DECEMBER 2011
Moulin MoulinSur SurMer Mer
A A Paradise Paradise along along the the Coast Coast Franky Franky“Unik “Unik““Ernest Ernest
Using Using“Star” “Star”Power Powerto to Provide ProvideQuality QualityEducation Education Karibe KaribeHotel Hotel
Contemporary ContemporaryCaribbean CaribbeanChic Chic
FISHERMAN AT the Arcadin Coast (Côte des Arcadins)
Editor’s Note Dear Readers,
Can you believe it? This is going to be my third Christmas back home. Yeah! We are in the throes of the holiday season. Making a list and checking it twice. This year, after Artisanat en Fête, all those on my list will receive locally made trinkets and gifts. I am looking forward to all the family gatherings that make Christmas here so special. Also looking forward to having my nephews and nieces home for the holiday, the domino and card games, the beach, the food and of course the laughter. I wish you a very Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah and a Happy Kwanzaa and hope that you usher in the New Year in true Haitian style. I would like to be one of the first to welcome you to Haiti. You are lucky to be in our enchanted island during the holiday season. Nightlife during this period is paramount. Revelers take full advantage and enjoy yourselves. As you plan your holiday agenda be sure to include our beaches.
Coastal towns are inherently recreational towns, and in the December issue you will uncover La Côte des Arcadins, a popular tourist destination north of Port-au-Prince with coastal climate and distinctive attractions such as Fort Drouet built immediately after we became an independent nation in 1804; watercress basins built during colonization; the town of St. Marc; Anse à Pirogue, known for its cliffs that rise 20 meters over superb sandy beaches; and much more. Magic Haiti’s trip to the Côte des Arcadins was made possible by Conseil Régional Côte des Arcadins and Dollar Rent a Car. In “Haïti On My Mind” you will meet a successful jet setting promoter and restaurateur whose love for his country has him enlisting the support of friends and organizations to bring about change in his native home. You will also get to know artisans and a prominent Haitian writer. Mark your calendar for on December 22nd you can attend a stand-up comedy show with well known international comics and local sensation Kako. Keep your ears to the ground for there are sure to be events taking place in the provinces. The goal of the magazine is to promote local tourism by encouraging foreign professionals residing in Haïti for whatever length of time, Haitians living in the Diaspora visiting family and friends, as well as locals, to explore and discover the depth and breadth of Haïti. Our country is rich in culture and more specifically in the arts. Admittedly, Haïti may not be the island that comes to mind when planning a magical Caribbean getaway for rest and relaxation or just a simple vacation, but reconsider and you will be pleasantly surprised. By the way, obtain that unique little something for a loved one and take home a piece of Haiti. May 2012 bring you health, peace and love. I encourage you to simply Discover Haïti and experience the Magic!
Roxane Kerby
MAGIC HAITI Haiti on my mind
DECEMBER 2011 40 22 12 20 28
Franky “Unik “ Ernest
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3 6 18 8 14 24
Hot Dates
Stand Up for Haiti
Artmosphere Tis the Season for Jolly… Fanals Josiane Paillière, Embroidering, a family affair
Lamanjay Papaye, a Casual Twist on Five Star Dining
32
Spotlight My Christmas Story
Why Haiti ? Jacques Marie:Renaissance Man
On the Rise Lycée Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable A Royal investment in Haiti’s Tourism Industry
Haiti by Design Where Cultures Collide
Words in Print Kettly Mars: The Books that write me
Cover by Daniel Kedar Executive Editor Roxane Kerby 509 3492 2289 roxanekerby@magichaiti.com Copy Editors Nastasia Boulos Kristina Delatour Contributors Maureen Boyer Sherri Casting Farah Doura Rachele Viard Kassandra Elizée Graphic Designers Rody Victor Clarens Courtois Senior Photographer Frederick Alexis Photographer Homere Cardichon Printed by
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Stand Up
Haiti
for
Kako
Paying it Forward with Comedy By Roxane Kerby
J
acques Bourjolly, better known to most as “KaKo,” is a popular local comedian with a big heart and an unbelievable dedication to promoting a positive image of Haiti. But more importantly he is committed to giving back to the community. Prior to the interview, Kako mentions how shy he is and how he really does not like the limelight, but his God-given talent has propelled him right dab in the midst of it. As I welcome and thank him for speaking with Magic Haiti, he burst out laughing and says “ayyyyyyye inteview a en angle” (the interview is in English) while shaking his head. As you can imagine,
*
* Second Season will begin on Saturday, December 22nd at Karibe Hotel and will feature Canadian sensations Sugar Sammy and Ron Josol
several times during the interview we both laugh uncontrollably. His quick wit, as well as his love and passion for Haiti, is easily discernible. Through his gift of telling jokes, he brought laughter and joy to many long before he began his professional comedy career in 1994. He held a nineto-five job and rocked the stage during his free time. Though the humor was and continues to be around the clock. Inspired by his uncle Jean Maurice Bourjolly, Kako states with pride “my uncle had real talent, mad talent, he could joke about anything, his kind of talent is one of a kind.” And like his uncle Kako loved to entertain his family and friends and kept all in stitches. His delivery is on point, but his ability to get “in character” has always been beyond comparison, his facial expressions and body language keep your sides hurting. His material is honest and most often based on life, current
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 3
How to get there
Rue Jose Martin
Ou impasse des Hôtels
Vers Bourdon
Pétion-Ville
am
eric ain
e
Rue Rebeca
Rue Derenoncourt
Pa n
Rue Derenoncourt
Ru e
4 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
28.13.10.57
events, and the situation in Haiti; like many comedians, Kako provides sharp social commentary through his jokes. In January 2009, he suffered a heart attack and underwent surgery. After his recuperation he opted to ditch his day job and attached himself to the stage for a full time career in comedy. He has never looked back. Not one to rest on his talent, he believes in hard work and always trying to reach new heights and set new goals for himself. In July 2010, after the devastating earthquake, he launched Stand Up for Haiti in an effort to expose local residents to American, Canadian and international comics; to bring international stars to Haiti, expose them to various aspects of Haitian culture, cuisine, and a new fan base so that in turn, they can become ambassadors and assist in demystifying the myths about Haitians and our homeland; and finally, to expose aspiring local comedians to these international stars in an effort to help these young people hone their skills. “It is important to me that young Haitian comedians are supported and afforded opportunities that enrich them both professionally and personally. That is my passion. We have quite a few talented comedians such as Maximo, Smith Egalité, and Matthieu Antoine and many more. Whenever possible, I provide them opportunities to showcase their talent at various events. All of our artists need to be supported” says Kako. Part of the proceeds from Stand Up For Haiti help support Kako’s Smile Project, whose mission is to enhance the living conditions of underprivileged children
living in orphanages by ensuring that their basic needs are met and that they have the necessary tools to help them succeed to become self-reliant citizens. Since its establishment in October 2010, the Smile Project supports 67 boys residing at Our Father’s House and over 85 girls and young ladies at the Foyer des Filles de Dieu (Home of the Daughters of God). Since its inception, it has organized several toy and shoe drives, outings with the children, and has even helped to “makeover” Our Father’s House. To accomplish these activities, encourage civic duty, and establish dialogue, they enlist the support of privileged youth. The aforementioned serve as mentors, tutors and even friends. The First Season of Stand Up for Haiti was launched with explosive comedian Wil Sylvince and followed with nine shows that brought 17 international comics to Haiti including Tony Roberts, Pat Brown, Cocoa Brown, etc. All of these artists have graced the stage of many of the most popular televised comedy shows such as BET’s Comic View, Def Comedy Jam, Showtime at the Appollo and more. Many of these artists returned as part of Stand Up for Haiti, while others such as Tony Roberts, returned on their own to further explore Haiti. The Second Season will begin on Saturday, December 22nd at Karibe Hotel and will feature Canadian sensations Sugar Sammy and Ron Josol. Yours truly will also be there. As we countdown to the HoHoHo, take a few hours to HaHaHa and you too shall be paying it forward.
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 5
Artmosphere
Tis the Season for Jolly…
Fanals by Taïna Mayard
L
ike the Piñata in Mexico, the Diyas in India or the Flying Lanterns in China, the Fanal is symbolic of a festive season in Haiti. It is, typically, a miniature lit structure (usually a church or house) made out of cardboard and decorated with splendid color accents, like the glass windows in a cathedral. This tradition is over one hundred years old and is rumored to have originated from West Africa. Some say that fanals were created by worshippers who needed to light the path on their way to church on Christmas Eve. Though no one knows its true origins, today it is an expressive reminder that the Christmas holidays are near. Starting as early as November, you can catch sight of them all along the road of Bourdon in Port-au-Prince. At night, they resemble a parade of multicolored lights. 6 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
Like the Murano glass blowers in Venice, the fanal making skill is one that is transferred from one generation to the next. Francois Ynoce, now twenty-six, learned the trade from his older brother-in-law when he was just a young child. Others learned it from the elders in their neighborhood. Ynoce starts the process by going to the “Place Geffrard�, downtown Port-auPrince, to buy duplex cardboard, wood sticks, a ruler, a sharp pencil, thin colored paper, an exacto knife and cobbler’s glue. He first creates a wood frame (for bigger structures) or a cardboard base (for smaller ones) that will be used as a foundation. He then proceeds to draw the intricate details of a miniature structure on the cardboard that he later scorns with the knife. Colored paper is glued on the inside of the cardboard, each section subsequently pasted onto the initial foundation. The key to completing a successful piece is to create an opening big enough to fit a hand and small bottle cap topped with a small lit candle. Though most fanals are small churches and gingerbread houses, many artists, like Ynoce for example, choose to make other shapes such as birds, Christmas ornaments and stars. They also also vary in size; some are as tall as a cereal box, while others no bigger than a small coffee cup. Ynoce focuses on finalizing the house-shaped fanal that he is making me, as he
announces, sadly, that due to a decrease in demand, he may not be making these fun crafts next year. “The decline of the fanal tradition started with the increasing scarcity of electricity in Haiti,� he explains. “The little houses that used to be lit with small lamps now require candles. This transition engendered the fear that keeping a fanal in the house means increasing the risk of fire. Also, tourists have a hard time packing them to take them back to their countries.� Like many of the other artists in this craft, Francois has other sources of income throughout the year, such as carving iron sculptures. The fanal is thus an endangered species amongst Christmas traditions. Fanalmaking dexterity should be transferred from one generation to the next, but the current one is in short supply. Despite this, it continues to represent a festive
time in Haiti. Take a stroll down the road of Bourdon on an evening in mid-December. The array of these
small cardboard structures along the road is of a vision so charmingly magical, your eyes may mist.
SpĂŠcialisĂŠ en art et artisanat haĂŻtien depuis 1977 Specialized in haitian art and handicraft since 1977
Galerie MarASSA s , rue Lamarre, PĂŠtion Ville TĂŠl.: michelefrisch@yahoo.fr / galeriemarassa@yahoo.com www.galeriemarassa.com
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 7
Lamanjay
Papaye A Casual Twist
on Five Star Dining
By Rachele Viard
I
f you are looking for the perfect upscale gourmet dining experience during your stay in Haiti where the food is not only pleasing to the taste buds but also to the eye, well Papaye is sure to fit the bill. It stands out as a culinary destination in Haiti with its ever changing menu of French cuisine with a Caribbean twist.
8 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
In 2004, owners Arielle Faubert Adrien and her cousin Patricia Steed AttiĂŠ opened Papaye, with the intention of offering something a little different to patrons. Stepping inside Papaye you know you are in for a treat with the sleek and modern dĂŠcor setting the atmosphere for your gastronomic adventure. Papaye is a one of a kind restaurant that offers two distinct dining experiences; one
can opt for five star dining or casual dining. Whether choosing to dine indoors or outdoors to enjoy your gourmet repast you’ll find an elegant ambiance. The lighting inside the restaurant is very striking. The chandeliers made of fer decoupe are eyecatching and made by Chef Adrien’s twin sister, Cookie Faubert Villard. Both the indoor and outdoor dining spaces are cozy. However, the inside setting is more intimate with the dim lighting and dark wooden floors set off the all white theme carried out throughout the restaurant. There are also a few tables set up in corners that allow for more privacy if you are out to dinner with that special someone. In addition, there is a Middle Eastern themed alcove decorated with a U-shaped wraparound couch with tables and lots of candles. It is all set-off by a beautiful maroon mural with green vines painted by local artisan, Boursiquol Jn Ulrick. The perfect place to meet for drinks with friends. You will be able to feast on dishes such as yucca stuffed shrimp, angus grilled steak with béarnaise sauce, rack of lamb served with gruyere potatoes
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 9
Save more, do more
10 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
au gratin just to name a few. Whatever you select, your taste buds are sure to have a fiesta as chef Arielle’s passion for food and cooking comes through in all of her dishes. The downstairs area is ideal for a more casual dining experience. It has a modern south beach vibe with white couch seating lining each side of the restaurant decorated in mostly all white and covered by an awning. A mural of gray vines is painted over-head, and something also quite nice to look at are the vases turned into fish tanks that decorate the bar. With its own menu, you can enjoy savory meals like Kobe burgers, brick oven baked pizzas, as well as a variety of sandwiches and salads. “To spice things up and to stay current, we change the décor very often. But more impor-
tantly, our menu is revamped every three weeks to keep our patrons guessing as well as to ensure that their culinary experiences are ever changing” says Attié. Chef Adrien, who studied at the well-known French Culinary Institute in New York, not only creates appetizing meals, but pays a lot of attention to the plating. Her dishes are works of art that can be eaten and are oftentimes almost too beautiful to eat. Papaye is unique and stands out. You can visit Papaye twice and have two different dining experiences. Plainly put, it is a comfortable and relaxing place, where everyone can appreciate a delicious meal. Papaye is located at 48, Rue Metellus, Petionville. Tel: 3 558 2707/ 3771 3678
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 11
On the Rise
Lycée Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable
An Academic Oasis By Nastasia Boulos
4,992
schools were lost during the January 2010 earthquake. Close to fifty percent of the Haitian population is illiterate. What we need most, in this time of reconstruction, are heavy investments in education. I believe that with all of my heart. And so do the founders of Hand in Hand for Haiti, a foundation that is currently completing a world-class educational facility unlike anything I have ever seen in this country. Located in Saint Marc, a commune north of la Côte des Arcadins, the Lycee Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable’s collection of orange painted houses surrounded by mountains looks more like a small village than an educational compound. The perfectly constructed buildings, gardens, pathways and man-made lake give the impression of a resort. Only the dozen or so children in uniforms playing around in the yard (while simultaneously staring at the new visitors) confirm that this is, in fact, a school. Mr. Pierre-Marie Guinet, a Frenchman who has over twenty-five years of experience in education and is now working
12 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
as the school director, welcomes me into his office. My amazement at the grounds doesn’t phase him. “We like to do things a little differently here,” he says, as he begins offering details about the project. The mission of the school is to provide a quality holistic education to its students, while at the same time promoting the development of the community as a whole. “We are not just trying to develop this school,” he says. “We are working with the mayor and people locally to help develop Saint Marc as well.” Still under construction, but operating nonetheless, the Lycee Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable represents a significant commitment to education in Haiti. The school opened its doors on October 3, 2011 with six kindergarten classes for about 150 students ages 3 to 5, evenly split between boys and girls and spanning all social classes. One third of the students are from Saint Marc, which counts 80,000 school-age youngsters, of which only 52% have access to education. Lessons alternate daily between English and French, effec-
tively ensuring that, by the time the students graduate, they are trilingual (most students speak Creole at home). In each classroom there is one foreign and one Haitian teacher. They originate either from Saint Marc, Port-au-Prince or the United States. At full capacity, the school will cater to about 750 students. It will start at the nursery school level (3-years old) and end at the baccalaureate level, following the 16-year Haitian curriculum. Additional upper level classes will be added each year. Eventually, a professional school will be created for the older students, who want to be trained in the hospitality and management industry, to increase their chances of employment in the touristdriven Côte des Arcadins. The school will also provide basic health and psychological screening and assistance. A small infirmary is being built with required equipment to administer basic health care services. There will be a fulltime psychologist specializing in early childhood development, and a nutritionist will consult with the school to ensure balanced and nutritious meals. All of the buildings, which include classrooms, an administration office, a cafeteria and kitchen, library, and directors and teachers housing, are built according to international standards and are hurricane proof and anti-seismic. Each classroom has its own bathroom, shower and small kitchen area. Computers will soon be available to the students. In the next phase of the project, science labs, as well as additional classrooms, will be added.
Several sports facilities will also be built: a soccer field (international regulation) with track (which will be accessible to the Saint Marc community), and basketball and volleyball courts. In addition, construction materials have been selected, as much as possible, to ensure they meet “environment-friendly standards”. The school plans to have a minimum of 21 acres of land replanted with indigenous trees, and the school curriculum will emphasize the need to protect the environment and to think of economic development through a long-term sustainability lens. Even with all of these amenities, including two meals a day and uniforms, the school is entirely free of charge. Costs are covered by the Hand in Hand for Haiti Foundation, which fundraises through an annual grant system targeting existing corporate and individual donors. As a part of the new Haitian government’s commitment to free education, the land is state-sponsored; the school has been endorsed by the Haitian Minister of Education. The school is named after Chicago-founder Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable, who is said to be from Saint Marc. Through it, Hand in Hand for Haiti may or may not play a major role in Saint Marc’s economic, social and academic progress. But it can, and does, offer at least one student an opportunity to lift him or herself out of poverty. And that, I’d say, is already enough. To learn more about the school, or to donate, go to www.handinhandforhaiti.com
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 13
Escapade
E
ntering Juvenat’s gated community and making way to a lush area at the top of a hill one arrives at the Karibe Hotel. Spending an afternoon in this establishment, reputable in the capital and among local and international travelers, reveals more than just a lodge. Standing in the open space where daylight shines through stylistic iron work, the lobby at the Karibe sets the tone for the kind of place I’m about to visit. In the world of hotels here, this lodge is pretty fancy: we take the elevator (most hotels in Haiti only have stairs). First stop: the junior suite. A night spent here could definitely have its benefits. With a king size bed looking plush as can be, a sitting area and a balcony offering a view of the bay of Port-au-Prince, comfort and function come to mind.
By Farah Doura
Karibe Hotel Conte
My host, Mrs. Myriame Godefoy, Manager of Housekeeping, lets me know that the 87- room hotel plans to build an additional 100 rooms. In a standard room, practicality still prevails with two double beds and the same basic amenities. With adjacent bedrooms sharing the same living area, the central suite is perfect to receive families who are in town for a wedding or for a venture requiring late night meetings. It’s an example that clearly describes the kind of place that is the Karibe, currently the only hotel in Haiti which offers such diverse room options. The hotel can accommodate the busy rhythm of a consultant while tending to the pampered desires of the vacationer. Inspi14 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
rations of Birds of Paradise are omnipresent and emerge in subdued warm colors in many of the hotel’s accents. Outside, tall mahogany trees shade and soothe the air of the peaceful courtyard to the gentle sounds of flowing water and the tweeting of small birds. Several “salon en fer forgé” are set up to accommodate the moment and the breeze which, I will later realize, is felt throughout the property.
mporary Caribbean Chic Sitting in the open-air eatery, surrounded by bamboo trees swaying in the ubiquitous breeze, the prospect of feasting among the forest is appealing. It’s Caribbean chic. Peeking at the menu, I notice the basics of any international breakfast menu with a choice of Haitian staples such as soup giraumon, cassave and mamba. The grilled options are popular among lunch-goers, says Samantha Merores, the resident chef. Dinner gets a bit fancier with à la carte selections of lamb, salmon and lobster. My meals arrive. First, the griyo and banane pesée dressed with the traditional perfectly flavored shallot sauce. DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 15
Photo: Daniel Elie / ISPAN
The hot peppers of the chicken breast topped with pineapple salsa kick it up a notch: “a dish geared toward fusion” Merores states. The steamed red snapper of the poisson gros sel is delicately meaty and moist. I finally meet the big boss himself. Mr. Richard Buteau, Karibe’s General Manager, kindly agrees to share his vision and mission for the hotel. On customer service, the philosophy is that everyone working on the premises represents Haiti: “They are Ambassadors of Haiti.” A pleasant experience at the Karibe represents a pleasant experience in Haiti and we want people to have a good impression of the country when they leave” says Buteau. To think that many moons ago the property served as a monastery, the place today consistently evokes practical and modern Caribbean life: “We want to serve as a model of what Haiti could look like. We want to portray the best of
it,” Buteau explains. And this, it certainly does. A pioneer in its field, the convention center at the Karibe has allowed Haiti to host regional meetings never before possible. With state of the art conference and board rooms available, the Karibe Convention Center has become the focal point for conferences and meetings to discuss the development of Haiti. In the true spirit of a hotel that provides services well beyond simple
lodging, there are a host of recreational facilities: pool, tennis court and gym are available for guests. After a long day of work or just because, clients can escape to the Botanik Spa for some therapeutic care. This Zen nest can please most hearts. Go for the Gommage au café Haitien. The tour is over and it’s time to leave. I’m practically nostalgic come to think of it. On my way out, the last quote from Mr. Buteau resonates: “It’s very customary for a guest on a business trip to say that he will come back with his wife the next time he stays at the hotel”. I come to think that if a businessman can bring the one dearest to him in a country always stamped with negative travel advisories, then the Karibe Hotel must have done one heck of a job representing the country where it belongs. Mission accomplished!
16 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011 Photo: Daniel Elie / ISPAN
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 17
Artmosphere
Josiane Paillière
Embroidering, a family affair By Kassandra Elyzee
W
hen she was a young teenager, Josiane Paillière watched her mother working countless hours day and night, tirelessly embroidering to keep up with orders of all sorts. Whether it was a client, a friend or a family member expecting a dress
to wear on Christmas day or a set of tablecloths to complement a beautifully adorned dinner table to celebrate the New Year, it wasn’t unusual for Paillière’s mother to be stitching away on holidays. “I told my mother once that I would never find myself in that situation, that embroider-
ing would never become such an important part of my life like it was in hers,” Josiane says. And indeed for years it was just a hobby, a fun past time. But eventually, Josiane started getting clients who grew fond of her work and were actually willing to pay to get a handmade crafty piece of art.
In 2005, Josiane opened her store, “Josiane Hand Embroidered Linen Works,” in Pétion Ville. Today she finds herself embroidering lastminute orders on December 31st, working the same endless hours that her mother did. She’s even had to sacrifice quality time with her husband to keep up with the demand. She has participated in almost every artisan fair in Haiti, the latest being the annual Artisanat en Fête where she was honored as one of the top five 2011 Artisans. She says she never expected to win anything, but when she did, she saw it as recognition for all the hard work she’s done through the years to develop her business. She began taking part in Artisanat en Fête the second year it was created, and makes sure to come up with new and creative pieces to showcase each year. Even though she learned the basics of sewing and embroidering in school when she was still a young girl, Josiane’s perfection in the craft comes from hours of watching and practicing alongside her mother. She tells me, with a reminiscent look on her face, of the time when, under her mother’s guidance, she made her first dress. It was initially her school uniform skirt, but her mother had her turn it into a sack dress (a loose, one-piece unbelted dress that hangs straight from the shoulder to the hemline, following the body’s shape without necessarily being close-fitting). Inside her store, decorated in a manner that re-
flects her personality and simplicity, are a few glass counters where some of her pieces are carefully displayed. The items made out of linen and other natural fibers, range from clothes such as tanks, blouses and dresses to kitchen accessories such as tablemats to stylish pouch bags. The diverse products are predominantly white but also include light, pastel colors that convey summer time and fit in with Haiti’s tropical weather. The linen she uses is mostly purchased in Haiti but sometimes when Josiane travels, she finds some material that she likes and buys it to embroider future pieces. “The material comes from wherever the wind brings it to me” she says. Her inspiration? “I’m inspired by nature,” Josiane says with passion in her voice. “Oftentimes, something as simple as a beautiful flower can trigger my creativity and give me ideas of a shape which I try to recreate in my sewing.” To Josiane, the most fulfilling part of what she does is when she has given a shape to a piece of linen and finds herself gazing at it wondering what she should make out of it. Although she has about 20 employees in the capital and in the provinces embroidering throughout the year on a part-time basis, Josiane sometimes has to retouch their work to better suit her clients’ needs or her vision of what the end product should look like. Besides embroidering, Josiane is a teacher by profession.
She started teaching at the age of 22 when she was still attending teacher-training college. She worked for many different educational institutions before she and her husband opened a school of their own, Collège Frantz Pallière. Josiane truly believes that the future of Haitian art
and crafts relies immensely on Artisanat en Fête because it is, to her, the most prominent annual event that succeeds in promoting Haitian art in all of its facets to the national and international community. The latter is possible thanks to the different actors who through their knowledge of the sector and professionalism, never fail to make Artisanat en Fête a success every year. When asked what message she has for young up and coming Haitian artisans, Josiane answers “Kenbe la, pa lage,” which means in Creole, “Hang in there, don’t give up”. Mrs. Paillière’s store is located at 42, Rue Magny, Pétion Ville (entrance of Emina’s Garden & Festival Arts), Tel: 3401-0316, 3455-1010 DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 19
On the rise
A R o y a l INVESTMENT in Haiti’s Tourism Industry
by Cynthia Hage
20 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
H
ar vard- educated Haitian entrepreneur Jerry Tardieu believes that it would be ‘suicidal’ not to make tourism a pillar of development in Haiti. “I can unequivocally attest to the fact
that Haiti is one of the most beautiful islands of the Caribbean. Tourism should be at the cornerstone of its development. It is the way to the future,” says Tardieu. Indeed, sustainable growth in Haiti’s tourism industry will help create much-needed jobs, attract foreign exchange, and support broader economic development in the country.
With this in mind, a group of Haitian and foreign investors, led by Tardieu, have launched one of the biggest and most ambitious hotel projects in Haiti: the Royal Oasis. Sprawled over a threeacre beautifully landscaped property, the hotel is located in the heart of Pétion-Ville, which has now gradually evolved to become Haiti’s most important business, commercial and touristic hub. Currently in construction, Royal Oasis will offer 130 upscale rooms during the first phase. Its spacious rooms will be equipped with modern and contemporary furniture and accessories, decorated with a touch of Haitian culture and warmth. Amenities will include 13 elegant shops, an art gallery, a bank, business facilities, a convenient store, a lobbybar, and a stunning rooftop overlooking the bay of Portau-Prince. Even the most demanding international travelers will appreciate the array of services that will be offered: everything from chauffeur service and airport pick-up and drop off to a car
rental desk, laundry services, and 24-hour on-call medical services. Fine dining will be a part of the Royal Oasis experience thanks to its three restaurants, lounge and lobby-bar offering an extraordinary selection of local and international cocktails. The Hotel will open in the summer of 2012 under management of Spanish hospitality chain Occidental Hotels & Resorts (OHR), one of the world’s leading hotel companies and largest allinclusive resort chains in the Americas. OHR has more than 20 properties in key destinations under the Allegro, Occidental Grand and Royal Hideaway brands. Each one is perfectly suited to address the leisure travel needs of its market segment. In recent years, Occidental has made the strategic business decision to broaden its portfolio of hotels, expanding from mainly an all-inclusive resorts concept to a business-hotel concept, such as Royal Oasis. “More than ever,” says Tardieu, “Haiti’s capital needs hotel rooms of international standards as it prepares to welcome record numbers of business travelers, professionals, foreign expatriates, and NGO staff who will be involved in the country’s ongoing reconstruction process that will extend for many years to come.” Originally, the Royal Oasis was mainly a multi-use real estate development project – with different restaurants and lots of office and commercial space for rent – with only a small hospitality component. Following the January
12th quake, however, Tardieu and his partners (who operate under the Oasis Group) decided to convert the office and commercial space into hotel rooms to fill part of the huge void in the hospitality market and increase the availability of international standard hotel rooms in the capital. Future plans for the Royal Oasis property include the development of a condo and apartment building.
The Oasis Group is also involved in numerous social and philanthropically activities through its foundation, the Oasis Foundation. “Corporate social responsibility is at the core of the Oasis philosophy,” explains Tardieu. Currently, the Oasis Foundation flagship project is the rehabilitation of Haiti’s hospitality training school, L’Ecole Hôtelière d’Haïti, in collaboration with the Clinton
Bush Haiti Fund, USAID, the Haiti Tourism Association and the Ministry of Tourism. The foundation will also support programs aimed at youth and sports and will continue to support different community projects based on need. There are those who worry that the hospitality market will become saturated, as NGOs leave and the demand for hotel rooms declines. “In the best-case scenario,” replies Tardieu, “there will be less than 1,000 rooms available in Port-au-Prince once all new projects are completed including expansion of existing hotels.” Isn’t that enough? “No,” says the 44-year-old entrepreneur, “it will not be enough once Haiti takes off and becomes a developing country with a two-digit economic growth yearly.”
Room Design by Cecilia Russo
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 21
Why Haiti?
Jacques Marie
Renaissance Man by Farah Doura
M
eeting Mr. Marie was quite a pleasure. Very willing to welcome and answer my questions, I’m invited to step into the office of the Tourism Association of Haiti (ATH) where this debonair Frenchman plays an active role in the development of Haiti’s tourism, in which his vision has already made a dif-
22 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
ference. In town for his weekly meetings, my subject is ready to talk. With the recorder on, the interview begins. “Who are you?” is the first question asked. A very well accomplished man, tall with an infectious smile and sparkling blue eyes, Mr. Marie has traveled the world as an executive in production for two leading titans of the petroleum industry. A geologist by trade, he fell in love with Haiti even before
having been here. He married one of us. He met his wife, the daughter of a Haitian Diplomat, in Holland (evidence that one can find a Haitian in any corner of this world) and they married in Libya. A year or so later, Mr. Marie visits what he had experienced through the eyes of his wife; he arrives in Haiti for the first time in 1970. When asked to share his first moments upon arrival,
he starts with a little anecdote about being welcomed in the Salon Diplomatique of the National Airport by the happy hoard of in-laws awaiting his family of three. Standing there, he nervously watched his baby girl pass from one loving aunt to the next for welcome kisses. We laugh. What comes out of his mouth next is heartfelt. Mr. Marie describes what marked him the most: his first morning in
Haiti. “I remember one thing. In the morning we started to smell the coffee roasting in the pan and then we heard the pounding and, at 5:30 am, the coffee arrived in the room and that made everything different.” It certainly must have because while he continued to work in Haiti for the oil industry some 36 years later, our Frenchman switched gears. The charm of the country’s natural beauty and ultimately touristic potential enticed Mr. Marie to become more rooted by venturing along the Côtes des Arcadins. He partners up with some long-time friends to acquire the former Club Med and becomes General Manager, President and even sweeper when needed of the now reputable Club Indigo, one of the most frequented resorts in Haiti.
A man of social responsibility, he also runs a small association in the area to promote development. “Although life is difficult, everyone who has been to Haiti wants to help one way or the other because there is something that makes you feel you can do something and can see the results right away. There is this human contact you have in Haiti”, he states to
sum up his philosophy on the creation of the association. In this paradise in the middle of the inferno/purgatory, Mr. Marie must have had days where he regretted his move. “Never, never!” he replies shaking his head. Having traveled to the other seventeen countries in the Caribbean, I find out he feels so much better in Haiti, “a country with character”.
On a side note, I am kindly informed of my interviewee’s patriotic duties as Elected Council for the Caribbean to represent the French of the region. Our Renaissance man is one of many hats. When asked if he speaks the local language, Mr. Marie reveals that he perfectly understands but chooses not to speak it. Why? Out of respect for this country’s colonial past, he explains. And besides, his native French gets him around. I nevertheless ask for some favorite colloquial expressions. He offers a couple and the customary Si dye vle (God willing) is of course one of them. Our smile, before we part ways, is the tacit acknowledgment that this idiom inevitably concludes most statements when speaking of future plans in the country.
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 23
Escapade
Moulin Sur Mer A Paradise along the Coast By Rachele Viard
L
a C么te des Arcadins, a spectacular seaside coast about an hour north of Port-au-Prince, attracts thousands and thousands of local and international visitors all year long. It boasts beautiful beachside hotels and resorts of all types where couples, families and friends can escape for a week, weekend, or even just for the day to relax and decompress. 24 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
One such place is Moulin Sur Mer, a family-owned business built by well-known local architect Mr. Gerard Fombrun. He purchased the property in 1975 because he enjoyed the coast and believed that it had potential, and right he was! Five years later the hotel opened its doors to the public. Upon entering the grounds of Moulin Sur Mer you are surrounded by beautiful
foliage and gardens full of color. In fact, no matter where you are on the property (more than 12 acres) there are welldesigned blooming gardens and trees. Mr. Fombrun credits his wife, Nicole, for the landscape. “She has been here from the beginning,” he says, “I am very proud of her.” The hotel is now managed by Mr. Fombrun’s son, Charles, a civil engineer. When asked how he feels now with his son taking over, Fombrun states “I am very proud of Charles’ accomplishments. Moulin Sur Mer will always remain in the family.” Indeed, there is a certain kind of warmth and family friendly vibe at the resort. Like his father, Charles speaks passionately about Moulin Sur
Mer. “We strive to provide our guests, both children and adults, with diverse activities to ensure that they have an enjoyable stay,” he says. “We are in the middle of major changes here; we are renovating our rooms so that they meet international standards and provide the utmost comfort to our guests. We are in the process of building a marina to stock boats, and plan in the future to also have an inland wet marina. By summer 2012 we will provide our guests with boat excursions, scuba diving and outings.” But even now, one doesn’t have to venture far from their hotel room to partake in fun-filled activities. Simply walking around the property provides enough entertainment: before you reach the reception area, right there in the middle of a roundabout, is a huge cage where you can meet Domingo, the house pet monkey. A few steps away you will find a natural pond, home to striking ducks and fish. Not what you’d expect in a seaside resort. Benches across from the pond provide a great place to sit with a good book or for a “tête a tête.” Sports lovers are able to kayak, swim in the pool or in the ocean, play basketball, volleyball or enjoy the mini golf course. There is a children’s playground with a swing DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 25
set, monkey bars and a tree house-like structure complete with a slide and a climbing wall. And for those guests who just have to stay in touch with the outside world there is WiFi access on the property. Nature and history buffs can also hike and visit the Ogier-Fombrun Museum, which houses very ancient artifacts. There you can learn stories dating from the preColombian Indian era to colonial times of 1794, when Haiti used to be the largest producer of sugar in the Caribbean. The property is an authentic sugar cane plantation whose ruins were totally recovered by Mr. Fombrun during more than 35 years of personal involvement. An authentic stone aqueduct continues to run water to a gigantic 20 feet wooden wheel which was used to extract the juice from the cane. Moulin Sur Mer is comprised of four bungalows and 64 rooms set in colonial style architecture. The air-conditioned rooms are comfortable and decorated 26 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
with bright tropical colors and include a terrace or a balcony. The rooms either face the gardens or the Bay de la Gonâve. Bungalow #1, however, has the most spectacular view of the bay with double doors that access a large terrace. Though all the rooms are not equipped with televisions just yet, I truly don’t think any guest will even have the time to miss it with all the sites and activities there are to take in during his or her stay. In addition, Moulin Sur Mer can accommodate seminars, workshops, and training sessions since it has three conference rooms equipped with state-of-the-art materials. The restaurant has three dining areas, all of which overlook the Bay de la Gonâve: The Voumtak, Le Boucanier and L’Espadon. The menu offers a twist on local favorites such as lambi (conch) in a creole sauce, tasso dinde (fried turkey chunks), as well lobster and other dishes for vegetarians. You’ll be able to pair your
meal with a number of fresh locally-made juices, soft drinks including Haiti’s own Cola Couronne, the award-winning local beer Prestige, or a glass of wine. On Sundays, live classical or soft Caribbean mu-
sic is played during Brunch. With beautiful gardens, appetizing food, and activities galore, Moulin Sur Mer is the perfect venue to hold a wedding or to go on a honeymoon. While walking the grounds one can
see the pride and hard work that went into creating such a unique and charming getaway for all to enjoy. From the care and time that went into designing and planting the gorgeous gardens, to the savory menu to the kid’s
playground and everything else in between. Indeed a paradise along the coast. For more information about Moulin Sur Mer, go to www.moulinsurmer.com
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 27
On theby rise Haiti Design
Where Cultures Collide
to be built. The hardest part, according to Theard, was finding an architect who would build her dream home exactly the way she designed it. “I am a very picky person, I hardly ever make concessions,” she says. “I even took a month and a half off from work to supervise the final details of the house such as putting down mosaics and making the alcoves in the walls.” Pascale was born in Haiti and moved to Paris to pursue her studies when she was fourteen. Her mother, a professor, came from France. Her father, an industrial worker, came from Aquin, a city southwest of the Haitian capital. As I look around, it becomes obvious that
By Kassandra Elizée
W
hen I arrived at Pascale Theard’s home, an imposing gate slowly opened to uncover a long pathway leading to the back of the house, where the main entrance turned out to be. The door opened before I even knocked, and Ms. Theard welcomed me into her home with a warm and friendly smile. I didn’t know what to expect. I felt like the Wizard of Oz entering Emerald City. Completed in 2008, the house took a year and a half Pascale Théard
28 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
this duality of cultures is represented in Ms. Theard’s house. In designing her home, for example, she wanted to incorporate a Moorish Villa style (characterized by large interior courtyards shaped in squares with gardens almost overflowing into the house) into a more traditional Haitian architecture with a touch of contemporary designs. The house is built in a very open man-
ner. The white walls, high ceiling in the foyer and the interior decoration awakens all of the senses from the very first moment you enter. Two large oak wood doors are located in the living room right above the couch, acting as a sort of giant window, which can be left open or closed with two big iron hooks. From there, you can inhale and smell the natural breeze and admire a panoramic view of Port-au-Prince’s metropolitan area. Pascale likes to mix Haitian artisan work with modern designs; the interior of her home encompasses German designer living room sets and Haitian handmade oak and ma-
hogany wooden furnishings. Her kitchen walls are covered with small colorful paintings that most often tell everyday stories and of the challenges Haitian peasants face. The kitchen counter is covered with colorful ceramics; again, the work of Haitian art crafters. Since building her house, Pascale has been widely acclaimed for her creativity and is often called upon to work on interior designing ventures. She worked, for example, on decorating the historical “Marché en Fer” (iron market) located in downtown Port-au-Prince. When she is contracted, she works with a team of artisans who help her innovate and come up
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 29
with a product that is gratifying to both the client and herself. In 2008, she created her brand, “Pascale Théard Creations,”where she designs her own line of sandals and leather accessories. Many of Pascale’s works such as argile lamps, straw chairs and carpets are found inside her home. She says she is greatly inspired by “vèvè”, which are Haitian Voodoo symbols, when creating new pieces of art like decorated cushions for her living room. “My job is to promote Haitian art,” says the artist, who has worked in luxury homes and “Haute Couture” in Paris. She does so through a society of artisans whom she collaborates with on different projects, ef-
30 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
fectively bringing artisans from all social backgrounds together as one. She admires Haitian artisans whose unique “knowhow” comes right in tune with her vision when it comes to the concepts and ambiance she tries to create through her work, making it natural for her to collaborate with them. “The end product is always magical,” she says with a smile on her face. It is clear that Haitian and European backgrounds have merged together to create a savvy art connoisseur. Though art was just a hobby to Pascale Theard in the beginning, it has now become an integral part of her life. The originality of what she creates will ensure that she will leave her mark on Haitian art history.
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 31
Words in Print
The Books that write me
Kettly Mars “
By Taïna Mayard
Nature has given me the gift of a pretty face, neither white nor black, neither thick nor too thin, rather tall with prominent and alert muscles. I can be described as a brown mulatto, a stamp or an improved ‘grimaud’. If they are not straight,
32 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
my cinnamon curls do not possess the harsh texture of pure Negroes.[...] My nose is a combination of Caucasian muff adorned with quivering nostrils. My plump and well hemmed lips embody the promise of pleasure.” These terms were originally used to describe the main character (Rico) of Kettly Mars’s award winning novel: The Hybrid
hour (2005). Upon meeting Mars, however, it becomes obvious that the aforementioned description is more autobiographical. Mars’s work is a clear reflection of the writer’s personality and ideologies at different stages of her life. Sitting quietly in her front garden, the tired, yet collected Kettly Mars shares some of the major turning points of her life. It all began in Port-auPrince in the modest home of a middle class Haitian family of five children. Kettly Mars, then Kettly Pierre, is the youngest with four older brothers; her father, Andre Pierre is a civil engineer and mother Marie Duverneau, a teacher and dressmaker. One of Mars’ most vivid recollections is of her parents’ declining marriage, largely due to her mother’s ambitions of becoming an entrepreneur at a time when husbands typically expected housewives and mothers for wives. Mars often writes about that period in her life. It is referred to as a time of both misunderstanding and curiosity, when a dictatorship reigned the country. Her book: Saisons Sauvage (Savage Seasons) (2010) is a clear statement of that. Like many of the “privileged” middle class women of her country, Kettly Mars had the opportunity to attend private school. She spent most of her high-school years at the “Centres d’Etudes Secondaires” where she discovered the wonders of poetry and reading. There, she also met the eminent literature professor, Pradel Pompilus, who encouraged her to undertake journalism and literature studies at the Sorbonne in France. Like many Haitian
women, in spite of these strong literary influences, Mars opted for a more practical education in administration. This turning point in her life is described as a time of frustration. Fortunately, the creative passion is something that was in her blood and writing became her life and strength. “Today I have no regrets and I think that these circumstances make me the writer I am today; with my peculiarities, my world, my voice. From this experience I can tell all those who have an unrealizable dream that they should never give up hope. There always comes a time when a small window of opportunity puts you in a position where you must take a leap of faith. The key is to believe in this dream.” An important turning point leading to Mars’ thriving writing career was her marriage to the grandson of Jean Price. Price has been recog-
nized as one of the country’s prominent literary personas. “When I started writing I found encouragement from my husband and my new family, while it could have been otherwise,” she says. “Let me explain; my in-laws, a family with an intellectual tradition, found it only natural that I manifested a fondness for writing. My father-in-law, Louis Mars, read my first poems and subsequently continually advised and encouraged me. He gave me the keys to his prestigious library. I consider myself lucky to have been afforded such immense support. In our community, often, women/wives with a penchant for writing and art are generally discouraged by their spouses and/or their family circle. These attempts at emancipation are not always viewed in a positive light. ” The author rejoices in the current times and the freedom
to be whomever she pleases. When prompted about the challenges of being a woman, wife, mother and writer living in Haiti today, she replies systematically: “IT IS A MYTH.” True, there were difficulties for women who wanted to engage in creative endeavors, but luckily it’s a trend that is fading with my generation. Anyone who really wants to write will not allow his or herself to be stopped by anything or anyone. There’s just a price to pay in life for the choices that we make. I am a citizen, a human being, who chose the profession of writing. Opting to be a full time writer is just as demanding for a man.” Most of Mars’ characters are women. There is an obvious subtlety in her sense of feminism. She believes that “all should carry their fight with their own weapons.” According to her, “women are full citizens and therefore DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 33
with the same rights and duties as their male partners. Life is a battle and everyone does the best they can. Assertive as a woman writer, addressing tabooed subjects in general, questioning the status of Haitian women in the various aspects of their lives and in the different layers of society is a way for me to be a voice defending women’s causes. That said, I am not a classic feminist by definition.” Mars does, however, clearly identify herself as a Haitian citizen. “I feel good in Haiti. ‘Haiti se lakay” (Haiti is home). In fact, Haiti is my primary source of inspiration. I think our history, our culture, our traditions, our spirituality, our way to accommodate the past and present, our politics, how we love and create are inexhaustible subjects that inspire me and I want to offer them to the world with a different perspective. I hope, in doing so, to change the way others view my country. I do not know whether it can be
34 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
called loyalty, for it is not a choice I made consciously, but something that was imposed on me, like a book that writes me, instead of me writing it.” The soul of Haiti is complex and fascinating, she says, and a lifetime is not enough to explore it. She also believes that the uniqueness of the Haitian culture is found universally in mankind, making it a pleasurable exercise for her to relate her perspective to the world. Mars participates in cultural activities all over the country. She meets young people, opens their eyes and helps raise their confidence in their own potential. She recently returned from the first National Poetry Festival held in Jeremie, a province situated in the south of the country, which allowed her to rediscover the beauty of the Grande-Anse. The “Maison Barbancourt” awarded Kettly Mars with a scholarship to work on a novel last June. This book is due out during the annual “Livres en Folie” next year.
Haiti on my mind
Using
Franky “Unik “ Ernest Bel Air Air
, Haiti is a long way from the south of France, a stumping ground for the rich and famous. And yet, that is exactly where we find successful promoter, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Franky “Unik” Ernest. He is a charismatic leader full of life, omnipresent and, most of all, committed to the task at hand – the children. Born in Haiti in the summer of 1971, Unik attended the Petit Seminaire College Saint-Martial until he moved to Miami in 1990 “to get a real shot at success,” he says. And a real shot he got! Due to his willingness to learn, his perseverance, his determina-
36 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
“Star”
Power to Provide Quality Education
tion, and most of all his self-discipline, Unik is now a renowned club owner and restaurateur who has successfully established fashionable restaurants from Manhattan and the Hamptons in New York to Florianpolis, Brazil and St. Tropez in France. P.M. Lounge, his first personal endeavor in 2003, was credited for attracting illustrious individuals to New York’s meatpacking district. “This project was particularly special because all the media was making a point to say it was owned by Haitians. So we were proud Haitians who opened the hottest place in the middle of Manhattan where you will find Prince on the drum, Bono dancing with Penelope Cruz and the list goes on. I thank God for the blessings” proclaims Unik with pride in his eyes and a huge smile on his face.
P.M. Lounge was followed by various profitable ventures including Merkato 55, Bijoux Lounge in Manhattan, Lily Pond in the Hamptons, and to his latest establishment, the Pool Beach in St. Tropez where he operated a Bohemian/Caribbean chic beachside enterprise during the height of the tourist season this past summer. “Although I operate all these venues which offer fine cuisine, my favorite dish by far is poisson gros sel” he says. As if that type of notoriety was not enough, this “Nightlife King,” as he is commonly
referred to, is also the most sought after event planner. He has thrown lavish parties for the likes of Lionel Richie, socialite Denise Rich, Jamie Foxx, and Richard Branson, just to name a few. Companies such as Nike, Diesel, La
Perla, Valentino, Volkswagen, Virgin Mobile, Microsoft, Def Jam, Lufthansa Airlines and Interscope Records have also taken advantage of his talent. Needless to say, his company Lokee Worldwide Productions is known internationally.
He willingly concedes that Haitian Carnival is at the root of his success. “Carnival played a key role in my life. I looked forward to it every year. My very favorite one was the year that I left Haiti in 1990. Boukman Eksperyans and their song Ke
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 37
m pa Sote (loosely translated as ‘stress free’) was really, really good. It gives me and my events a special energy that my competition does not possess and it also helps me set up my events in an organic way” he proudly states. The notoriety and the fame have not deterred this jetsetter. Unik has never lost sight of his roots, of the homeland he loves and holds dear. On the contrary it has enabled him to use “star” power to help empower Haitian children. Unik always helped in an informal manner, but on July 4, 2007, he launched the “Edeyo” Foundation which has been supporting disfranchised youth in Bel-Air (near downtown Port-au-Prince) for the past 4 years. Edeyo established the Ecole Hervé Romain to provide quality education to children who might otherwise not have access. The school was moved to Rue Geffrard a couple of blocks from
38 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
Champs de Mars. Unfortunately, the earthquake of 2010 completely destroyed the school and they lost four students. Edeyo is now operating the School in its previous location in BelAir. With a student body of approximately 350, Edeyo provides the students with free schooling, uniforms, books, school materials, and a hot nutritional meal daily. Graduates of the school are enrolled in reputable schools such as Anglade and Externat La Providence. Edeyo covers their tuition and acquisition of books as long as they maintain a B average. “Unik has always been ambitious and I always knew that he would succeed. I am proud of him, proud of his professional accomplishments. But I am most proud that he knows who he is and where he comes from,” states Maude Saab, his mother. “Education is important, it can change lives, but in order for our stu-
dents to excel and reach their full potential, a good academic program is not sufficient. In order for them to excel they must be healthy. And health means that they are physically fit, that they have good hygiene and that they know how to keep their mouth and teeth healthy, amongst other things,” says Unik. To achieve this goal Unik was able to garner the support of one of the Foundation’s board members, Dr. Lee Gause, who was named one of New York’s premier providers of general, cosmetic and implant dental care by Seniors Advocate and a preferred provider by Invisalign. He also enlisted the support of Dr. Suzette Stines, who was instrumental in rebuilding the dental school in Haiti. “This past November in collaboration with the Université Notre Dame d’Haiti and the Faculté d’Odontologie we conducted medical and dental screenings for our
students and we are in the process of developing treatment plans to treat existing conditions as well as ensuring annual check-ups” Unik says passionately. When asked what his favorite place in Haiti is, he responds without blinking, “Bel-Air.” Why Bel-Air of all places? “It is not only where I have been working with 300 families and children for more than four years; when I go there I feel that I am part of a community that has embraced us; they're really depending on us for some basic needs.” He is not only the Nightlife King but also, and maybe, more importantly the King of Bel-Air. Edeyo Foundation P.O. Box 30261 New York, NY 10011 646-537-1716 info@edeyo.org | www.edeyo.org
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 39
Spotlight
My Christmas Story
By Maureen Boyer
I
t’s December 24th. It’s warm but the air seems cooler and lighter than usual. Even Mother Nature received the memo; it’s a day of celebration. The sun has barely set, the last rays of sunshine have painted a deep orange glow over the city. The artisans who create the delicate paper lamps in the shapes of houses and cathedrals have started lighting tiny candles and placed them inside their creations; these lamps are called fanals. The roads are lit with fanals, small ones, big ones, bright ones and slightly dimmer ones. Far away mischievous children play with firecrackers. Less adventurous ones run around
40 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
with sparklers creating shapes and imagination with twinkling lights. Families start heading towards church. Men in suits, women in their Sunday best, little girls in pretty dresses with layers of lace and older ladies with colorful wide hats, all head to midnight mass. The only things brighter than the fanals and the Christ-
mas lights decorating the restaurants and the storefronts are the faces of the people. The l a u g h i n g, the singing, the union. Young men congregate around the food and liquor street merchants to buy kremas, a milk and coconut based sweet cocktail. The older men sit together, reminisce, talk about politics with the French Christmas jingles as background music. As the night sets in, Portau-Prince becomes a city of stars. Loud pop music can be heard coming from the different speakers of neighborhood
DJs. Young people flock toward the lights and the sounds of the night. Somewhere a small child is waiting for midnight to open presents. Somewhere a family gathers together to enjoy a meal cooked with love. Somewhere a group of women is praying for a better future. Somewhere a young couple is dancing like they’ve never danced before. Christmas brings out the best of Haiti. It’s a time for love, happiness and family. The best memories in Haiti were created during this special holiday season. Now it’s your turn to create unforgettable memories of Christmas in Haiti. What are you waiting for?
Kreyol Flair
by
Chef Stephan
Roasted Leg of Pork DIRECTIONS
TOTAL TIME: Prep Time: Cook Time:
5 Hours 1 Hour 4 Hours
YIELD:
25 Servings
LEVEL:
Easy
INGREDIENTS
1 Leg of pork (15-20lbs) 4 cups of Sour Orange juice 1 gallon white vinegar 1 cup black peppercorn 1 cup of sea salt 1 bottle of Haitian Rum 1 lb. brown sugar
Clean the leg of pork with the sour orange juice throughout so that the skin is clean. Place the leg of pork in a stock pot or lexan and let the pork soak for an hour in a liquid combination of the vinegar, peppercorn and salt. Cover the rest of the pork with water. In the same liquid, boil the pork for another hour. Skim out the fat of the pork liquid and mix with the sugar and the rum to make a glaze. Let the liquid reduce until it starts to thicken. Cover the leg of pork with the hot liquid and put it in a preheated oven at 45O degrees and let cook for 1Â hour.
Every hour after thereafter, take the liquid and baste the leg of pork until the skin becomes very crispy and the internal temperature reaches approximately 140 degrees. You will need to use a thermometer. Take out of the leg of pork and place it in a beautiful platter and decorate as you wish. Enjoy this holiday recipe.
facebook.com/magichaiti
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 41
restaurants
Acajou Restaurant & Bar
Café de l'Europe
Anba Tonèl, Bar & Grill
Chez Wou
Haitian/international Cuisine Hôtel Montana Rue Frank Cardozo, Bourdon 2940 0585 / 3880 6610 Haitian Cuisine Angle des Rues Clerveaux et Villate. PV 3403 0822
French Cuisine 17. Rue Mangonès. Berthé. PV 3 406 8525 / 3 464 0468 / 3 702 5591 Chinese Place Boyer, PV 3777 6625 / 3777 6626
Chicken Fiesta
Emina's Garden
Kay Atizan
Fabrizio
L'Olivier
Fior Di Latte
La Coquille
Italian Cuisine 36, Rue Magny, PV 3747 1177 / 2816 2005 Itilian Cuisine 26, Rue Louverture, PV 2257 8433
Haitian Cuisine 6, Rue Ogé. PV 2 940 0041
American and Chinese Cuisine 124. Rue Panaméricaine. PV 2813 9866
Italian Cuisine Choucoune Plaza, Angle des Rues Lamarre et Chavannes, PV 2813 0445
Babako
Citronelle
il Vigneto
Assiette Créole
Haitian Cuisine 254. avenue John Brown. Lalue 2813 1912
BreakTIme
Haitian Cuisine 38. Rue Darguin. PV 3515 6262 / 3554 0027
Café Com' Ça
Fusion Complexe Promenade. Angles Rues Grégoire et Moïse, PV 2943 2014 / 3444 0607
42 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
Haitian Cuisine Shodecosa, 5 Rue des NÎmes 3558 8387
Coin des Artistes
Haitian Cuisine 59, Rue Panaméricaine, PV 3747 1163
Domino's Pizza
Fast Food 91, Rue Panaméricaine, PV 2514 7574 / 2813 1446 2813 1447
Italian Cuisine 7, Rue Rigaud, PV 3419 2050 / 3736 5414
HANG Sports Bar & Grill
31, angle des Rues Clerveaux et Rigaud, PV 2942 4264
Intrigue
Italian Cuisine Hôtel Ibo Lélé, Montagne Noire, PV 2940 8504
Haitian Cuisine 43, Rue Magny, PV 3456 6989 / 3452 1772 Haitian Cuisine 37, route Montagne Noire 3455 4454 / 3467 0707 Haitian Cuisine 10, Rue Rebecca, PV 2942 5225 / 3466 3908
La Plantation
French Cuisine Rue Borno, Bois Moquette, 22941 6334
La Réserve - ATH
2, Rue Marcel Toureau, Berthé, PV 2940 0190
La Souvenance French Cuisine 48, Rue Geffrard, PV 3475 9795
La Table de Cauis
16, Rue Legitime, Champs de Mars 2940 7227
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 43
Le Christo Villa Russo
Corner Rue Faubert & Ogé, 3736 4166
Le Daily Gourmet Cafe
Océane Bar & Grill
Haitian Cuisine 3 bis. Rue Derenoncourt PV 2940 2449
Rue Roumain off Tabare same yard as Maison Handal across Parc Canne a Sucre. Email: Ledailycafe@gmail.com +509 3411 5274
Papaye
Le Florville
Italian Cuisine 36. Rue Chavonnes, PV 2 813 2100 / 2 813 2200
Haitian Cuisine Kenscoff 3551 3535 / 3449 6161
Le P'tit Creux
Haitian Cuisine 87, Rue Rebecca, PV 2942 3892 / 2942 3893
Le Paris St Tropez
88, route de Kenscoff, Laboule 12 3410 7219
Les 3 Decks - ATH Fusion 3 bis, Fermathe 54, 3418 8511 / 3462 6201
Fusion 48. Rue Métellus. PV 3558 2707 / 3771 3678
Pizza Garden
Presse Café
Haitian Cuisine 28, Rue Rigaud. PV 3 701 0092
Quartier Latin
Fusion 10, Rue Gou/ard. Place Boyer. PV 3460 3326 / 3445 3325
Rebo Expresso
25, Rue Métellus. PV 2949 0505
Les Délices Burger
The Bookstore Cafe & Wine Bar
Les Jardins de Gérard
The Lodge
Fast Food 97, Rue Grégoire, PV 3646 1600 / 3646 1601
Esperanza Building, 87,Rue Grégoire. PV 3774 6729
17, Rue Pinchinat, PV 3449 5943
Fusion Furcy. après Kenscoff 3458 5968 / 2510 9870
Look-Nun's Thai Restaurant
The View
Thai Cuisine 35, Rue Villate, PV 3724 1661
Magdoos
Mediterranean Cuisine #30 Rue Ogé P.V 3821-2121 / 3733-2525
Mikaz
Fusion Complexe Le Belvédère. Angle des Rues Chavannes & Clerveaux. PV 3632 7706
Tiffany Restaurant
Haitian Cuisine Boulevard Harry Truman. Bicentenaire
Fusion 56, Rue Geffrard, PV 2256 2659 / 3727 5951
5 Coins
Mozaik
Celeri Rouge
Fusion 89, Rue Grégoire, PV 3702 3939
20, Rue Panaméricaine, PV 2511 1044 / 2257 0277 88, Rue Panaméricaine, PV 3719 9670 / 3587 9670
Mr. Grill Steak House Fusion 39, Rue Rigaud. PV 3620 4954 / 3620 4844
Muncheez
Fast Food 2. Rue Rebecca, PV 3713 1393 / 2942 1392
O Brasileiro Social Club
103, Rue Louverture, PV 3813 1050
44 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
www.magichaiti.com
travel companion
Hôtel du Village
(Port Salut) portsaluthotelduvillage@yahoo.fr +509 3713- 9035
Auberge du Rayon Vert
Côte Atlantique Hostellerie du Roi Christophe ATH - (Cap Haitien)
hotroi24@yahoo.com 3 687 8915
Résidence Royale
(Cap Haitien) golfromes@hotmail.com +509 3602-6676 2942- 0540 / 2813- 7959
Hôtel Mont Joli-ATH
(Cap Haitien) hotelmontjoli@gmail.com +509 3943-1110 / 2262-0300
Auberge du Picolet
(Cap Haitien) auberge.picolet@gmail.com + 509 2945- 5595 3438-6357
Hôtel Beaux Rivages
(Cap Haitien) beaurivagehotel@yahoo.fr +509 2262-3114 / 3682-5583
Cormier Plage-ATH cormier@hughes.net +509 3702-0210 3804- 6673 / 3556- 1549
Côte Caraïbe Cap Lamandou- ATH
Jacmel +509 2941-4000 +509 3720-1892 3920-9135 / 3720-1436 caplamandouhotel@yahoo.fr
Hôtel Villa Ban Yen
(Petit-Goâve-Vallue) absept60@yahoo.fr +509 3420-2091 / 3941-2091
Auberge du Mont Saint Jean
(Vallée de Jacmel) aubergesaintjean@yahoo.com +509 3702-0510 3707-0605 / 3401-1789
L’Amitié Guest House :
Ti Mouillage, Cayes Jacmel (509) 2942-7156 / 3417-7582
Hotel Florita
Located in Jacmel +509 3785-5154 2288-2806 / 3905- 1732 hôtelflorita@yahoo.fr
Centre Hotel l'Ermitage de Pandiassou
(Hinche) 3472 -5934 / 3474-1599 3741-8753 lermitagedepandiassou@yahoo. com
Hotel Maguana (Hinche) 2277-0528
Wozo Plaza
(Mirebalais) 3455-7730/ 2942-1256 wozoplazahotel@yahoo.fr
Dan’s creek
(Port Salut) danscreekhotel@gmail.com www.danscreekhotel.com +509 3614-8143 / 3664- 0404
Relais du Boucanier
(Port Salut) lerelaisduboucanier@hotmail.com www.leboukanier.com +509 3558- 1806 / 3720-1144 3702- 1066 / 3554-1806
Auberge du canal d’Avezac Levy (Camp Perrin) +509 3739-2800
Le Recul
(Camp Perrin) valnuma@yahoo.fr +509 3454-0027 / 3727-3589
Aldy Hôtel- ATH
(Aquin) nancyecomeau@yahoo.fr +509 3458-2566 / 3741-0532
Abakabay
(Ile a Vache) abakabay@hotmail.com +509 3721-3691 / 3683- 6253 www.abakabay.com
Port Morgan
(Ile a Vache) portmorgan@hughes.net, www. port-morgan.com +509 3921-0000 3922-0001 / 3663-5154
Manolo Inn
(Petite Rivière de Nippes) lemanoloinn@mac.com +509 3461-7108 3768-2059 / 3752- 3838 3727- 0201
Port-au-Prince Coconut Villa-ATH
3, Rue Berthold, Delmas 19 3 179 3752 / 2 510 4901 3 556 1549 coconutvilla19@aol.com
El Rancho-ATH
5, rue Jose Marti, Avenue des Hôtels, PV 2 944 0707
Habitation Hatt-ATH
+ 509 2510-2635 / 2940-0135 sachasaieh@hotmail.com,
Ibo Lélé-ATH
elsabaussan@yahoo.com, jvinchy@yahoo.fr +509 2514- 0166 2940- 8503 / 2940- 8504
Ideal Villa
6 Delmas 53, Rte de Delmas
Karibe Hôtel-ATH
info@karibehotel.com 2812- 7000 3701-1138 / 3701- 1140 www.karibehotel.com
(Marigot- Jacmel) lacollineenchantee@gmail.com +509 3703-0448 / 3701-96 97 (Cyvadier- Jacmel) hotelcyvadier@hughes.net +509 3844-8264 3482-2585 / 3844- 8265
+509 3756- 5212 3932-5810 ouangabay@hotmail.com
(Port Salut) aubergedurayonvert@yahoo.fr www.aubergedurayonvert.com +509 3713-9035 / 3779- 1728
La Colline Enchantée
Cyvadier Plage
Ouanga Bay
Côte des Arcadins Kaliko-ATH
kalikobeachclub@hotmail.com +509 2940 4609 / 4640 2223
Wahoo Bay-ATH
wahoo@dadesky.com +509 3735- 2536/ 3735-2831
Moulin sur Mer-ATH info@moulinsurmer.com + 509 3701- 1918 2813- 1042 / 3702- 1918
Club Indigo- ATH
contact@clubindigo.net, reservations@clubindigo.net + 509 3651-1000 3650-1000 / 3441-1000
Xaragua Hôtel- ATH
lexaraguahotel@yahoo.fr +509 2510-9559 / 3795- 5983
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 45
travel companion Kinam Hôtel-ATH
info@hotelkinam.com , reservation@hotelkinam.com +509 2944- 6000 / 2945- 6000 /2945- 6001 / 2511- 4400 ww.hotelkinam.com
La Réserve Guest House-ATH
+509 3452-3065 / 3510- 5026 3510- 4678 / 3940- 0182
Le Montcel-ATH
(Kenscoff- Belot) montcel@aol.com/ www.montcelhaiti.com +509 3701-4777
Palms Résidence
palm.events@gmail.com +509 3706-7342 3454-0053
Prince Hôtel--ATH
princehotelha@yahoo.com +509 2517- 0597 3791- 1549/ 2944- 0422
The Inn at Villa Bambou Port-au-Prince www.villabambouhaiti.com +509 2813-1724
The Lodge--ATH
3701-1744 / 3702-7202
Furcy +509 2510 9870 3458 5968
Le Ritz-ATH
Villa Créole--ATH
Le Plaza-ATH
Villa Ban-Yen
+509 2943- 0303 apartement@hotelkinam.com catering@hotelkinam.com info@plazahaiti.com, reservations@plazahaiti.com 2940- 9800 / 3701- 9303 www.plazahaiti.com
Montana Suite Horizon-ATH Rue F. Cardozo +509 3880 6610
Art Galleries Expressions Art Gallery
55 Rue Metellus, PV 2 256-3471 / 3 558-7584 admin@expressionsgaleriedart.com www.expressionsgaleriedart.com
Festival Arts
43 Rue Magny, PV 3 551-7311 3 401-3171 festivalhaiti@yahoo.fr
Galerie Marassa
17 Rue Lamarre, PV 2 257-1967 3 702-4000 info@galeriemarassa.com www.galeriemarassa.com
Galerie Monnin
19 Rue Lamarre, PV 2 257-4430 / 3 680-3240 galeriemonnin@galeriemonnin. com www.galeriemonnin.com
Galerie Nader
50 Rue Grégoire, PV 2 257-0855 3 709-0222 galerienader@hotmail.com www.galerienader.com
46 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
+509 2941- 1570 / 2941- 1571 2941- 0965 / 2941- 1040 villacreol@aol.com Value (between Grand Goave & Petit Goave) +509 3420-2091/2941-2091 hotelvillabanyen@yahoo.com
Visa Lodge-ATH
services@visalodge.com +509 2813- 0777 / 2510- 3424 www.visalodge.com
L’Atellier Boutique Fondation Theard Fermathe 59 2 513-9874
Les Ateliers Jerôme
68 Angle des Rues Rebecca & Lamarre, PV 2 513-5362 / 3 705-6825 lesateliersjerome@yahoo.fr www.lesateliersjerome.com
Receptive Operators Agence Citadelle American Express Travel - ATH info@agencecitadelle.com +509 2940 5900 / 3445 5900 www.agencecitadelle.com
Uniglobe - ATH
uniglobe@haine.net +509 2941 0742
Voyages Lumière - ATH
voyageslumierehaiti@gmail.com + 509 3607 1321 www.voyageslumiere.com
Voyages Plus Cap-ATH vpcap1@gmail.com +509 3443 0823 / 2940 0484
Car Rental Avis
20, Rue Mais Gaté, Route de lAéroport + 509 2229 6399/ 2941 5555
Budget Rent-a-Car
Corner Rue Léonard & Route de l’Aéroport + 509 2813 1094 / 3856 4988
Dollar Rent-a-Car
Airlines Aerolineas Mas
+ 509 3704 4560 www.aerolineasmas.com
Air Caraïbes - ATH +509 2813 1037 www.aircaraibes.com
Air Canada
+509 2810 5857 www.aircanada.com
Blvd, Toussaint Louverture, Route de l’Aéroport + 509 2813 1800 / 3724 0950
Air France - ATH
Europcar
American Airlines
13, Blvd Jean-Jacques Dessalines, PAP + 509 2518 5555 / 2518 5556
Hertz
Route de l’Aéroport + 509 3779 0700 / 2816 0700
Secom
564 Route de Delmas + 509 2942 2940 / 2942 2941
+ 509 3115 5000 www.airfrance.com +509 2229 6000 www.aa.com
Continental Airlines www.continental.com
Copa Air
+509 2940 2326 29402327 www.copaair.com
Delta Airlines- ATH
+509 2943 3582/2816 1666
Insel Air International- ATH +509 2813 0403 www.fly-inselair.com
SALSA d’Haiti
Toussaint Louverture Int’l airport +509-2813-1222
Spirit Airlines
+ 509 2940 4421 / 2940 4422 www.spirit.com
Tortugair
+ 509 2812 8000
Turks & Caicos Airways www.airturksandcaicos.com
Transborder Bus Lines
Capital Coach Lines
info@capitalcoachline.com +509 2 512 5989 / 3 455 1777
Caribe Tours
caribetours@gmail.com +509 2 257 9379 /3 785 1946
Terra Bus
chatour@hotmail.com
Airport Shuttle Service Airport Express + 509 3445 5902
Pharmacies Obonsoins
107, Rue Loverture, PV + 509 2512 5260 3800 3737
Pharmacie du Boulevard
1, Corner Blvd. du 15 October & Rue D. Lespinasse, PAP + 509 3459 6553 3808 9050
Pharmaximum 12, Rue Ogé, PV + 509 2816 0116
We are also available online
www.magichaiti.com
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 47
general info PASSPORT & VISA
CREDIT CARDS
No visa is required for stays less than 90 days. A valid Passport is mandatory. Visa required only for citizens of Colombia, Panama, Dominican Republic & Cuba.
Visa, MasterCard & American Express accepted in most tourist establishments. Cash Advance is available in some banks and ATMs.
ELECTRICITY 110 V, 60 cycles, American outlets
CURRENCY The national currency is the Gourde (ISO Code: HTG) The U.S. dollar is accepted everywhere. Currency exchange is available in many banks or hotel front desks. The current rate is around USD1.00 for HTG 41.00 It is advised to convert your home currency into USD before leaving since the local rate of conversion is not always advantageous.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Public transportation is not very well organized and is part of the folklore. Private taxis as well as car rentals (sedans and 4x4s) are available from various agencies. Local incoming travel agencies can also arrange cars & minibuses with drivers & guides for transfers and excursions.
INTERNET ACCESS Major hotels offer Internet access Wi-Fi in public areas & in rooms. Cyber Cafes & Hotspots are available everywhere.
48 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011
TELEPHONES Country code for Ha誰ti: 509 Local numbers increased to 8 digits. The first digit indicates whether it is a fixed phone (2) or a mobile phone (3). The three mobile phone carriers have booths at the airport.
MEDICAL CARE The hotels have a list of private doctors available for emergencies. Private hospitals offer better service than public ones. Air ambulances may be required for cases requiring transportation to facilities in the region. Several drugstores and pharmacies are available.
LOCAL AIR TRANSPORT Several local airlines offer regular flights with aircrafts of up to 19 seats to the following cities: Cap Haitien, Jeremie, Les Cayes, and Port de Paix. Aircrafts and helicopters for air taxi/charter services can also be organized to various other areas of the country.
BANKS Local & international banks have an extensive urban coverage. A limited number of ATMs is available.
presents
Talk FREE all weekend. Top upFREE startingall at 600 Gdes. Talk weekend. Top up starting at 600 Gdes.
CHANGE TO THE MOST RELIABLE NETWORK WWW.VOILA.HT
CHANGE TO THE MOST RELIABLE NETWORK WWW.VOILA.HT
Nou se Ayiti
Nou se Ayiti
DECEMBER 2011 MAGIC HAITI 3
4 MAGIC HAITI DECEMBER 2011