How to Take Salsa Lessons in Cuba

Anyone can take salsa lessons at the local dance hall, but only the truly inspired make the pilgrimage to the Mecca of salsa--Cuba. Although direct travel from the States to Cuba is still prohibited, the ardent salsa afficionado can easily book dance lessons from Hackensack and land in Havana a few days later.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Evaluate your salsa skills before arranging your trip. This will help you enroll in the most appropriate class for your level. If you don't know salsa from the macarena, take a few lessons before you go to be one step ahead when you arrive.
2. Book an "educational" excursion to Cuba through a travel agent who features salsa dancing. Several travel companies offer packages designed exclusively for those in search of salsa lessons during their visit.
3. Get to Cuba. If the U.S. government denies your educational pretext for a visa, arrive there as most Americanos do--under the radar on a short flight from Cancun, Mexico.
4. Ask your hotel concierge for the best discotheque that offers salsa lessons. Arrive early to catch a few expert tips before the crowds arrive to show off their moves.

What to Look For:

• Educational excursions
• Cancun connection
• Salsa lessons at discotheques

Tips & Warnings

• Although travel restrictions in Cuba are relaxing, virtually all visitors require a Cuban visa or tourist card, which is available through the Cuban government.
• U.S. citizens entering Cuba require permission from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.