Caracas edges back to life

A woman arriving at the mausoleum of former president Chavez in the 23 de Enero neighbourhood in Caracas. His portraits once dominated public spaces, but today, they are largely confined to the old city centre and loyalist strongholds. — AFP

AT the 360 rooftop bar in the heart of Caracas, every table is taken – even though a round of drinks can cost more than several months of base wages for many Venezuelans.

On a recent evening, 19-year-old Veronica Sanguino, who works at a fish market, says she saved for weeks to afford a night out at the open-air lounge.