Rumor has it, since 1988 to be precise, that one day the Seine through Paris will be made swimmable. Before you slip on your swimsuit though, you’ll need stay patient as it is not expected to happen before 2024. Until then, why not head to the newly cleaned and refilled Canal Saint Martin or one of La Villette Basin’s three outdoor pools to show off your freestyle, breaststroke or butterfly? Not forgetting all the watersports you can try at La Villette, including kayak, windsurfing and rowing.

Elsewhere, why not head to New York or London where cross-city kayaking adventures are available on the Hudson and Thames?

New York: www.tapovan.com
London http://londonkayakcompany.com
Paris: La Villette, 1pm – 8pm daily.