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Carrefour Travel Tips

Carrefour Travel Tips

Carrefour Ouest, Haiti Travel Guide

Communication

Staying connected is simple with local SIM cards or reliable Wi-Fi in urban areas. Mobile data is often the most consistent connection.

Staying Connected

  • Local SIM cards from Digicel or Natcom are at the airport or official stores. Your passport is necessary for registration.
  • Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and some Pétion-Ville restaurants. Mobile data coverage is for the most part good in urban areas.
  • Consider an eSIM for international travel from Airalo or a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi.

Language Barriers & Translation

Haitian Creole and The french language are official languages. English is spoken in some tourism areas, but not widely. Basic phrases are very helpful.

Phrases to Know

  • "Bonjou" (Bohn-joo) for Hello/Good day.
  • "Mèsi" (Mess-ee) for Thank you; "Silvouplè" (Seel-voo-play) for Please.
  • Google Translate (offline Haitian Creole pack) or a phrasebook. Consider learning a few phrases with Rosetta Stone.

Business Hours & Schedules

Most businesses operate Monday to Friday. Small shops and markets have longer hours. Always check for holiday closures.

Operating Times

  • General businesses: 8:00/9:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM, Monday-Friday.
  • Banks: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday. Use Bank machines inside secure bank branches during operating hours.
  • Holidays: Services may be limited or closed on Christian and National holidays (e.g., National Day of independence, Flag Day).

Airport Services

Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP) near Carrefour is the main international gateway. Services support traveler needs.

Airport Amenities & Tips

  • Wi-Fi, currency exchange, and car rental counters are available at PAP.
  • Access airport lounges with Priority Pass for a comfortable wait.
  • For flight disruptions, check Compensair for possible compensation.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Social Interactions

  • Greet people ("Bonjou") before conversation. Handshakes are common.
  • Looking someone straight in the eye is generally fine, but avoid staring.
  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
  • Accept food offers. Wash hands before eating. Tipping is customary (see section 2.3).

Sensitive Topics & Attire

  • Refrain from talking about about politics or displaying wealth.
  • Approach Vodou discussions with great sensitivity and respect.
  • Public displays of affection, especially for same-sex couples, are not common.
  • Modest clothing is recommended in public (shoulders/knees covered).

Essential Tip:

Politeness, patience, and discretion are your finest companions for positive interactions and a safe experience.

Accessibility Information

Haiti's infrastructure poses considerable difficulties for travelers with mobility issues.

General Infrastructure

Infrastructure is extremely limited. Sidewalks are irregular, broken, or absent. Buildings rarely have ramps or elevators. Roads are poorly maintained.

Accessible Transport & Attractions

Accessible public transportation is virtually non-existent. Attractions seldom have facilities for mobility challenges. Independent movement is very difficult.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

No specialized services are widely accessible to tourists with visual or hearing impairments. Planning assistance from local contacts is critical.

Personal Planning for Mobility

Travelers with mobility challenges need extensive personal planning and assistance. Bringing specific equipment may be necessary.

Planning Steps

  • Secure reliable local contacts for support.
  • Arrange for specialized transport as needed.
  • Travel with a dedicated assistant.

Resources & Organizations

No specific tourism-focused resources exist for accessibility in Haiti. General travel advisories should be consulted.

Information Sourcing

  • Direct inquiries to specific hotels or tour operators regarding their limited accessibility.
  • Rely on personal networks and experiences from others.
  • Thoroughly research prior to every travel decision.

Accessibility Considerations Overview

Common Challenges

  • Uneven terrain.
  • Lack of ramps/elevators.
  • Unreliable public transport.

Preparation Strategies

  • Extensive personal planning.
  • Strong local support network.
  • Specialized equipment.

Final Word on Accessibility:

Travelers with mobility challenges considering Haiti will find it a demanding destination. Detailed preparation and dedicated assistance are very important.

Money & Banking

Effective money management and banking knowledge are fundamental for a secure experience.

Currency and Exchange

The local currency is the Haitian Gourde (HTG). US Dollars are also widely accepted, especially in larger venues and by tour operators.

Currency Tips

  • Carry small denominations of US Dollars for convenience.
  • Exchange money at official banks or reputable currency exchange offices.
  • Always confirm the exchange rate beforehand.

ATMs and Credit Cards

ATMs are available at banks and some supermarkets in Port-au-Prince/Pétion-Ville. Their reliability and security vary. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and upscale establishments.

Card Usage Best Practices

  • Use Atms located inside secure bank branches during business hours.
  • Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Do not rely solely on credit cards; cash is widely preferred.

Tipping Practices

Tipping is customary for a variety of services.

Tipping Guidelines

  • Hotel staff: A few dollars per day for housekeeping.
  • Porters/Bellhops: 1-2 USD for each bag.
  • Taxi drivers: Pay a little extra or 10-15%.

Budgeting for Your Stay

Daily expenses vary. Always allocate funds for unexpected costs and security arrangements.

Expenditure Considerations

  • Accommodation: Varies from budget to luxury hotels.
  • Transportation: Private drivers are a secure, but more costly option.
  • Food: Street food is cheap, restaurants have various price points.

Security Advisory for Transactions

Cash Handling Precautions

  • Carry only the cash you need for the day.
  • Keep large amounts of cash concealed.
  • Avoid counting money openly in public.

Card Security Warnings

  • Be wary of card skimmers at ATMs.
  • Report any suspicious transactions immediately.
  • Only use cards in well-established and trusted venues.

Other Practical Notes

Electricity & Plugs

  • Voltage: 110/220V.
  • Frequency: 60 Hz.
  • Plugs: Type A and B (North American standard).

Water Safety

  • Do not drink tap water.
  • Drink bottled or filtered water exclusively.
  • Avoid ice cubes unless from a trusted source.

Financial Safety Reminder:

Maintain vigilance with your finances. Keep cash secure, be discreet with transactions, and prioritize safety over convenience for all finances.

Carrefour Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker