Top Shopping malls in Haiti 2023! Haiti is not a typical tourist destination, but it has a lot to offer adventurous travelers who are looking for something different. One of the surprising aspects of this Caribbean country is its shopping scene, which boasts a variety of malls, markets, and boutiques that cater to different tastes and budgets. In this article, we will explore the top shopping malls in Haiti in 2023 and what makes them unique and worth visiting.
Shopping in Haiti is not only a way to find souvenirs and local products, but also a way to support the economy and the artisans of this developing nation. Many of the malls and stores in Haiti feature handmade items that showcase the creativity and talent of the Haitian people, as well as their cultural heritage and history. Some of the malls also offer entertainment, dining, and cultural activities that enrich the shopping experience.
The best shopping malls in Haiti for 2023, the top Haitian products to buy, how to find authentic Haitian products in shopping centers and outlets, and a lot more will be provided in this article.
What are the best shopping malls in Haiti for 2023?
Some of the best shopping malls in Haiti for 2023 are:
- Papillon Enterprise: This is a must-see place for anyone visiting Haiti. It is a social enterprise that employs local artisans and sells a variety of products, such as jewelry, clothing, home decor, and coffee. It also has a rooftop cafe that serves delicious food and drinks.
- Marche de Fer: This is a historic iron market that offers a glimpse of Haitian culture and commerce. You can find everything from fresh produce and spices to handicrafts and souvenirs. It is a chaotic but exciting place to explore.
- El-Saieh Gallery: This is an oasis of art and beauty in the midst of Port-au-Prince. It showcases a large collection of Haitian paintings, from famous masters to emerging talents. You can admire the artwork and buy some for yourself or as gifts.
What are some of the top Haitian products to buy?
Some of the top Haitian products to buy are:
- Haitian chocolate: Delicious, organic bars with flavors like Dous Makos and Minuit.
- Haitian coffee: Rich, mountain-grown blends from brands like Singing Rooster and Rebo.
- Haitian rum: Famous for Rhum Barbancourt, Clairin, and Boukman varieties.
- Haitian art: Vibrant paintings, sculptures, and crafts reflecting Haitian culture.
- Haitian skincare: Natural products with local ingredients, from brands like Ayiti Natives and Kreyol Essence.
How to find authentic Haitian products in shopping centers and outlets?
Finding authentic Haitian products in shopping centers and outlets can be a challenge, as some of them may sell low-quality or fake items. Here are some tips to help you find the best Haitian products:
- Look for the Haiti Map logo on the products or the stores. This is a certification program that guarantees the quality and authenticity of Haitian products and supports local artisans and businesses.
- Check the labels and tags on the products. They should indicate the origin, materials, and maker of the product. Avoid products that have no labels or tags, or that have labels or tags that are vague or misleading.
- Ask questions to the sellers or the staff. They should be able to tell you more about the products, such as how they are made, who made them, and what they represent. If they are not knowledgeable or helpful, they may not be selling authentic Haitian products.
- Compare the prices and quality of different products and stores. Authentic Haitian products may not be the cheapest, but they should offer good value for money. You can also check online reviews and ratings of different products and stores to see what other customers think of them.
- Shop online from reputable websites and marketplaces that partner directly with Haitian artisans and businesses. You can also look for websites that have the Haiti Map logo or that have positive feedback from customers.
What are the most popular souvenirs to buy in Haiti?
Haiti is a country with a rich culture and history, and there are many souvenirs that you can buy to remember your visit or to share with your friends and family. Some of the most popular souvenirs to buy in Haiti are:
- Artwork: Haiti has a vibrant and diverse art scene, and you can find paintings, sculptures, metalwork, woodcarving, and more from local artists. You can visit galleries, markets, or street vendors to find unique and colorful pieces of art that reflect the Haitian spirit and heritage.
- Coffee: Haiti produces some of the finest coffee in the world, and you can enjoy the rich aroma and flavor of Haitian coffee at home or as a gift. You can buy organic and fair-trade coffee from local farmers or cooperatives and support the Haitian economy and environment.
- Leather goods: Haiti has a tradition of leather craftsmanship, and you can find high-quality leather products such as bags, shoes, belts, wallets, and more. You can also buy leather accessories that are embellished with beads, fringes, or flags to add some flair to your outfit.
- Textiles: Haiti has a variety of textiles that showcase the creativity and skill of Haitian artisans. You can buy clothing, hats, bags, scarves, tablecloths, napkins, and more that are made from cotton, linen, or silk. You can also find beautiful embroidery, applique, crochet, or quilting work on some of these items.
- Vodou items: Vodou is a religion that is practiced by many Haitians, and it has rich symbolism and mythology. You can buy Vodou items such as flags, dolls, bottles, masks, drums, or jewelry that represent the different spirits or aspects of Vodou. These items are not only decorative but also have spiritual significance for some people.
How to get to Papillon Enterprise, the top-rated shopping destination in Haiti?
Papillon Enterprise is a great place to shop for authentic Haitian products and support the local economy and artisans. To get there, you have a few options:
- By car: You can drive to Papillon Enterprise from the center of Port-au-Prince in about 20 minutes, depending on the traffic. The address is 14 Rue Cassagnol Prolongee, Delmas 75. You can use a GPS or a map app to guide you, or ask for directions from locals along the way.
- By taxi: You can take a taxi to Papillon Enterprise from anywhere in Port-au-Prince. The fare may vary depending on the distance and the driver, but it should be around 200 to 300 Haitian gourdes (about 2 to 3 US dollars). You can negotiate the fare before you get in, and the driver should know the address and the name of the place.
- By public transportation: You can also use public transportation to get to Papillon Enterprise, but it may take longer and be less comfortable. You can take a tap-tap, which is a colorful and crowded minibus that runs along fixed routes. You can find a tap-tap that goes to Delmas 75 and then get off near Rue Cassagnol Prolongee. The fare is usually 10 Haitian gourdes (about 10 US cents). You can then walk for about 10 minutes to reach Papillon Enterprise or take a moto-taxi, which is a motorcycle
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What are the advantages and disadvantages of using U.S. dollars or Haitian gourdes in Haiti?
Haiti’s official currency is the Haitian gourde (HTG), which is divided into 100 centimes. The gourde has a long history and reflects the cultural pride of the Haitian people. However, the gourde is not widely used outside Haiti and has a low exchange rate compared to other currencies.
The U.S. dollar (USD) is the second-most commonly accepted currency in Haiti, especially in places with a high volume of tourists. Many businesses and individuals prefer to use USD because it is more stable and valuable than the gourde. Some also use the term “Haitian dollar” to refer to 5 gourdes, which can be confusing for visitors.
There are some advantages and disadvantages to using USD or HTG in Haiti. Here are some of them:
- Using USD can make transactions easier and faster, as you don’t need to change money or deal with large amounts of gourdes. You can also save on exchange fees and avoid losing value due to inflation.
- Using HTG can support the local economy and help the gourde gain more recognition and strength. You can also get a better sense of the prices and costs of living in Haiti, as well as experience the culture and history of the country through its currency.
- Using USD can expose you to scams or frauds, as some sellers may take advantage of your unfamiliarity with the exchange rate or the Haitian dollar. You may also pay more than the fair price or miss out on discounts or bargains that are only available in gourdes.
- Using HTG can be challenging and inconvenient, as you may have difficulty finding places to change money or get cash. You may also have to carry a lot of bills and coins, which can be bulky and unsafe.
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