Consumer haven in a communist country

Popular plate: People queue up for the chocolate on sale at Baracoa - it hails from the shop's namesake - in the food court.

Tipple of choice: Head to one of Cuba’s only real cafes – Casa de la Café – if you’re craving a cappuccino.

This is a far cry from the barren windows of most Havana shops. Like an American shopping mall from the 80s, Plaza Carlos III is all flashing lights, fat kids and fashionistas spending their CUC with abandon. You can buy everything from furniture to footwear, with a crowded food hall on the ground floor.

Prices are low, but so are standards in most of the shops, with questionably-made clothes. Addidas and Reebok are the only international representatives, although some well-known brands are stocked in some of the better boutiques.