Lovers of swimming can talk hours about the pros and cons of swimming in pools versus in the ocean. I am not going to enter into this debate. The fact is that there is more probability that a swimmer lives close by a heated indoor pool than to a coast with warm ocean temperatures.
As a vanlifer and nomad, one of the things I look for, when stopping somewhere, is a swimming pool. Up to today, I can proudly say that I have swum in nearly 70 pools around the world (45 pools in France, 13 in Spain, 3 in Germany, 1 in Switzerland and 6 in the US). This number will continue to increase.
Each one has its specificities. From the ticket office to the locker rooms and the pool itself, I have encountered many different situations :
- Some are open all day long. Some have time slots dedicated to swimmers, families, schools etc…
- Some have lockers with keys. In others you have to bring your own padlock. The most modern ones have lockers with a centralized digital code system.
- Some have a sauna and/or hamman, bubble baths etc… ideal for relaxing after a 2,000 meters crawl!
- Some are part of a sport complex and allow you to benefit from the fitness room with the ticket entrance.
- Some have 25 meters pools, some 50. Some have both, like the Stades Nautiques of Auxerre and Pau. Usually, the 50 meters one is outdoors.
- Some have showers with a mixer to regulate the temperature of the water. In others you just push the button and never mind if the water is not warm enough… That way you don’t abuse and help to save the planet!
- …
I could make that list longer, but you’ll get bored. I am just going to end with these points :
- Some are private or semi-private. Generally more expensive, but with more amenities.
- Some are run by the city or the state. I tend to prefer these ones, not only because they are cheaper, but because, just like public libraries, I believe in the power of public pools and sports complexes to create opportunities for its citizens.
I am nomad, I can’t stop moving… But if I have to settle somewhere one day, that place will have to have a pool. And if possible, public.
My Tips :
- Always call before going. That way you avoid surprises like “Sorry we don’t take credit cards,” or “Today we are exceptionally closed because of competition!”
- Always have your swimming bag ready with all the essentials : a swimsuit (of course), a towel, a swim hat, swim goggles, flip flops, a padlock, shower gel etc…
isabelle garcia 
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