Haiti has tossed the traditional star rating system for a much more refreshing and unique icon: the hibiscus. Haiti’s tourism ministry announced that it would begin using the country’s national flower, the hibiscus, to rate hotels across the island nation. So far, the new system has reclassified 177 tourist accommodations – almost 5,000 rooms. Out of the dozens, only five hotels – all located in or around the capital Port-au-Prince – were awarded the maximum five-out-of-five hibiscus.
If you’re planning to visit Haiti in the near future, here are those top five:
1. Karibe Convention Center
Situated halfway between Port-au-Prince and Pétion-Ville, the Karibe Hotel is only 20-minute drive from the Toussaint L’Ouverture International Airport; the center of Port-au-Prince is only 3.5 miles away. The site offers visitors a fitness center, a beautiful terrace, an outdoor pool, and a spa with massages as well as health and beauty treatments.
2. The Inn at Villa Bambou
“The Inn at Villa Bambou is a small, secluded, high end Inn that blends classic architecture with sophisticated styling and décor,” the site states. Similar to Karibe, The Inn is nestled between downtown Port-au-Prince and Pétion-Ville. The gated boutique hotel boasts decadent balconies, porches, lush gardens, a gym, and pool and hot tub. Bonuses: Complimentary Wi-Fi and pet-friendly.
3. Oasis
Nestled in the business district, Oasis by Occidental opened its doors in 2012 conveniently close to multiple area attractions, including the Church of St. Peter, Champs de Mars Square, and National Pantheon Museum. The hotel provides guests with complimentary wireless Internet access and a pretty rooftop terrace.
4. Best Western Premier
At the high-end Best Western Premier (shown in main image), lodgers are offered beach relaxation, hiking adventures, and even shopping. But perhaps the hotel’s official site sums itself up best, stating: “With its nearby locale to majestic Port-au-Prince, the all-new BEST WESTERN PREMIER Pétion-Ville offers stylish, upscale lodging with modern amenities. As the first Haitian hotel with a U.S. chain affiliation, you can trust us to ensure your comfort and safety throughout your stay.”
5. NH Haiti El Rancho
Located in the heart of Pétion-Ville, the recently renovated NH Haiti El Rancho resides nearby plenty of banks, shops, embassies, and restaurants among other hotspot attractions. Similar to some of the other hotels, there’s complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as a relaxing outdoor terrace. And if vacationers are feeling lazy, room service is amazingly available 24 hours a day.
To see the full list of the 177 hotels, click here.
