Where He leads...: My Favorite Places: Jacmel

My Favorite Places: Jacmel

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[This is the third post in a series I wrote for FHM's blog of my favorite places in Haiti. My two previous posts are about Kokoye Beach and Rustik.]

Jacmel is about 30 miles from Leogane. The two towns are separated by a steep and curvy mountain road that is not for the faint of heart—or stomach. You are, however, rewarded with breathtaking mountain views all along the way.

In the mid-1800s, Jacmel was an important port town, used by many traders between the Caribbean and Europe. Many of the buildings in downtown Jacmel are over 100 years old and were built with a unique Creole style architecture similar to styles I've seen in the French Quarter, New Orleans. And similar to New Orleans, Jacmel gets its influx of tourists around Mardi Gras time, called Kanaval. Jacmel is known for its colorful celebrations and parades, complete with incredible papier-mâché masks and decorations. Just in the past year, Jacmel has invested in some beautiful improvements including a tourist-friendly waterfront promenade showcasing the tile work of local artists. And of course there are plenty of shops throughout the downtown area selling all of the local crafts.

If you've traveled to Haiti with FHM, there's a good chance you've at least made a stop in Jacmel. And if you haven't visited yet, be sure to take a day to go explore this artists' town. You'll be glad you did!

The view from Cap Lamandou Hotel. If you're on a budget, don't stay there... just go for a nice meal. They have tasty cheeseburgers of all things!

Coterelle Breeze is a peaceful and very affordable place to stay. It's a little further outside of Jacmel but well worth the extra travel time.

Just two miles from Coterelle Breeze is Ti Mouillage Beach. They have bungalows near the water and also let you spend the day there if you order from their kitchen.

A fresh catch from the Ti Mouillage kitchen. DE-LICIOUS!

Hotel Cyvadier is a bit pricier when it comes to an overnight stay, but the view of the cove is spectacular and their food is delicious and very affordable. We often go just for a meal.

Surf Haiti is a neat organization in Haiti that offers some great programs for the local kids and youth. You can also stay there overnight and/or rent surfboards for the day.