Haiti, like any other Caribbean nation, has its fair share of beautiful beaches, yet its unique history is what really sets it apart.

Known as the world’s First Black Republic, it is located on an island shared with the Dominican Republic. Christened as the “Land of High Mountains” by the Taino, its original inhabitants, it is embraced by the Atlantic Ocean and is nestled within the Caribbean Sea. When Christopher Columbus lost his way and landed upon its shores on December 6, 1492, this set off a series of historical events.

Haiti became a target for European powers who squabbled over the island’s riches. Key players like the Spaniards, French and the English would all leave their footprints on the sandy shores of this nation’s history. In a bid to quench their thirst for profits, an enslavement system began. First with the indigenous people, and then capturing those who primarily came from kingdoms such as Dahomey, Kongo, Nago, Yoruba, Fon, etc., it is their combined legacy that deeply influences Haitian culture today.