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Frequently Asked Questions
1) Do I need a passport? Yes. The application may be obtained and submitted in person at your nearest Passport Office, U.S. District Court, and at some U.S. Post Offices. Passports generally take 4-6 weeks for issuance (for a fee, one can expedite it). Apply as soon as possible. Bring 2 photocopies of your passport with you on your trip.
2) Do I need vaccinations? Yes. Consult your personal physician or community health department 6 weeks in advance.
3) Do I need a visa? Maybe--check with us. If you are an American citizen, you do not need a visa.
4) Is it safe? Haiti is a country with a history of political and economic turmoil. However, Haitians love to show hospitality to visitors, and north Americans are generally safe in Haiti. CCH remains in contact with knowledgeable people in Haiti, the U.S. State Department, and U.S. Embassy regarding the security situation; we take every precaution to ensure the safety of our group members. Numerous groups have visited Haiti through CCH in the past years and there have been no incidences of violence. In certain rare cases, we will postpone a trip.
5) How much luggage may I take? Personal luggage is limited to 25 lbs. Bring a small suitcase (preferably with wheels) or backpack. Medical supplies and essential mission items take precedence, so you may be asked to carry additional items with you.
6) What about laundry? All laundry is done by hand.
7) What are the accommodations like? We will be staying in CCH's Isaiah 61 House, a dorm setup with screened windows, cots, shower and bathroom facilities, internet access and ceiling fans. Towels, sheets and pillows are provided.
8) What will we eat? All meals are provided. Some are simple, others are festive. Rice and beans are the staples but items like peanut butter, honey, coke, beer and fresh fruit are available. Filtered drinking water is available, along with coffee.
9) What is the weather like? Haiti is in the tropics and is warm all year round. The average temperature only varies by five degrees from winter to summer. Late fall and spring are the rainy seasons. Bring a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater for cool nights.
10) Should I bring valuables? We don’t recommend it since visitors stand out as people who often have valuables. Cameras are an exception. Haiti has much beauty and you will want to bring extra batteries. As a courtesy, please ask people prior to taking their picture.
11) Do I need insurance? CCH provides short-term missionary insurance for international travel. This covers health and emergency medical evacuation needs.
12) What if my family needs to contact me? Your family can call several individuals in your Orientation handbook to contact us by phone in Haiti, separately from the Satellite system.
13) What is the fee for the Isaiah 61 House? For those with reservations at least 2 weeks ahead, the rate is $45 per night without transportation or $60 per night with transportation. This includes 3 meals. For those without reservations, the rate is $55 per night with or without transportation, including 3 meals.