Haitians Who Blog visits Cap-Haïtien, Haiti's hidden gem for Diner En Blanc Cap-Haïtien 2022
While many people focus on the political turmoil that rattles the capital of Haiti, this summer Modernique and Co changed the perspective of Haiti for Black expats by bringing the world phenomenon event, Diner En Blanc, to the Paris of the Antilles, Cap-Haïtien. It’s no sure doubt the exclusive end of summer event brings opportunities for friend getaways, group trips, solo travel, and couple getaways. This yearly pop-up brings guest to the “it” destination of the Caribbean. Here, they can experience cuisines crafted by renowned chefs, the glistening blue shores of local beaches, the array of excursions, and the rich history of the city.
Gastronomy:
In our time at Diner En Blanc, the gastronomic delights include a mixture of flavorful dishes that will tickle your palates. As guests, we could bring our own food, however, conveniently Diner En Blanc offered food on site. Reflecting the tradition and culture of Haiti tied into each bite, Haiti’s gourmet chefs and renowned restaurants craft Diner En Blanc food options. Trailblazing chefs in Haiti and comfort food encompassing delights from different cultures by local restaurants crafted the cuisine options. Wine options included locally sourced wines from chardonnay to rose. There were some struggles with this process where we did not get our food at the dinner. However, this was a reminder that there are still changes needed to improve customer service for Haiti-based businesses. We were happy that the organizers of Diner En Blanc, Haiti, are going to make this their number one improvement for Diner en Blanc Haiti, 2023.
Beaches:
We made our way to the glistening, blue beaches of Amiga Island in private transport to the island. We grabbed our swimwear, basked under the sun, jet skied through the delicate blue hues of Labadee, and played water sports like beach volleyball. With a special guest DJ and seafood grilled by locals, we left the beach overjoyed by the city's hospitality.
Excursions:
In one quick turn, in the city of Milot, you’ll capture the creation and destruction of Palais Sans Souci, Haiti’s historical ground that denotes the trails of slaves and the victory of the country’s ancestors. Bask in the remains of the abandoned palace during a tour guide of what I consider the Versailles of the Caribbean.
Spearheaded by Modernique and Co in collaboration with the center of Tourism in Cap Haitien. It was an impressive sight for the perfect group selfie. Exploring the history behind Henri Christophe’s reign of the north while indulging in the picturesque views of the surrounding mountainous areas. Hiking what should be the eighth wonder of the world was no easy trek. La Citadelle Laferrière is massive and is 3000 feet above sea level.
This enormous fortress perched on the peak of a mountain has us rethinking our fitness goals. Despite this uphill walk leaving us breathless, the panoramic view was worth getting our steps in. Now, we all didn’t take on the Citadelle and fortunately joined the mountain men and boys alongside our horse Toyota.
Additional excursions included a city tour where we took the streets and enjoyed the colorful agricultural delights of the former slave market, now lively street market, Marché Cluny. We mingled with the locals while enjoying street delicacies, from BBQ, fresh lambi, to Fritay (fried foods).
Additional adventures we missed out on because of timing, talk about Haitian time, included an ATV ride throughout Okap and its lush greenery.
History
San Souci and the Citadelle are awe-inspiring landmarks in Okap that enriched our worldview in the history that envelopes the city. Each excursion we experienced gave us an in-depth view of the first Black republic and the story behind their revolution. The architectural phenomenon built to serve as protection of the first King of Northern Haiti to the presence and soul of Haiti’s revolutionary ancestors. The city is crawling with history at every turn.
Given the opportunity to experience the beauty of Haiti, I have to say how the organizers of Diner En Blanc gave this Haitian-American the opportunity to truly experience Haiti.
A little background on Diner En Blanc, the world phenomenon pop-up dinner where its exclusive guest picnic the night away. Hosted in over 80 cities, the large-scale event celebrates great friendships, illustrious cuisine, in the greatest cities across the globe. This pop-up experience is the perfect destination: uncovering the delicate waters of the Caribbean and gracing the highest mountains of the Paris of the Antilles. As part of the international brand of Diner En Blanc this year, Cap-Haïtien was one of the top cities in the world to host the invite only, all-white affair.
The burning question? How do I do this next year!! To receive an invitation to the 2023 Diner En Blanc in Haiti, join the waitlist at: Haiti.dinerenblanc.com/register. Bring your own decorations, place setting, and immerse in an array of experiences. Celebrate love, friendship, and network at Diner En Blanc, Haiti!
