A potential health problem for program participants is drinking water from the tap. The program component in Havana takes the participants to three large sections of the city, Old Havana, Vedado and Miramar. These three areas of the city are considered to be safe. In particular, Old Havana with its old colonial architecture attracts a lot of foreigners and the Cuban government has made an extra effort to maintain this area free from crime and prostitution. Vedado is mostly an area of homes, some hotels, restaurants and small businesses.
Participants can walk around without attracting much attention.
The exclusive area of Miramar is filled with mansions that are now housed with foreign embassies, international companies doing business in Cuba and some government agencies. Streets are relatively quiet in all these areas. Pan handling is very uncommon in these areas of the city. During orientation, program participants learn of ways to ensure their own personal safety in Cuba. Being careful with purse, back pack and other possessions, blending into the crowd through the appropriate dress and demeanor and not being unduly friendly to strangers are all strategies that can help to ensure participant's personal safety.