Holiday travel

In the days leading up to Christmas I am reminded of the story of Joseph and Mary leaving Nazareth and heading to Bethlehem in response to the census being taken by decree of the Emperor.  Recently as I was wandering the donkey trails and dirt roads of the mountains of Haiti I was contemplating Joseph trying to find transportation for Mary. Of course this story is often illustrated with Mary riding on  a donkey, being led by Joseph. Joseph would have no problem finding a donkey for the journey in Haiti today.

However, there are a few more options in 21^st century Haiti. Joseph might go down to the market and hire a “taxi” for the journey. Most of these taxis are small motorcycles (125 cc). Surprisingly, I have seen entire families of four on one of these motorcycles. Joseph and Mary would probably both be able to ride with the driver. A ride to the next town would cost about $4.

If a “taxis” wasn’t possible Joseph might have chosen a “tap tap”. “Tap taps” are often little pickup trucks that have been fitted with benches in the back. They are brightly painted and often have religious or biblical sayings on the side. The “tap taps” have a set route of about a mile or so, the fare is about 25-cents, steeper routes are a bit more.

Finally, Joseph might have friends at one of the NGOs and be able to arrange a ride in an SUV. The ride in the SUV is far from smooth and flat tires are common, but this would probably be the safest way for Mary to get to Bethlehem.

Safe travels to all this holiday season!