Why Cuban Salsa?
Let Cuba's heartbeat move you
Cuban salsa—often called Casino—radiates warmth, spontaneity, and Afro‑Cuban flair. Born in Havana’s dance halls and blending Son, Rumba, Danzón, and Cha‑Cha‑Cha, it’s as much cultural storytelling as it is footwork. Cuban salsa is not just dance—it’s a party with roots.It’s ideal if you want to feel the music through your body, connect playfully with others, and move in fluid, circular rhythms that scream authenticity.
What sets it apart? Circular motion—partners orbit each other rather than exchanging linear slots—and full-body isolations, from hips to ribcage, that make you move with soul rather than just steps. In Casino, male dancers don’t just lead—they perform. Drawing from the Afro‑Cuban Guaguancó, men flirt through movement—bold, playful, teasing—seeking to capture attention and spark chemistry with their partner. Unlike North American salsa, where “men are the picture frame and women are the picture,” in Casino the man takes center stage. He’ll spin, isolate, and shimmy—not to overshadow, but to create playful interaction, inviting the woman into a dance of witty give‑and‑take rather than strict formality.
Latin Dance Schools
My favourite schools in Gran Canaria
MG CubaDance
MG CubaDance is not just a dance school—it’s a community hub. If you're craving real Cuban flair, attention to musicality, and classes led with passion and patience, this is the place.They teach salsa cubana, bachata, kizomba, rumba, alongside Afro-Cuban folkloric dance—true cultural immersion⏤not your typical line-step studio.
Address:
Tamaraceite, C/ Miró Mainou, 13
What I like about it
Their classes blend pedagogical rigor with Caribbean warmth: correcting gently, guiding thoughtfully, and teaching with real intention.
Latinnova
This cosy and well-equipped studio pedals a broad palette of rhythms: salsa cubana (casino), line styles LA on1 & PR on2, and bachata in sensual, Dominicana, and fusion styles. Add in boogaloo, pachanga, timba, merengue, and afrorumba for flavor you won’t find at every bachata-only spot.
Address:
Las Palmas, Calle Angel Guimera, 17
What I like about it
Laser-focused on musicality, body isolations, timing, and respectful partner connection. They correct with care — never intimidation — and insist that every detail counts.
Clave y Tacón
Nestled in cool Guanarteme just a 5-minute walk from Las Canteras beach, Clave y Tacón (Calle Secretario Padilla 129) offers salsa, bachata, cha‑cha‑cha, merengue, Cuban son, timba, and rueda casino for everyone—from total beginners to seasoned dancers.
Address:
Las Palmas, Calle Secretario Padilla, 129
What I like about it
Classes taught with warm professionalism and attention to nuance. A diverse repertoire spanning Cuban and Caribbean styles within a friendly local studio.
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