It might not take voodoo to reanimate Haiti as a tourist destination, but a decrease in crime has prompted an increase in optimism that this island nation -- with its rich culture and history -- could soon welcome visitors once again.
Many Americans have been to Haiti without realizing it -- Royal Caribbean cruise ships regularly make stops at the isolated (and insulated) port of Labadee without necessarily telling passengers they've landed in Haiti. Now, however, Haitian officials would like to introduce visitors to the rest of the country, such as the imposing Citadelle Laferriere and the Sans Souci palace, built by one of the leaders of the slave revolt that led to the nation's independence.
Haiti recently signed a deal with Venezuela to build a $30-million airport in Cap Hatien, the island's second-largest city, Reuters recently reported. Royal Caribbean has announced plans to include Labadee on the itinerary of its latest mega-ship, the Oasis of the Seas, and is spending $55 million to update the facility's pier and other infrastructure, the Miami Herald reported. Haitian officials also are discussing building a road connecting Labadee and the island's main cultural attractions. Haiti's tourism minister predicted that the island will be back on the world tourist map by 2011.
Small correction: The Citadelle and Sans Souci were built by Henry Christophe, a great leader for sure, but not the main leader of the Haitian Revolution. That honor goes to Toussaint first, then Dessalines after Toussaint’s capture.
Thanks, I have made the correction!