdoor activities the most
satisfactory way to socialize. As most Haitians do not receive high
salaries, it is often difficult for them to return hospitality.
There is an International Women's Association of Haiti (IWAH) that
meets monthly. It provides a welcome to new American Mission women,
sponsors seasonal parties for the children, and is open to any
activities or projects for which members indicate enthusiasm. The
local churches have women's groups to which all are welcome to join.
The Quisqueya Chapel sponsors periodic men's breakfasts at a local
hotel. These are open to all men in the community.
Official Functions Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:39 AM
Except for the Ambassador, the DCM, and a few senior officers who
give and attend functions involving officials and members of the
diplomatic corps, most official entertaining is limited to Haitian
business, educational, and professional people. Formal dress is not
required, but black-tie dinners are occasionally held at the
ambassadorial level.
Nature of Functions
Except for the Ambassador, the DCM, and a few senior officers who
give and attend functions involving officials and members of the
diplomatic corps, most official entertaining is limited to Haitian
business, educational, and professional people. Formal dress is not
required, but black-tie dinners are occasionally held at the
ambassadorial level.
Standards of Social Conduct
Newly arriving officers are advised to have calling cards made
before coming to Haiti, as they are widely used in contacts with
Haitians and other diplomatic missions. Cards can be printed
locally, but prices are high. Appropriated funds are not available
for business or calling cards. However, R&R (Reception and
Representation) appropriations are available for business cards for
employees whose jobs include representation. Suggested quantities
are: Ambassador, 500 cards; DCM, 200 cards; other officers, 100
cards. "Mr. and Mrs." cards and informal note cards are also useful.
Nature of Functions Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Except for the Ambassador, the DCM, and a few senior officers who
give and attend functions involving officials and members of the
diplomatic corps, most official entertaining is limited to Haitian
business, educational, and professional people. Formal dress is not
required, but black-tie dinners are occasionally held at the
ambassadorial level.
Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Newly arriving officers are advised to have calling cards made
before coming to Haiti, as they are widely used in contacts with
Haitians and other diplomatic missions. Cards can be printed
locally, but prices are high. Appropriated funds are not available
for business or calling cards. However, R&R (Reception and
Representation) appropriations are available for business cards for
employees whose jobs include representation. Suggested quantities
are: Ambassador, 500 cards; DCM, 200 cards; other officers, 100
cards. "Mr. and Mrs." cards and informal note cards are also useful.
Special Information Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:49 AM
Post Orientation Program
Agency heads brief new staff members upon their arrival. The
Community Liaison Office (CLO) arranges periodic orientation
seminars and trips to help new staff and their family members become
acquainted with the Embassy and Port-au-Prince. New arrivals are
assigned a sponsor, and the post provides a Welcome Kit of essential
household items to be used until the employee's air shipment and HHE
arrive. French and/or Creole language classes may be held at the
Embassy, depending on availability of funds.
Notes For Travelers
Getting to the Post Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:50 AM
Getting to the Post
Include clothing suitable for a tropical climate as well as
personal item in both accompanied baggage and airfreight shipment.
An adequate amount of household items will be in Post's Welcome Kit
to allow you to perform daily household functions. These items
include but are not limited to a limited supply of everyday china,
silverware, towels, washcloths, pots and pans, cleaning utensils and
linens. Personnel should be aware that the arrival of airfreight
shipments to Haiti could take up to 6 weeks. You are encouraged to
ship your UAB at least two weeks before arrival at Post.
Customs, Duties, and Passage Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:51 AM
Customs and Duties
All U.S. personnel are entitled to duty-free importation of
personal-use articles. All surface shipments must have an original
bill of lading. Haitian customs are somewhat haphazard; delays in
receiving shipments often occur after shipments arrive in country.
Passage
Surface shipments from the U.S. must be sent via the U.S.
Despatch Agent. Notify the Embassy or appropriate agency in advance
of each shipment coming to post. An original bill of lading should
accompany each surface freight shipment.
As shipments do NOT have to enter the country under the
Ambassador's name, address them as follows:
American Embassy
Port-au-Prince, HAITI
For: (Employee's Name)
All shipments must be cleared through Haitian Customs, a
procedure that usually takes about 2 weeks. Send items needed upon
arrival by airfreight as far in advance as possible. Use the
airfreight (unaccompanied baggage) allowance to the fullest. Send
the necessary documentation for airfreight shipments to the Embassy
as soon as possible.
For information on automobiles, see Transportation-Automobiles.
Pets
GSO provides limited assistance in handling pets. If you are
planning to bring a pet to post, you must check airline restrictions
on pet travel and make reservations well in advance. All pets are
required to have a recent veterinarian's clearance and International
Certificate of Health stating they have had a current rabies
vaccination and are free from disease. For further information,
consult OTO (Travel) before bringing a pet. There is good veterinary
care at Post.
Please note, American Airlines does not exempt diplomats from the
pet embargo. During the summer months (generally May 15 - September
15) cats and dogs cannot be sent via cargo to Port-au-Prince. If the
animal is small enough American Airlines will allow a small number
of pets to travel in the passenger cabin. However, it is essential
to make these reservations well in advance. More recently, there
have been temperature restrictions imposed by American Airlines. If
any points of travel are above 75°F Fahrenheit (lower for snub nosed
dogs and cats) American Airlines will not allow the animal(s) to
travel as cargo. For more details, contact American Airlines.
Customs and Duties Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
All U.S. personnel are entitled to duty-free importation of
personal-use articles. All surface shipments should have a consular
invoice and original bill of lading. Haitian customs is somewhat
haphazard; delays in receiving shipments often occur after shipments
arrive in country.
Passage Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
Surface shipments from the U.S. should be sent via the U.S.
Despatch Agent. Notify the Embassy or appropriate agency in advance
of each shipment coming to post. An original bill of lading should
accompany each surface freight shipment.
As shipments do not have to enter the country under the
Ambassador's name, address them as follows:
American Embassy Port-au-Prince, HAITI For: (Employee's Name)
All shipments must be cleared through Haitian Customs, a
procedure that usually takes about 2 weeks. Send items needed upon
arrival by airfreight as far in advance as possible. Use the
airfreight (unaccompanied baggage) allowance to the fullest. Send
the necessary documentation for airfreight shipments to the Embassy
as soon as possible.
For information on automobiles, see Transportation—Automobiles.
Pets Last Updated: 10/31/2002 6:00 PM
All pets are required to have a recent veterinarian's clearance
stating that they have had a current rabies vaccination and are free
from disease. For further information, consult the General Services
Office (GSO) before shipping a pet. American Airlines does not
exempt diplomats from the pet embargo during the summer months and
cats cannot be shipped to Port-au-Prince during the period May 15
thru September 15.
Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:54 AM
Any employee desiring to bring a weapon to post is required to
have the authorization of the Chief of Mission prior to shipping any
weapon for personal or official use. Requesting this authorization
may be done via cable through the RSO Office, and should include the
make, model, and serial number of the weapon(s) along with a
description of intended use. It should be noted that authorization
to import a weapon does not confer the right to carry the weapon
outside the home or office.
Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated:
9/9/2005 9:55 AM
The Haitian Government permits a free market exchange of U.S.
dollars for Gourdes, the Haitian monetary unit. Most prices in Haiti
are quoted in Haitian dollars, where one Haitian Dollar (a
nonexistent currency) equals 5 Haitian Gourdes. The metric system of
weights and measures is the official standard. U.S. weights and
measures are also widely used.
Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property Last Updated: 9/9/2005
10:52 AM
Restrictions
Embassy personnel have duty-free entry privileges. If personal
possessions or automobiles are sold to anyone without these
privileges, Haitian law requires that one of the parties to the sale
must pay the duty. For information on automobiles, see
Transportation-Automobiles.
Recommended Reading Last Updated: 9/9/2005 10:56 AM
These titles are provided as a general indication of the material
published in this country. The Department of State does not endorse
unofficial publications.
Much of the literature about Haiti is available only in French.
The following is a suggested reading list of books in English.
Particularly recommended works are in bold face.
The more recent titles can be found in bookstores. Books
published before 1989 may be available only in libraries. An
asterisk indicates novels and collections of short stories.
Abbott, Elizabeth. Haiti: The Duvaliers and Their Legacy.
McGraw-Hill: New York, 1989.
Courlander, Harold. *The Drum and the Hoe. University of
California Press: Berkeley, 1981.
Courlander, Harold. The Bordeaux Narrative. University of New
Mexico Press: Albuquerque, 1990.
Danner, Mark. "Beyond the Mountains" (three parts). The New
Yorker, 27 November 1989, 4 December 1989, 11 December 1989.
Dunham, Katherine. Dances of Haiti. Afro American Studies Center:
Los Angeles, 1983.
Ferguson, James. Papa Doc, Baby Doc, Haiti and the Duvaliers.
Basil Blackwell: London, 1987.
Gold, Herbert. Best Nightmare on Earth: A Life in Haiti. Prentice
Hall: New York, 1991.
Gold, Herbert. My Last Two Thousand Years. New York, 1972.
Greene, Graham. *The Comedians. Viking: New York, 1966.
Haggerty, Richard A., ed. The Dominican Republic and Haiti. Area
Studies Handbook Series. U.S. Government Printing Office:
Washington, DC, 1991.
Heinl, Robert D., Jr. and Nancy G. Heinl. Written in Blood: The
History of Haiti From 1492 to 1971.Houghton-Mifflin: New York, 1978.
Laguerre, Michael S. The Complete Haitian: A Bibliographic Guide
to the Scholarship Literature (1900- 1980). 2 volumes. New York,
1982.
Lawyers Committee on Human Rights. Paper Laws/Steel Bayonets:
Breakdown of The Rule of Law in Haiti. New York, 1991.
Leyburn, James. The Haitian People. New Haven, 1971.
Logan, Rayford. The Diplomatic Relations of the United States
With Haiti, 1776-1891. Chapel Hill, NC, 1941.
Pataki, Eva. Haitian Painting: Art and Kitsch. Adams Press:
Chicago, 1986.
Price-Mars, Jean. So Spoke the Uncle. Three Continents Press:
Washington, DC, 1983. (First published in French in 1928.)
Rodman, Selden. The Miracle of Haitian Art. Doubleday: New York,
1971.
Roumain, Jacques. *Masters of the Dew. Translated by Mercer Cook.
Collier Books: New York, 1971. (First published in French in 1944.)
Schmidt, Hans. The United States Occupation of Haiti, 1915-1934.
Rutgers University Press: New Brunswick, 1971.
Thomson, Ian. Bonjour Blanc: A Journey Through Haiti. Hutchinson:
London, 1992.
Trouillot, Michel-Rolph. Haiti: State Against Nation, The Origins
and Legacy of Duvalierism. Monthly Review: New York, 1990.
University of Virginia. *Callaloo, Haiti: The Literature and
Culture. Johns Hopkins University Press: Baltimore, 1992.
Weinstein, Brian and Aaron Segal. Haiti: The Failure of Politics.
Praeger: New York, 1992.
Wilentz, Amy. The Rainy Season: Haiti Since Duvalier. Simon and
Schuster: New York, 1989.
Local Holidays Last Updated: 9/9/2005 9:58 AM
New Year's Day January 1
Independence Day January 1
Ancestors' Day January 2
Carnival (Mardi Gras) Varies
Good Friday Varies
Agriculture & Labor Day May 1
Flag Day May 18
Corpus Christi Varies
Assumption Day August 15
Death of Dessalines October 17
All Souls Day November 2
Battle of Vertières November 18
Christmas December 25
|