The culture of Haiti is rich. Haiti is famous for its cuisine, music, painting and sculpture. French as well as African elements characterize the culture of Haiti. Besides this, Haiti culture is also influenced by the Spanish and the native Tainos. If you want to go for a Haiti Tour, you are sure to learn about the country's culture.
You can learn a lot about the culture of Haiti through its music, cuisine and religion.
Religion of Haiti
The official state religion is Roman Catholicism. Around 80-85 % of the population of Haiti follows this religion, while 15-20% are followers of the Protestant faith. There are several Roman Catholics here, who are also followers of Vodou. The Vodou of Haiti is quite similar to other Afro-based faiths like Candomble, which is practiced in Brazil, Santeria which is followed in Puerto Rico and Cuba, Espiritismo which is practiced in Dominican Republic and Obeah which is followed in Jamaica.
Music of Haiti
Music of the land characterizes the culture of Haiti. Kompa is the music of Haiti which is vibrant and it is a genre which is quite similar to the music of Cuba. However, it reminds one of the genre of jazz. This genre of music, Kompa involves use of the instruments like modern guitars, African drumming and saxophones. The lyrics are sung in Haitian Creole. Merengue form of music which belongs to Dominican Republic, is also popular in Haiti.
The other genres of music which are popular in Haiti are:
- Rasin
- Kadans
- Salsa music
- Trinidadian Soca
- Zouk: This is a combination of music from the French Antilles and kompa.
- Rara
Some of the famous musicians of Haiti are T-Vice, Bonga, Zenglen, NuLook, Carimi, Djakout Mizik and K-dans. These performers perform in Quebec and the United States. One of the legends of Kompa music is Sweet Micky. Wyclef Jean is the Haitian-born rapper who is world famous and belongs to the band, Black Eyed Peas.
Cuisine of Haiti
The cuisine of Haiti is largely influenced by French cuisine, especially by its methods of preparation and ingredients. Staples which have found their origin in Taino and Africa, also influence Haiti cuisine. Some of these staples are maize or mayi, yam and cassava or kasav. Even though the cuisine of Haiti is unique, it shares many features with the Latin American delicacies. Cuisine is part of the culture of Haiti. So, if you are planning for a Haiti tour, make sure to visit the restaurants to taste Haiti's delicacies.
So, if you want to know more about the culture of Haiti, you can visit this country on your next vacation.
Online information on Culture of Haiti is provided by travel.mapsofworld.
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