Jérémie: The City of Poets and Beaches

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-zho]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [o-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?
  [key-zhan oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Èske ou pale angle?
  [es-ke oo pal ang-leh]
• 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 way meh-nee an, tan-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwen pa manj vyann]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwen ta ren-men pay-yay, tan-pree]

• Help!Edem!
  [ay-dem]
• Go away!Al fè wout!
  [al fay oo]
• Call the Police!Rele la polis!
  [re-lay la po-leece]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [re-lay yon dok-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [mwen peh-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 ap gade
  [mwen zhee-zap gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [kon-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sa twah chay]
• Can you lower the price?Èske ou ka ba pri la?
  [es-ke oo ka bah pree lah]

• What time is it?Kilesè li ye?
  [key-leh-say lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi senk e demye
  [lee sank ay dehm-yeh]
• Half past (10)Demi e onzè
  [deh-me ay on-zay]
• MorningMaten
  [ma-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ap-ray-mee-dee]
• EveningAswè
  [ah-sweh]
• YesterdayYe
  [yeh]
• TodayJodia
  [zho-dee-ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [deh-men]
• 1Yon
  [yon]
• 2De
  [deh]
• 3Twaz
  [twaz]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sank]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [set]
• 8Wit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Kote mwen ka jwenn...?
  [ko-te mwen ka zwen]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [key ad-res lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Èske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [es-ke oo ka mohn-tray mwen (soo kaht lah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pral pase (bis la)?
  [key lay pral pah-say (bees lah)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yon tee-kay (poo)]

Jérémie, often referred to as the 'City of Poets,' was founded in 1756. It is located in the southwestern part of Haiti and has a rich history deeply rooted in the colonial era. The town was established by French colonists and quickly became an important center for commerce and culture.

Jérémie played a significant role during the Haitian Revolution, which lasted from 1791 to 1804. Many residents of Jérémie were involved in the fight for independence from French colonial rule. The city witnessed numerous battles and skirmishes, contributing to the overall success of the revolution.

In the 19th century, Jérémie experienced a period of prosperity. The city became known for its vibrant cultural scene, attracting poets, writers, and intellectuals. This era solidified Jérémie's reputation as the 'City of Poets,' a nickname it still holds today.

The Jérémie Vespers, also known as the 'Vêpres Jérémiennes,' occurred in 1964. This tragic event saw the massacre of numerous mulatto families by forces loyal to François 'Papa Doc' Duvalier. The massacre was part of a broader campaign of political repression during Duvalier's regime.

In October 2016, Jérémie was severely impacted by Hurricane Matthew, one of the most powerful storms to hit Haiti in recent history. The hurricane caused widespread destruction, damaging homes, infrastructure, and local landmarks. Despite the devastation, the community has been resilient in its recovery efforts.

Jérémie has a rich cultural heritage that continues to thrive. The city is home to numerous festivals, including the annual Fête Patronale, which celebrates the city's patron saint, St. Louis. Jérémie is also known for its traditional music, dance, and cuisine, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped its history.

Jérémie is located on the western tip of Haiti's southern peninsula. The nearest major airport is Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Port-au-Prince, you can take a domestic flight to Jérémie via local airlines. Alternatively, you can travel by road, but be prepared for a long and potentially bumpy journey that can take 6 to 8 hours depending on road conditions. Private buses and shared taxis (tap-taps) are available for this route.

In Jérémie, transportation options include taxis, motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis), and tap-taps. Taxis are available but can be relatively expensive. Moto-taxis are a more affordable and flexible option for short distances. Tap-taps are colorful, communal minibuses that are a common means of transportation for locals. Renting a car is an option, but be aware that road conditions can be poor and driving can be challenging due to local traffic norms.

The official currency in Haiti is the Haitian Gourde (HTG). U.S. dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Jérémie, but it is wise to have sufficient cash on hand for your needs.

Jérémie is generally safe, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in unfamiliar areas. Areas with high crime rates that should be avoided include certain parts of the outskirts of the city where tourists are less common. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 114 for police assistance, 118 for medical emergencies, and 115 for the fire department. Local hospitals and medical facilities are available in Jérémie, but it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications. It is also recommended to know the location of the nearest embassy or consulate.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Participate respectfully in local religious practices if invited. Public Transport: Do be courteous 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'. A handshake is common, but a light kiss on the cheek is also a customary greeting among friends. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Haitian dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Jérémie like a local, visit the vibrant local markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the beautiful beaches and the historic Fort Olivier. For a unique cultural experience, try attending a local Vodou ceremony or a traditional Haitian music event.