Jacmel: The Artistic Heartbeat of Haiti

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-zho]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [oh-rev-wah]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tahn-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zay mwen]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [key-jahn oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [es-kay oo pah-lay ahn-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwen pah kohn-prahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, tanpri
  [mwen tah ren-men way meh-nee ahn tahn-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwen pah mahn-jay vee-ahn]
• Cheers!Sante!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwen tah ren-men pay-yay tahn-pree]

• Help!Ed mwen!
  [ayd mwen]
• Go away!Ale lwen!
  [ah-lay lwehn]
• Call the Police!Rele lapolis!
  [reh-lay lah-poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [reh-lay yohn dohk-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pèdi
  [mwen pay-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwen mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwen tah ren-men ach-tay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis ap gade
  [mwen zjeez ahp gahd]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [kohn-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah twah shay]
• Can you lower the price?Eske ou ka ba pri la?
  [es-kay oo kah bah pree lah]

• What time is it?Kisa lè li ye?
  [kee-sah lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi se yon lè
  [lee say yohn lay]
• Half past (10)Demi (10)
  [deh-mee (dis)]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-pray-mee-dee]
• EveningAswè
  [ah-sway]
• YesterdayYe
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [zho-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemenn
  [deh-menn]
• 11
  [1]
• 22
  [2]
• 33
  [3]
• 44
  [4]
• 55
  [5]
• 66
  [6]
• 77
  [7]
• 88
  [8]
• 99
  [9]
• 1010
  [10]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...?
  [kee koh-tay]
• What's the address?Kisa adrès la ye?
  [kee-sah ah-drehs lah yay]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Eske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [es-kay oo kah mohn-tray mwen (soh kaht lah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kile pwochen (bis la)?
  [keel peuh-shen (bees lah)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-kay (poo ....)]

Jacmel, officially founded in 1698, is a city situated on the southern coast of Haiti. Initially established by French colonists, Jacmel quickly became an important port and trading hub due to its strategic location and natural harbor. The town’s architecture and layout were influenced heavily by French colonial designs, contributing to its unique charm and historical significance.

Though the Battle of Vertières did not occur in Jacmel, the city played a crucial role during the Haitian Revolution. Jacmel was a stronghold for revolutionary forces, including leaders such as Toussaint L'Ouverture and Alexandre Pétion. The city's support and resources were instrumental in the eventual Haitian victory over the French, culminating in the Battle of Vertières in 1803 and the declaration of Haiti's independence on January 1, 1804.

In 1896, a devastating fire swept through Jacmel, destroying much of the city’s infrastructure and many of its iconic wooden buildings. The fire prompted a significant rebuilding effort, during which many structures were reconstructed using fire-resistant materials such as stone and brick, leading to the unique architectural blend that Jacmel is known for today.

Jacmel is famous for its vibrant annual Carnival, which showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. Held every February, the event features colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and traditional music and dance. The Carnival is a major attraction that draws visitors from around the globe, offering a vivid display of the creativity and spirit of Jacmel’s residents.

The 2010 earthquake that struck Haiti caused significant damage to Jacmel, impacting its infrastructure and historic buildings. Despite the devastation, the city has been resilient in its recovery efforts. International aid and local initiatives have focused on restoring Jacmel’s cultural sites and improving its infrastructure, ensuring that the city continues to thrive as a cultural and historical hub.

Jacmel is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, particularly its papier-mâché creations. Local artisans produce a variety of handcrafted items, from masks and sculptures to jewelry and paintings. The city has become a center for artists and craftsmen, with its creative output contributing significantly to both the local economy and cultural identity.

Jacmel’s architecture is a testament to its rich history and cultural influences. The city’s streets are lined with 19th-century mansions featuring ornate balconies and intricate ironwork, reflecting a blend of French colonial and Caribbean styles. These historic buildings provide a picturesque backdrop and a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

Jacmel has earned a reputation as a hub for Haitian cinema, hosting the annual Festival Film Jakmèl. This event celebrates the country’s film industry and provides a platform for local and international filmmakers to showcase their work. The festival contributes to Jacmel’s cultural landscape and promotes Haitian cinema on a global stage.

Jacmel is located on the southern coast of Haiti, approximately 85 kilometers from Port-au-Prince. The most common way to reach Jacmel is by road from Port-au-Prince. You can hire a private car, take a taxi, or use one of the local bus services (known as 'tap-taps'). The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, there are domestic flights available from Port-au-Prince to Jacmel Airport, which provide a quicker but more expensive option.

Within Jacmel, transportation options include taxis, moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis), and tap-taps. Taxis are convenient for short distances but may be more expensive. Moto-taxis are more affordable and can navigate the narrow streets with ease, but always agree on the fare before starting the ride. Tap-taps are shared minibuses that follow set routes and are the most economical option, though they can be crowded. Walking is also a viable option for exploring central Jacmel, as the town is relatively compact.

The official currency in Haiti is the Haitian Gourde (HTG), but US dollars are widely accepted in Jacmel. It is advisable to carry small denominations of both currencies for convenience. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but smaller establishments and street vendors typically prefer cash. ATMs are available in Jacmel, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Port-au-Prince before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Jacmel is generally safer than some other parts of Haiti, but it is still important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Be cautious in crowded places and keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing. Areas with higher crime rates include the outskirts of Jacmel and some isolated beach areas. Always ask locals or trusted guides about current safety conditions.

In case of emergency, dial 114 for police assistance or 118 for medical emergencies. Jacmel has a local hospital and several clinics for medical care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Keep emergency contact numbers and your travel insurance details readily accessible.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. It is polite to greet people with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and to dress appropriately in churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using tap-taps, as they can be crowded and slow. Don't argue over fares; agree on the price beforehand. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a nod. Haitians appreciate polite and respectful interactions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and show appreciation for the food. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered rude.

To experience Jacmel like a local, visit the vibrant local markets where you can buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Haitian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their town's history and culture. Don't miss the annual Jacmel Carnival, a colorful celebration of music, dance, and art. For a unique experience, explore the town's beautiful colonial architecture, visit the art galleries, and relax on the picturesque beaches. Take time to appreciate the local cuisine, especially the seafood dishes.