Swimming in Havana

Pools are everywhere in Havana; even the elegant Hotel Nacional allows nonguests to use its two swimming pools for a 5-cuc fee. Although you'll see residents swimming off the Malecón, it's not recommended that you join them: the water quality is poor to poisonous. If you really want a beach, head to the Playas del Este.

The Complejo Panamericano, which is 2 km (1 mi) east of Havana on the road to Cojímar, has the city's best Olympic-size pool. You can swim here for a 5-cuc fee. Av. Monumental, Km 4.5, Villa Panamericana, Havana. 7/95-4221.