Dance Abroad

Why dancing should be on every traveller’s bucket list

You might be wondering why dancing is a bucket list activity. As a passionate dancer myself, let me tell you why!

First, to be clear, you don’t need to be an expert; this article is also for you if you feel like you have two left feet and no sense of rhythm at all.

The truth is, dancing can be a great activity to meet new people when you travel or move to a new city. There are different options for you to do this. You can sign up for dance classes in a local dance studio, for example, or find social dance parties via Facebook groups or meet up groups.

Sometimes a simple Google Search can already give you lots of tips of places to visit to add some most needed movement to your trip.

“why is this such a great activity to connect with others?”

So, why is this such a great activity to connect with others? You may wonder. When you’re learning how to dance, you instantly create a sort of connection with the other students, and it’s also an easy way to start a conversation with someone.

“…the people you meet in a dance class are probably all from the same area”

When you stumble or try to figure out the steps, you can laugh about it together and help each other get better. What might feel a bit awkward at first will actually create a bond after. It’s amazing!

Also, the people you meet in a dance class are probably all from the same area, making it easier to find new friends in your own neighbourhood.

If you’re feeling a bit nervous because you’ve never tried dancing –besides perhaps dancing in your living room–, don’t be, because we all start somewhere.

The good news is that it is also a great way to step out of your comfort zone, because dancing actually boosts your confidence and, through moving your body, you will de-stress and relax more.

When you’re having a low moment abroad – for the many reasons that could happen–, take a moment to dance your worries away! You won’t regret it. Research has actually shown that dancing lifts your mood, sharpens the mind and eases depression and anxiety.

And let me tell you a secret: everyone can do it! You don’t need to become a professional and win competitions (of course you can if you want to) to be able to enjoy it, because it’s all about moving your body and enjoying the music.

It’s a great activity to get to know more about the culture of a country as well. Every country has its own dances, styles and music. And, great news about dancing, though, is that it doesn’t matter where you are, you can literally dance everywhere!

“…I never knew that was something I could take from a trip”

Dance to travel

In my case, I have been dancing since I was young, but I discovered new styles during my travels, even though I never knew that was something I could take from a trip.

It all started when I visited the Dominican Republic at 16 years old, and I fell in love with Salsa and Bachata. Some years later, I became a dance teacher and Zumba fitness instructor and haven’t stopped teaching and dancing ever since.

“It’s a fun and easy way to stay fit and healthy while travelling”

When I dance, the music and the movements take me on a journey, even when I’m not travelling. So it’s a beautiful way to experience it even when, let’s say, Covid keeps our dreams abroad a bit grounded.

When I moved to Cambodia, I found a little Latin bar in Phnom Penh, where I started teaching salsa for beginners. It was an excellent way for expats to meet, have some fun and connect through dance.

Also, through dancing, I got the confidence to go on a solo trip to Cuba twice! I never felt alone during those trips because I went to salsa parties every day, took some classes and met many people. But also, it’s a fantastic way to learn from the locals while enjoying myself and improving my skills at the same time.

Afterwards, when I moved to Australia, one of the first things I did was searching for a place to dance salsa, so I could have some fun, even when I didn’t know anyone initially. It has really broadened my horizons and made things easier and way more exciting every time.

If by now I haven’t convinced you that you should add dancing to your travel bucket list, let me tell you that dancing has a lot of health benefits as well.

It’s a fun and easy way to stay fit and healthy while travelling and can help you improve your posture and flexibility, boost your cardio, build muscles, and, last but not least, improve your overall happiness.

Do you need some courage to give it a try? Of course! Whenever you try a new activity, it’s normal to feel a bit scared. However, don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Remind yourself that every great dancer you see on the dance floor started with their first dance steps as well.

At the end of the day, It’s all about practising, finding your own flow and getting to know your own body movements. It’s all about how it feels.

Besides that, the most important thing is to have fun! After all, when you travel, it’s all about experiencing new things and enjoying yourself along the way.

So, now you know. During your next trip or when you move somewhere new, find yourself a dance floor!