LADABEE, HAITI FACTS & TRAVEL TIPS

FACTS

Official Language: English, French, Creole
Currency: U.S. Dollars
Est. Population: 2,000
Cruise Port City: Labadee

TRAVEL TIPS

Labadee is located on Haiti's northern coast. The island's tropical climate averages between 80 degrees to 90 degrees year round. It can get very hot, so pace yourself when walking around. Anytime is a great time of the year to travel here. Due the tropical climate, brief showers can come at any time. Hurricane season is from June to December.

Only the Artisan's Market accepts traveler's checks and credit cards. Limited English is spoken by the locals. This is a small private island, so there are no banks or department stores located near the cruise port. You should make phone calls or access internet on the cruise ship.

You should drink only bottled water. Bring sunglasses, a hat and plenty of sunscreen lotion. For shoppers, this is the place to purchase inexpensive Haitian art, fabrics, pottery, tapestries, jewelry, paintings, wood carvings, chess sets, hand decorated dresses, Barbancourt rum, unique Paper Mache and more. If you enjoy haggling with local vendors, the Haitian Market offers the lowest prices. The vendors are more aggressive at the Haitian Market than the Artisan's Market.

Don't miss the local folkloric show located near Café Labadee. Many cruise passengers overlook this unique show featuring colorful costumes, energetic dancers, drums, African/Caribbean dancing, fire eating, walking on burning coals and more. The main attraction besides shopping is enjoying the many water activities.