Shopping

Shopping, especially in Havana, is certainly an experience but, for the most part, if you have the money to spend, you can find what you need or something close to it. Despite the embargoes, many brand names are still available throughout the city, but the best-stocked supermarkets and pharmacies are in the Miramar district where all the diplomats do their shopping.

There are open-air food and flea markets throughout Havana, like the one on Tacon Avenue just outside Plaza de la Cathedral. In these markets, anything from art and fresh fruit to clothing and jewelry can be found. For modern clothes, one might try shops at large hotels like Havana Libre and Melia Cohiba. There aren't many big shopping malls, certainly none like those found in North America. However, a modern-day, Havana-based shopping mall opened in 2009. It's called "Trasval."