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La Dessalinienne: National Anthem of Haiti

Since its tumultuous birth as the first independent Black republic in 1804, Haïti has been a beacon of resistance, independence, and pride for people around the world. At the heart of its national identity is an anthem of profound power and meaning: La Dessalinienne.

When Haitian Cuisine Makes the “Buzz”: Between Creativity and Criticism

In a video that recently went viral, content creator Pigtoriasecret from Taiwan attempted to make Haitian vegetables. She showed off her culinary skills in a video captioned “Haitian Vegetable.” Her lighthearted approach to mixing culture, cuisine, and humor was creative and offered a unique twist that engaged food lovers and those curious about different cultures. However, comments from Haitians were pouring in from all sides, with criticism of the quality, sarcasm about the method, and irony about the creator’s courage in choosing to cook this dish. It didn’t stop! Haïti Wonderland, far from setting itself up as a chef with Michelin stars, brings you the recipe for Haitian vegetables, “legim” or “toufe.”

Guédés: When Haïti celebrates its ancestors with color and fervor

Every November 1st and 2nd, Haïti comes alive with the colors black and purple to celebrate the Guédés, spirits venerated in the voodoo religion, symbols of a powerful bond between the living and the dead. Fascinating, indomitable and provocative, the Guédés form a true family in the pantheon of Haitian voodoo, where they are respected for their role as spiritual guides of the deceased to the afterlife. Led by iconic figures such as the legendary Baron Samedi and his companion Grann Brigitte, the Guédés embody the paradoxes of life and death. Each Baron has a unique personality: Baron Cimetière, Baron Kriminel, and Baron La Croix are the guardians of the souls that wander on the borders of the world of the dead. Together, they form a powerful and somewhat frightening presence, but one that is deeply rooted in Haitian culture. The Guédés are not like other voodoo spirits; they demonstrate their fearlessness in a spectacular way. Accustomed to death, they are fearless and are provocative: they eat glass, raw peppers, and coat their sensitive parts with rum and pepper. These gestures mark their indifference to danger and remind us that they have already known earthly life. They are thus psychopomps – these beings who lead the souls of the dead – and act as bridges between the world of the living and that of the dead. Some Guédés, like Guédé Nibo, wear black, purple, and white clothing, each with unique characteristics. They are many and varied: Guédé Fouillé, Guédé Loraj, Papa Guédé, and many others. These are the spirits who, each year, remind Haitians of the importance of remembering and honoring the deceased. The cult of the Guédés is not only religious; it is also cultural and historical. According to tradition, their spiritual territory, or “Fètomè” – nicknamed the “Country without Hats” – is a place where the souls of ancestors reside. According to stories, the origins of this cult go back to the Abomey plateau, the ancient capital of the kingdom of Dahomey, in Africa, where death and life coexist in a form of symbiosis. This celebration in Haïti even finds echoes in ancient history. The Romans also honored their dead with the “Fête des Lémuria”, which took place in February, to ward off spirits and restore peace between the world of the living and that of the deceased. For Haitians, honoring the Guédés is about accepting death as a part of life and celebrating the invisible bonds that unite us with those who have left us. It is also a way of resisting, because life, despite its challenges, must be celebrated in all its complexity and depth.

Cultural exploration: Discovering the Haitian soul

Cultural exploration offers a fascinating window into the richness and diversity of world heritage. Among destinations that captivate with their history, art and unique identity, Haïti stands out as a cultural gem worth discovering. b~Historical heritage:~b The history of Haïti is marked by the resilience of the Haitian people in the face of slavery, colonization and political challenges. It is the first independent state in Latin America and the only one founded by a successful slave revolt. Haiti’s historical heritage is reflected in its art, music, dance and beliefs. b~Art and Crafts:~b Haitian artistic expression is vibrant and powerful. Naive painting, famous for its bright colors and narrative themes, has its roots in Vodou traditions and local folklore. Haitian artists have gained international fame by capturing the mystical spirit and daily life of the country. b~Music, rhythm of the Haitian soul:~b Music is the pulsating soul of Haiti. From direct compass to voodoo to jazz to rasin, each musical genre has a deeply rooted history in Haitian culture. The iconic band, Boukman Eksperyans, fuses traditional rhythms with modern influences, creating a unique sonic experience that transcends boundaries. b~Dance and movements:~b Dance in Haïti is a celebration of life and spirituality. Voodoo dances, such as Yanvalou and Banda, embody sacred rituals while preserving African heritage. The graceful movements and colorful costumes tell stories from Haitian history, creating a deep connection between past and present. b~Spirituality and Voodoo:~b Vodou, often misunderstood, is an essential component of Haitian culture. It is a syncretic religion that combines African, Native American and Catholic elements. Vodou ceremonies, with their intoxicating dances and mystical rituals, are powerful expressions of Haitian spirituality and are rooted in the quest for connection with ancestors and deities. Exploring the Haitian soul means delving into a world where history, art, music and spirituality intertwine to form a unique cultural web. Haiti, with its diversity and resilience, offers an experience rich in emotions and discoveries. Whether through the bustling streets of Port-au-Prince, the vibrant art galleries or the captivating rhythms, every corner of this Caribbean country reveals a captivating facet of its deep and living soul.

Haiti: In the Kingdom of Legends: Le Colombier, Keeper of the Secrets of Belle-Anse

In the heart of the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, stands majestically the Colombier, an imposing rock mass that defies time and the elements. Located off the picturesque coast of Belle-Anse in southeastern Haiti, the Colombier is more than just a geological formation; it is a symbol of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Dominating the marine horizon with its imposing silhouette, the Colombier is shrouded in mystery and legends passed down from generation to generation. According to local stories, this rock was formed by the sea gods themselves, testifying to their passage through these crystal clear waters. A legend which adds an aura of fascination to this already enchanting place. But beyond its mythical appearance, the Colombier also offers a breathtaking visual experience. Visitors who venture to this natural wonder are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas: steep cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, isolated coves hemmed with golden sand, and abundant marine flora that enlivens the seabed. Le Colombier is also a refuge for remarkable biodiversity. Its waters are home to a multitude of marine species, from colorful fish to spectacular corals and majestic sea turtles. Scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will find a preserved paradise there, where nature reigns supreme and each immersion is a fascinating exploration. As a tourist spot, Le Colombier offers an unforgettable getaway for travelers looking for adventure and authentic discoveries. Boat excursions from Belle-Anse allow visitors to get up close and personal with this natural wonder, contemplate its spectacular shapes and let themselves be captivated by its captivating beauty. In short, the Colombier embodies the quintessence of Haiti’s natural beauty, a hidden treasure in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Between its breathtaking landscapes, its cultural heritage rich in legends and its exceptional biodiversity, this maritime jewel fully deserves its reputation as an essential tourist destination. Come discover the Colombier and let yourself be carried away by the magic of this exceptional place.

Cap-Haïtien vibrated this weekend with an unforgettable roadtrip and boat party!

On September 1, 2024, Haïti vibrated to the rhythm of Roadtrip 4.0, an exceptional event that left a memorable mark on all participants. Organized by ShoublackHaïti and Championbusiness, this fourth edition of the Roadtrip brought together dozens of people on the beach of Marquis Paradise, near Labadee, Haiti, for a day combining relaxation, entertainment and cultural immersion.

What is Summer Like in Haiti? A Hot and Lively Season to Discover

Summer in Haiti, which generally runs from June to September, is a time marked by sunny days, high temperatures, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re wondering what this season is like in one of the jewels of the Caribbean, here’s what you need to know about summer in Haiti.

The Republic of the Stateless?

Haïti is making headlines all over the world. And it’s not good news. The exploits of Haitians rarely generate so much interest, but we always tend to point out the excesses, spill ink to stir up thorns in the side, broadcast on loop to relay the chaos that is raging. There is hardly any media to make amends for the resilience of this cornered people. No one to highlight the fierce resistance that serves as fuel for this people hanging in the gorges of death. And what if it was to a certain extent the only way to talk about this country to finally attract attention? It is July 26, 2024. The Olympic Games have just started in France. The 33rd Olympiad of modern times. Without realizing it, according to Forbes Magazine, Haïti ranks among the ten nations with the best costume, proudly pointing to third place. At the same time, miles away from France, on “The Island of Skillfully Orchestrated Chaos,” Haitians do not even realize how much this recognition borders on irony. A paradox whose unpopular evocation is likely to greatly displease. An aerial image shows the city of Paris in all its splendor, illuminated like the gates of paradise, reflecting all the grandeur of France, all the magnificence it has acquired over the centuries, without forgetting the contribution of the blood shed by the horrible machine of colonization. I close my eyes, I go back in time, I see again this boy left to his own devices, lost without even knowing it, doomed to failure without even understanding it. And then there are the others. Boys in the same situation, or worse. Banished from society, they do not know what life has in store for them. They form the elegant class of the marginalized, in their quality of scoundrels, good-for-nothings, and thugs who spoil the splendor of society. This contrast challenges me, and I wonder for a moment if those who live the chaos from the outside grasp the stakes and the reality of the situation. Moreover, it seems to me that even the majority of Haitians living in the territory have no notion of the fundamental and essential aspects of the situation.

Tech Archive: Haitian Websites and Apps Launched in 2024

The year 2024 has been marked by the launch of many Haitian-created websites and mobile applications, projects that not only demonstrate the ingenuity of Haitian digital creators, but also their deep love for Haiti. Here is an overview of the most remarkable projects, symbols of Haitian ingenuity and creativity.