While the Ministry of Tourism is increasing its efforts and actions to project a positive image of Haiti abroad, due to the proliferation of opposition protests in recent weeks, France has updated its safety tips as for French residents and travelers to Haiti.

Last minute : (updated December 1, 2014)

"The demonstations taking place repeatedly for some time in the capital and in different parts of Haiti must lead to extreme caution during travel. It is recommended to stay away from crowds.

Armed attacks at the exit of the airport in Port-au-Prince:

Faced with the upsurge of armed attacks, sometimes fatal, between the airport and their accommodation, aimed mainly travelers coming to visit their families, it is recalled that it is imperative to organize its reception by relatives or people you trust, and to minimize the transport of cash or valuables. In case of aggression, not resistance."

Security : (still in force this December 8, 2014)

"Criminal violence remains very important, especially in the two major cities, Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien. Numerous travelers, including Franco-Haitian of the diaspora from France, have been subject to armed attacks between the airport and their home in Haiti. To minimize the risk of aggression, it is imperative to ask your contacts and close to organize your reception, reduce to a minimum the transport of cash and in case of aggression not to oppose resistance.

Large Haitian cities, particularly Port-au-Prince, may be the scene of sometimes violent demonstrations. The National Police of Haiti (PNH) provides law enforcement with the support, if necessary, of the Minustah."

Recommendations :

"In general, it is still necessary for travel in the country, to exercise greater vigilance, ensuring the reception conditions, accommodation and secure transport and to strictly follow a number of rules including :

• Avoid traveling in poor neighborhoods and slums, especially as regards of the capital, in Cité Soleil, Martissant, Carrefour, Jean-Marie Vincent and Bel Air as well as near the harbor and the airport Port-au-Prince ;

• Avoid the border areas with the Dominican Republic, Turtle Island and the island of Gonâve; ;

• Renounce travel on foot, especially at night ;

• Cash withdrawals from ATMs located in public places and bank branches are to be avoided because some gangs sometimes wait for their prey at the exit of these institutions."

See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-12660-haiti-notice-haiti-travel-warning-for-us-citizens.html

HL/ HaitiLibre