By far the most populous of the Haiti’s 10 departments, the west is the seat of Haiti’s capital city, Port-au-Prince and it offers its visitors a wide array of appealing attractions as well as accommodations and entertainment for all tastes and budgets.
In the west you’ll find historic sites, natural places of relaxation, rich and varied landscapes set against the rapid thrilling pace of a bustling capital city. Port -au-Prince is Haiti’s urban center and most importantly, it’s the country’s financial and political capital.
Port-au-Prince is a densely populated urban center. Watch the scene unfold as graceful merchants carry their goods in large baskets. They elegantly balance these loads on their heads as they make their way through street traffic, past crowded tap-taps (public transportation vehicles) bustling with laughter and ambiance.
There are many beautiful public parks in Port-au-Prince including Champs de Mars which is located near the ruins of the National Palace as well as a number of ministries. Port-au- Prince is the place to encounter Haiti’s largest circuit of pictorial art galleries.
Visitors will enjoy its vivid cultural and artistic scene and delight in its very active nightlife. Just a few minutes outside of Port-au-Prince, restaurants abound, especially in the posher neighborhoods of Pétion Ville. Take the time to savor a glass of local rum before enjoying some authentic Creole cuisine.
Pétion Ville is also home to a bevy of fine dining restaurants, which serve their delicious take on world cuisine, fusing tradition and modernity in a cozy and friendly atmosphere. Don’t forget to try to the local beer.
