Hinche: The Heartbeat of Haiti's Central Plateau

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-zho]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [oh-rev-wa]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tan-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zay mwen]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [kee-jan oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [es-kay oo pal an-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwen pa kon-pran]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, tanpri
  [mwen ta ren-men weh meh-nee an, tan-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwen pa manj vyan]
• Cheers!Sante!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwen ta ren-men pay-yay, tan-pree]

• Help!Èd!
  [ayd]
• Go away!Ale!
  [ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele Lapolis!
  [rel lay-poh-leece]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [rel yay own dok-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pèdi
  [mwen pay-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwen ma-lad]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwen ta ren-men ach-tay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwen zhee gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [kon-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sa twa shay]
• Can you lower the price?Ou ka ba pri la?
  [oo ka ba pree la]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi ye èd tan
  [lee yay ayd tan]
• Half past (10)Douzè
  [doo-zay]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ap-ray-mee-dee]
• EveningAswè
  [ah-sway]
• YesterdayYe
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [jo-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemenn
  [day-men]
• 1Yon
  [yown]
• 2De
  [day]
• 3Twaz
  [twaz]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sank]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Set
  [set]
• 8Uit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [deece]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...?
  [kee koh-tay]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [kee ah-dres la]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou ka montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [oo ka mohn-tray mwen (so kah la)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pwochen (bis)?
  [kee lay pwosh-en beess]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yown tee-kay poo]

Hinche, located in Haiti's Central Plateau, was originally inhabited by the Taíno people, an indigenous group known for their advanced agricultural practices and social structures. The Taíno built settlements and cultivated crops like maize, beans, and cassava. They left behind petroglyphs and other archaeological evidence that provide insights into their rich cultural heritage.

In 1492, Christopher Columbus arrived in Hispaniola, the island that now comprises Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The Spanish established a stronghold in the region, and Hinche became part of their colonial territories. The Spanish introduced new crops, livestock, and European architectural styles, which had a lasting impact on the area.

By the 17th century, the French had taken control of the western part of Hispaniola, including Hinche. The French colonial period saw the establishment of large plantations and the forced labor of enslaved Africans. The brutal conditions and exploitation during this era laid the groundwork for future resistance and rebellion.

Hinche played a significant role in the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804), which led to the first successful slave revolt in history and the establishment of Haiti as the first independent black republic. Leaders like Toussaint Louverture and Jean-Jacques Dessalines were instrumental in mobilizing the local population, including those in Hinche, to fight for their freedom.

Following Haiti's independence in 1804, Hinche experienced a period of instability as the new nation struggled to establish a stable government. Conflicts between different political factions and foreign interventions continued to affect the area. Despite these challenges, Hinche remained a vital part of Haiti's cultural and agricultural landscape.

The 20th century brought significant changes to Hinche, including infrastructure improvements and increased political engagement. The construction of roads and public buildings helped to modernize the town. Additionally, Hinche became a center for political activism, particularly during the Duvalier dictatorship, when residents participated in movements for democracy and human rights.

Hinche is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including traditional music, dance, and festivals. The town hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Feast of Saint Anne, which draws visitors from all over Haiti. These celebrations showcase the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of Hinche's residents.

Today, Hinche is a bustling town that balances its historical roots with modern development. It serves as a hub for commerce and education in the Central Plateau. The town's markets, schools, and cultural institutions continue to play a vital role in the lives of its residents, making Hinche a unique and dynamic destination for travelers.

Hinche is located in the central region of Haiti, approximately 112 kilometers northeast of Port-au-Prince. The most common way to reach Hinche is by road. You can hire a private taxi or take a bus (known locally as a 'tap-tap') from Port-au-Prince. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, domestic flights are available from Port-au-Prince to Cap-Haïtien, with a subsequent drive to Hinche.

Within Hinche, transportation options include motorcycles (moto-taxis), which are a popular and inexpensive way to get around town. Local buses and tap-taps are also available for short distances. For more comfortable and private travel, you can hire a private car or taxi. Walking is a feasible option for exploring the town center, as many attractions are within walking distance.

The official currency in Haiti is the Haitian Gourde (HTG). While some hotels and larger establishments may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash for most transactions, especially in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are available in Hinche, but it is a good idea to withdraw enough cash in Port-au-Prince before traveling. U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in many places.

Hinche is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, so it's best to seek local advice about which areas to avoid. Always use reliable transportation options and stay in well-reviewed accommodations.

In case of emergency, dial 114 for police assistance or 118 for medical emergencies. Hinche has a local hospital and several clinics that can provide medical care. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town for over-the-counter medications. For serious health issues, consider traveling to larger hospitals in Port-au-Prince.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress appropriately when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' depending on the time of day. A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Hinche like a local, visit the bustling local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the Bassin Zim waterfall, a stunning natural attraction located just outside of Hinche. For a unique cultural experience, attend one of the local festivals or events that showcase traditional music and dance.