Les Cayes: A Hidden Gem on Haiti's Southern Coast

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-zho]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [oh-rev-wah]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tan-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-keezay mwenn]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [kee-zhahn 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
  [mwenn pah kohn-prahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, tanpri
  [mwenn tah ren-men way men-ee ahn, tan-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwenn pah mahn-jay vyan]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwenn tah ren-men pay-yay, tan-pree]

• Help!Èd!
  [ayd]
• Go away!Ale!
  [ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele polis la!
  [re-lay poh-lees lah]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [re-lay yohn dohk-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pèdi mwen
  [mwenn pay-dee mwenn]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwenn mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwenn tah ren-men ashtay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwenn zjee gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [kohn-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah twah chay]
• Can you lower the price?Eske ou ka ba pri a?
  [es-kay oo kah bah pree ah]

• What time is it?Kisa lè li ye?
  [kee-sah lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockSe yon è
  [say yohn ay]
• Half past (10)Dèmi (10)
  [day-mee (dix)]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-pray-mee-dee]
• EveningAswè
  [ah-sway]
• YesterdayYè
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [zho-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [day-men]
• 11
  [un]
• 22
  [de]
• 33
  [twaz]
• 44
  [kat]
• 55
  [sank]
• 66
  [sis]
• 77
  [sèt]
• 88
  [uit]
• 99
  [nef]
• 1010
  [dis]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote yon/la...?
  [kee koh-tay yohn/lah]
• What's the address?Kisa adrès la ye?
  [kee-sah ad-res lah yay]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Eske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [es-kay oo kah mohn-tray mwenn (soo kaht lah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pral genyen (bis)?
  [kee lay prahl zhenn-yen (bees)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-kay (poo)]

Les Cayes, originally called Aux Cayes, was founded by French settlers in 1726. The city quickly became an important port and trading post due to its strategic coastal location on the southern peninsula of Haiti. Its name, meaning 'The Reefs,' reflects the natural coral formations that surround the area.

In 1793, during the Haitian Revolution, Les Cayes became a significant battleground. French forces clashed with the revolutionary troops led by Toussaint Louverture, who sought to gain control over the city. The battle was crucial in the broader context of the struggle for Haitian independence.

In 1815, the South American liberator Simón Bolívar arrived in Les Cayes, seeking support for his revolutionary efforts against Spanish rule in Latin America. Haitian President Alexandre Pétion provided Bolívar with arms, money, and men, which were pivotal in the eventual liberation of several South American countries.

In 1963, Hurricane Flora struck Les Cayes with devastating force, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The hurricane was one of the deadliest in the 20th century, and its aftermath highlighted the city's vulnerability to natural disasters. The event spurred efforts to improve infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the region.

Les Cayes is known for its vibrant culture, which is a blend of African, French, and indigenous influences. The city is famous for its lively festivals, such as the annual carnival and the Fête de Notre-Dame, which showcase traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The local arts and crafts, particularly the unique voodoo-inspired art, are also a significant aspect of the city's cultural heritage.

Historically, Les Cayes has been a significant economic hub due to its port, which facilitated the export of coffee, sugar, and other agricultural products. In recent years, the city has diversified its economy to include tourism, leveraging its beautiful beaches and historical sites to attract visitors from around the world.

On August 14, 2021, a powerful earthquake struck southwestern Haiti, with Les Cayes being one of the hardest-hit areas. The 7.2 magnitude quake caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure, leading to a significant humanitarian crisis. The event underscored the need for improved building standards and disaster response mechanisms in the region.

Les Cayes can be accessed primarily via Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. From Port-au-Prince, you can take a domestic flight to Antoine-Simon Airport in Les Cayes, which typically takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for a road trip via National Route 2, which is a scenic but longer journey, approximately 4-5 hours by car or bus.

Public transportation in Les Cayes includes buses, minibuses (tap-taps), and moto-taxis. Tap-taps are brightly painted minibuses that are a popular and inexpensive way to get around the city. Moto-taxis are motorbikes that offer quick and nimble transportation for short distances. For more convenience, taxis are also available, but it's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Renting a car is an option but driving conditions can be challenging.

The official currency in Haiti is the Haitian Gourde (HTG). U.S. dollars are also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available but ensure you have a backup plan as they can occasionally be out of service.

While Les Cayes is generally safer than some other parts of Haiti, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night and stay away from poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include the outskirts of the city and some isolated beaches. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs.

In case of an emergency, dial 114 for police assistance, 118 for fire services, and 116 for medical emergencies. Les Cayes has medical facilities, but for serious conditions, you may need to be transferred to Port-au-Prince. Having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended. For minor ailments, local pharmacies (pharmacies) are available.

Fashion: Do dress modestly and avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Light, breathable clothing is ideal due to the tropical climate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient and polite when using tap-taps and moto-taxis. Don't argue about fares; agree on the price beforehand. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonjou'. Handshakes are common, and a smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like griot (fried pork) and fritay (fried snacks). Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled or purified water.

To experience Les Cayes like a local, visit the bustling Marche Aux Dattes (Date Market) where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Don't miss a visit to Gelée Beach, a popular local spot, especially during the annual Gelée Festival in August. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to Île à Vache, an island off the coast with beautiful beaches and opportunities for snorkeling.