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Many cruise ships stop in Labadee, a holiday hot destination in Haiti, where travelers go for an adventure. Here's what you need to know about personal safety in Labadee.
Photo © Getty Images/romrodinka
Several governments, including the US and UK, are warning their citizens not to travel to Haiti due to continuing civil unrest, violence, kidnapping and a high risk to personal security. Be aware that traveling to a "do not travel" destination may impact your travel insurance cover, and/or your ability to travel.
Labadee is a private resort on Haiti's north coast, and really isn't like the rest of Haiti. It's leased by Royal Caribbean International for its cruise ships only, and has a lower level of crime compared to the rest of the nation.
Exercise common sense
Like anywhere else, always keep your belongings out of sight and on you at all times to avoid petty theft. Try to avoid being flashy with clothing and jewelry, and keep your cameras and phones hidden from the public.
Although Labadee is more safe than the rest of Haiti, it doesn't mean you should tempt anyone around you. Avoid walking dark streets at night, stay in groups, don't get too intoxicated, and keep a low profile while walking around in public.
Beach safety in Labadee
The beaches of Labadee are pretty indeed. The areas closest to the dock tend to become crowded very quickly. There are shuttles that will take you a little further away to beaches which are equally as nice.
Labadee even has lifeguards watching the designated swimming areas, a nice precaution if you're concerned about your swimming abilities.
Snorkeling is also available, but is hampered somewhat by the resort's insistence on people using personal floation devices which make it tricky to dive under the water if you choose to do so.
The Atlantic side is a little more difficult for swimming due to sharp coral, undertows and strong winds occurring more often than not.
While not really much of a danger, travelers who choose to use the "Dragon's Breath" zip line would be well advised to follow all of the instructions to prevent being stranded in the middle of the bay in need of assistance.
There's also a roller-coaster ride from the hill-top to the beach which is more scenic than thrilling.
Aggressive haggling from street vendors
Haitian arts and crafts goods are available at Labadee via a fairly repetitive group of stalls offering Haitian goods of various sorts including Haitian rum. Prices are fairly standard for most cruise ports, namely incredibly overpriced, and vendors tend to be highly aggressive and will haggle.
Be careful when entering any of the buildings and make sure they're not a dead end. Haitian vendors have been known to stand in the doorway and attempt to block people from leaving until they buy something.
Don't fall for this trick though, while vendors can aggressive, Labadee is a protected resort and pointing this out will generally be enough. However, it is always easier to just avoid problems in the first place, so check to make sure that the building you enter has at least two exits.
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