|
|
[ Cruise Reviews ] [ Port Reviews ] [ Cruise Chat ] [ Cruise Links ] [ News ] |
|||||
![]() |
||||||
![]() |
|
|||||
|
Labadee, Hispaniola Information
Updated November, 2004 by Language and Currency Labadee, Hispaniola Port Reviews French and Creole are the official languages, but since you are on a private beach, English will be the accepted form of communication. US Currency is accepted at the marketplace and everything else is charged to your shipboard account. Labadee came through unscathed (with the exception of a few minor areas) from the 2004 hurricane season.
Labadee is on a peninsula on the north coast of Hispaniola, otherwise known as Haiti. Hispaniola was the name Christopher Columbus gave to the entire island shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Recent political unrest made Haiti an undesirable destination, but Royal Caribbean has cordoned off a remote portion of this island, and the totally safe and private compound provides guests an opportunity to experience the magnificent beauty of this region.
The powdery sand beach is surrounded by magnificent mountains and lush foliage and crystal clear water..
Royal Caribbean has made improvements and updated this island paradise to include a new water park (additional entrance fee). This island, with five different beach areas, offers more than just a beach experience, however. A number of the optional shore excursions allow a glimpse into the local culture and its rich history. This is truly a tropical island. It is hot year round, with afternoon temperatures easily rising into the 90’s.
The ship docks offshore and you will be tendered to shore.
Note: If you are on the Amiga Island snorkeling excursion, you will be transported to the destination directly from the ship.
There is a Haitian Marketplace on the grounds, where native crafts can be purchased. These local shops and artisan booths offer Haitian paintings, crafts, coffee and cognac. (Remember to barter). Be aware that all of the prices are negotiable and expect to encounter strong sales and negotiating tactics.
A large local artisan's market has also blossomed next to the Haitian market. Look for bargains on wood carvings, paintings, dolls, basketry, clothing, beads, jewelry and just about everything else you can imagine. Be prepared to bargain by offering about half of the asking price as a beginning point.
If lounging at one of the five beaches does not appeal to you, you can take a kayaking tour to a nearby Haitian fishing village, or a narrated coastal tour, snorkel at Amiga Island, enjoy parasailing or a banana boat ride.
You can hike along one of the trails that lead you to discover 16th century artifacts, play beach volleyball, or do nothing but relax in a hammock.
There is also a large jet ski marina for the rental of jet skiis by the hour, or you can take a jet ski tour of the area. What are my choices for dining and drinking?
A barbeque lunch is served at three different dining venues, which area permanent open-air buildings. Bars are conveniently positioned throughout Labadee and bartenders wander the beach offering sodas and specialty drinks.
Make sure you try a “Labaduzee”. This signature frozen drink can be purchased with or without alcohol.
Labadee, Hispaniola Port Reviews
Cheryl Boss; Snorkeling and BBQ Ask a Question About a Caribbean Port
|
|||||
![]() |
|
|||||