Haiti

Haiti has an image problem. Say the name and you’re likely to invoke a sad litany of coups and boat people, tinged with lurid clichés of voodoo sacrifices. As both failed state and media whipping boy, Haiti has long played the dark shadow to the bright sunlight of the rest of the Caribbean.Haiti saw the only successful slave revolution in colonial history, with the result that it clung on to its African roots more than any other Caibbean country. These roots have evolved into a wholly unique culture. The most famous result is Vodou, which informs many aspects of life, from the rhythms of Racines music to the exuberance of Haitian painting. Getting around can sometimes be a little tough, but you certainly shouldn’t believe all the scare stories.