Haiti

Haiti occupies the Western part of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. It’s the only country founded after a successful slave revolt. There have been coups and natural disasters, but there is also beauty, a strength of human spirit, and the accoutrements of Vodou ceremonies. Haitian music and dance can move you, too. The country has mountains, lowlands, waterfalls, and beaches. See La Visite National Park outside the capital for varied forest scenery and bird species, some native to Hispaniola. Jacmel and Port-Au-Prince have galleries and studios where you can observe the lively arts scene.

Starches like yams, breadfruit, rice, and pitimi (millet) are featured in many meals. Tomato, cabbage, avocado, bell peppers are common vegetables. You can have mayi moulin, somewhat like a polenta, topped with bean sauce or fish. Legim is a vegetable stew with mashed eggplant, cabbage, chayote, spinach, watercress, and other vegetables. You can find a little bit of vegan-friendly or organic cuisine in Port-Au-Prince. Fresh fruits and juices are more prevalent. Choose from orange, granadilla, passion fruit, and many other varieties!