Only miles from the tip of Florida and ideally placed in the exotic playground of the Caribbean, this island nation is a true paradox. On the one hand, Haiti is endowed with a unique history. It is the second nation in the New World to gain independence from the colonial powers in 1804 and the first to abolish slavery. On the other hand, it has witnessed years of political strife and economic disparity since its bold beginnings.

Despite its past, however, Haiti has managed to maintain its cultural richness and diversity and is now on the road to recovery. The country is without a doubt an untapped gem for the traveler wishing to venture off the beaten path. Unlike its more touristy neighbors, artistic expression is Haiti’s chief export–nearly 90 percent of all art produced in the Caribbean originates in Haiti.  This is a testament to the Haitian people's creativity as a means of confronting adversity and is also well evidenced in the food, the music, and the living canvas that is made of every inch of space. Haiti’s many forms of expression are a direct link to its African, Colonial, and American past, with influences from the many cultures that have reached its shores.

Haiti is also blessed with great natural beauty, being home to Pic la Selle, the fourth highest peak in the Caribbean, and Pic Macaya, which hosts one of the last remaining virgin cloud forests in the world.  Recent hurricanes, deforestation and human action engendered by economic disparity threaten this natural beauty and as well as access to clean water and food for many rural families.

As a result, Beyond Travel has partnered with several community based organizations to promote environmental protection and recovery. In 2010, BT will partner with Gwoupman Plante Lakil Tigwav (GPLT) in the Petit-Goave Region of Southern Haiti. GPLT is a grassroots network of famers which provides technical assistance to peasant farmers, including the distribution of seedlings and the dissemination of information on sustainable farming. Alongside its work with peasant farmers, GPLT also promotes HIV/AIDS prevention, entrepreneurship for women, and youth empowerment through education campaigns, small grants and scholarships for needy families.

Upon arrival Global Action and Awareness volunteers, will be greeted by host families and will begin working on various projects with GPLT. On off days and break periods, participants will explore the hidden treasures of Haiti, which may include a climb to Pic la Selle, a horseback ride to the blue lagoons of Basin Bleu, a lazy day on the beaches of Ile a Vache, a foray into Port-au-Prince’s art scene or a cold soda on top of centuries old fortress-the list goes on!

Join Beyond Travel in Haiti in 2010 and do more with us on this exciting adventure.

Program Dates

• March 12-26 FULL
• May 7-20
• June 4-17 NEW DATES
• September 17-30 NEW DATES
• October 4-28,
• December 29, 2010 - January 12, 2011

Program Fee $2283

Single Supplement $500

Fee Includes

• Administrative Fee (Staff, Materials, Community Grant)
• Activities
• Lodging
• Meals (Breakfast and Dinner)
• Airport Transfer
• In country Transportation