Habitation Jouissant, located in Cap-Haitien, Haiti will join the Marriott International’s Autograph Collection Hotels portfolio after completing a major renovation in late 2017. The boutique property will incorporate the brand’s emphasis on individuality and one-of-a-kind luxury travel experiences and was chosen for its distinction as an iconic landmark in the area.
Originally built in 1959, the property was later used as a private residence by Haiti’s notable Beliard family. In 2011, it was converted into a bed and breakfast that had 13 suites as well as the popular Le Basilik restaurant and Lime Bar, where guests are handed a signature Habjo Punch welcome drink upon entry. The complete overhaul will add 87 guest rooms to the property’s already 13 suites, and will include a new presidential suite, two restaurants, two pools, a fitness center and meeting rooms when completed.
“We are thrilled to not only be a part of Cap-Haitien’s history, but we are also very proud to be part of its emergence and radiance with this new partnership,” says Fred Béliard, chairman of the Fatima Group and owner of Habitation Jouissant. “The North is a jewel. Its development, both touristic and economic, is essential to Haiti’s success. We are confident that our partnership with Marriott International is a turning point that will mark the beginning of many great endeavors for us and for our fellow members of the tourism industry in the North.”
Habitation Jouissant will feature rich and vibrant Haitian art themes, blended into the finishes and interior design of the hotel, says Patrick Beliard, president of the Fatima Group. Guests will experience local culture during scheduled events such as art exhibits, music performances, fashion shows and cooking demonstrations by guest chefs. It will also feature flexible indoor conference and event space and is ideally positioned within the area for off-property teambuilding activities such as hiking, mountain biking, water sports and tours of surrounding historical sites.
This will be the Autograph Collection’s third hotel in the Caribbean and Marriott International’s second property in Haiti, following the opening of the Marriott Port-Au-Prince Hotel earlier this year. Miami-based firm Hamed Rodriguez Architects is leading the expansion plans while International Design Concepts will spearhead the interior design strategy and renovation. Gallant Media Group will oversee Habitation Jouissant’s branding and Trust Hospitality will manage the property.
“We continue to seek out opportunities to bring leading hotel brands like Autograph Collection Hotels to Haiti in order to accommodate the impressive wave of international travelers visiting the region, specifically in Cap-Haitien,” says Tim Sheldon, president of the Caribbean and Latin America, Marriott International. “The opening of Habitation Jouissant reaffirms our commitment to the great nation of Haiti and to the global presence of Autograph Collection, one of our company’s fastest growing and most unique brands.”
