First day back in Haiti after a most uncomfortable flight from Denver yesterday. We were lucky to get out with the snow storm raging, but because of de-icing and waiting we were very late leaving, and thus late arriving in Miami where I had about 10 minutes to make the next flight. American Airlines, being devoted to our comfort as they are, gave away my reserved seat and stuck me in the middle of the back row and were most rude when I asked why my reserved seat was not available. "You were late," I was told, and I asked if they wondered why I was late since I was on a connecting flight within their system, in response to which I was told in veiled terms to take it or leave it. I'm sure their service will improve greatly once they complete their merger with US Airways!
The new terminal in Port au Prince is now open and is a gigantic improvement. In fact in my short time here I see quite a bit of improvement; the area around the airport has been cleaned up somewhat, Blvd. Toussaint Louverature had working stoplights, and the new Royal Oasis Hotel in Petionville is open and looking quite impressive. Here's hoping it's all a sign of things to come.
Here's a picture of the Satigny Inn where I'm staying...a little oasis of comfort! And a picture of our building site before it was cleared of earthquake destruction. Tomorrow we go early and start checking foundations in preparation to commence the building.
