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Haiti is a Caribbean country occupying the western onethird of the island of Hispaniola, sharing the island with the Dominican Republic. It is about the size of the state of Maryland, 50 miles from Cuba, and 600 miles from Miami, Florida. Haiti, the first independent black republic, has historically been poverty stricken due to a variety of factors such as war and war debt, occupations and dictatorships, isolation and racism. These factors are still impacting Haiti today along with current economic and environmental factors such as international aid sanctions, internal political conflict, deforestation that leads to soil erosion and flooding, hurricanes, etc.

The average Haitian earns less than $3 a day, and survives on a mere $1 per day. There have been estimates that 1 percent of the country's estimated 8.1 million people control nearly half its wealth. More than half of the population lacks access to clean water or sanitation. Fifty percent of the population is undernourished, with one in five children underweight or under-height for their age. Twelve percent of Haitian children die before their first birthday, and one third do not make it to their fifth. According to a 2004 U.N. report, Haiti ranks with Afghanistan and Somalia as one of three countries of the world with the worst daily caloric deficit per person with 2.4 million Haitians unable to afford the minimum 2,240 daily calories recommended by the World Health Organization. In addition, only one in every 10,000 Haitians has access to a physician. Today most Haitians are Christian and 50-60 percent Roman Catholic. The number of Protestants has been growing steadily, although Baptist and Pentecostal are the largest registered denominations, many others are represented. Many Haitians continue to practice Voodoo or incorporate Voodoo into Christianity as has been done for several hundred years.

Even with all the struggles that Haiti faces, there remain a people with open arms and smiling faces. It is a culture rich in music, art, and storytelling. The land is graced with beautiful beaches and breathtaking mountains. Some positive things Haiti is known for include: Haiti is said to have the best beach in the Caribbean, they were the first Caribbean country to ever qualify for the soccer World Cup finals, artists in Haiti produce nearly all the crafts sold for tourism in the Caribbean, and it is the second largest exporter of Mangos to the U.S. ( Arthur, 2004, pp.19-20 ) . A trip to Haiti is truly a life changing experience full of beauty and sorrow it will give you a better appreciation for the strength of these amazing people.

Travel Information

Weather
The climate in Haiti is hot and humid with an average temperature of 85 degrees. For a current forecast go to www.weather.com and type Port-au-Prince, Haiti in the “Local Weather” box.

Clothing
Summer clothing is appropriate with the high temperatures and humidity. Please wear modest clothing. Please bring shoes that are comfortable for walking long distances as due to the current conditions resulting from the earthquake we may be required to due some hiking due to damaged roads. DO NOT wear any jewelry that has sentimental value, however you will want to wear something that signifies you are married.

Showering
You will want to use unscented items if at all possible to help cut down on bug attractions.

Immunizations
Immunizations are not required to be admitted into Haiti. However we suggest you go to www.cdc.gov/travel to see the recommended immunizations, medical precautions, as well as handling the prescription medication you may be bringing with you. These immunizations are typically available at your County Health Department at cost or at any Travel Clinic. We advise you to have a current Tetanus Shot as well.

Food
We will do our best to provide you with meals but due to the current situations in Haiti as a result of the earthquake taking place in January of 2010 food supplies are scarce. For this reason we recommend that you bring light weight snacks such as energy bars. We will supply you with clean drinking water during your stay.

Luggage
We ask that your checked luggage be donated items for the relief efforts currently underway. You should be able to fit your clothing and personal items in a rolling carryon. However, due to the tightened restrictions, please check with the airline on toiletries allowed in carry-on. It might be necessary for you to pack some things in your checked luggage. If you do not have enough supplies to donate, our donations coordinator can ship additional items to the team leader.

Money
It is best to bring cash. Traveler’s checks are difficult to exchange and credit cards are only accepted in some places. Take mostly ones and fives and separate your money in different locations. I.E. some in your wallet, some in your suitcase, etc…. This is to ensure your money not to be lost or stolen all together, leaving you empty handed.