"Haiti: Wow!!" Haiti by Elmsaafir

Haiti Travel Guide: 327 reviews and 806 photos

I spent nearly six months in Haiti during a stint with the UN Peacekeeping force there. My soldiers provided medical care at the remote sites in Cap Hatien (north part of the country), Gonaieves (Center), and Les Cayes (southwest). When I wasn't out with my troops, I was in Port au Prince.

It's an amazing country...Rugged mountains which, for the most part, were devoid of trees, having been cut down for firewood. This of course has caused great problems with erosion, and is rapidly silting up the rivers in many places. On the drive north there were some amazingly lush areas of jungle high in the mountains.

While we were there, Aristide's successor, Rene Preval, was elected president. The inauguration marked the first time a peaceful transition of government occured in the history of the country.

In addition, to providing the health care for UN troops, we also provided classes and (occasionally) emergency care to Haitians.

It was a really awesome way to do a real mission and provide direct help to a wonderful people.

We did have our share of "experiences," though. Check out my "Near Death Experience" in my travelogue...

I'd love to someday go back and visit someday...the people invariably were wonderful...Incidentally, the bus in the picture above is called a "Tap-Tap." They're the local way around town. Of course, we weren't allowed to get on one of those. Maybe next time.

Last visit to Haiti: Dec 1995
Intro Written Sep 11, 2002
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Reviews (3)

Go see some of the unspoiled... Favorites (1)

Go see some of the unspoiled beaches that are there. We didn't really get to do much 'tourism' while we were there. But,... more travel advice

Go to see the Citadel. A few... Off The Beaten Path (1)

Go to see the Citadel. A few miles south of Cap Haitien, it's an incredible work of Napoleonic era construction. Built... more travel advice

When we were there, the first... - Haiti

When we were there, the first... Warnings and Dangers (1)

When we were there, the first free election in Haiti's history went on. There were still problems from time to time, and... more travel advice

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Comments (5)

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Sue08080 Jun 7, 2006 at 4:05 AM

Great photos and tips from Haiti! How is it that you've missed Guatemala?
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marcoparco Feb 22, 2004 at 3:17 PM

I recently came back form a volunteer medical trip to Haiti. I understand you story about the 'crazy' driver. They are everywhere!!!! Let's hope the political turmoil dosen't last to much longer, Cheers
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raviv_ta Jul 29, 2002 at 7:55 AM

great pictures interesting information
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millward Mar 26, 2002 at 12:59 PM

good info..photo of bus is great!!
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traveldave Mar 23, 2002 at 3:34 PM

Excellent page & a great story in your travelogue.