Nightlife

The Bar La Marquesina, just off the Teatro La Caridad, is a good bar, and it's open 24 hours daily. It usually draws a mix of college students, locals, and tourists. There's often a small group playing. With an artsy bohemian vibe, Club Mejunje, Calle Marta Abreu 12 (tel. 42/28-2572), is probably my favorite spot, featuring regular concerts, poetry readings, gay night on Saturday, and theater pieces put on in their brick-walled, open-air courtyard. Cover CUC$2 (US$2.15/£1.10).

Bar Club Boulevard, Independencia 225, between Maceo and Unión (tel. 42/21-6236), is the most upscale joint in Santa Clara (closed Mon). This Cubanacán property features live music, the occasional cabaret show, and a popular dance club.