Whether you fancy yourself as being the lord of the dance or in possession of two left feet, dance retreats are a great way to boost your mental and physical health while having a blast at the same time. Dance retreats have become increasingly popular in recent years as people seek new ways to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. These retreats offer a unique opportunity to explore the art of dance in an exotic location while learning new skills and meeting like-minded individuals. Whether you're looking to tango the night away or flamenco your way to fitness, there's a dance retreat for everyone...
Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is known as the home of the tango. This sensual and passionate dance originated in the late 19th century along the border between Argentina and Uruguay. It has since become a cultural symbol of Argentina, and the city is filled with tango clubs, or "milongas," where locals and tourists alike can dance the night away.
For those looking to improve their tango skills and well-being, Buenos Aires offers numerous dance retreats and programs. Tango lessons are often taught by professional dancers who provide personalized instruction and guidance. In addition to dancing, participants can enjoy live music performances, attend cultural events, and explore the vibrant city's landmarks.
Bali, Indonesia’s "Island of the Gods," is a beautiful destination that boasts a rich culture of dance and music. Balinese dances are often accompanied by traditional gamelan music and are characterized by intricate hand and body movements, as well as colorful costumes and makeup.
For those looking to experience Balinese dance first-hand, Bali offers a range of dance retreats and programs. These programs often include daily dance classes taught by professional dancers as well as cultural activities such as temple visits and traditional music performances.
In addition to traditional Balinese dance, Bali’s retreats also offer Brahmani Sacred Dance, pole dancing, and fusion belly dance lessons. Visitors can also explore the island's temples and historic sites when not strutting their stuff. With Hindu temples, such as the iconic Tanah Lot Temple and the ancient Tirta Empul water temple, hikeable volcanoes, and superb beaches, there’s never a dull moment in Bali.
The Mediterranean country of Greece is steeped in history and mythology, and dance is an integral part of its cultural identity. Traditional Greek dances are often performed at celebrations and ceremonies and are characterized by their lively, upbeat rhythms and intricate footwork.
There are a number of dance and movement retreats, which often combine dance with yoga, available throughout the country, and they are the perfect place to learn more about traditional Greek dancing. These programs often offer daily dance classes taught by experienced instructors, as well as opportunities to learn about the history and cultural significance of Greek dance, whilst enjoying the calm surrounds of an idyllic Greek island.
The Aloha State is a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking a unique cultural experience surrounded by volcanoes and the ocean. The hula dance plays a significant part in Hawaiian culture, and it is said to be a way of telling stories and preserving local history. Hula is often performed at celebrations and events, and the dance requires both physical and mental discipline, making it a great way to stay fit and healthy.
There are many dance retreats and programs in Hawaii that focus on the hula dance. These retreats typically include dance classes, cultural activities, and opportunities to explore the island's natural beauty. Some retreats even offer the chance to learn from traditional Hawaiian teachers and elders who have passed down the hula traditions from generation to generation.
Aside from hula dance retreats, Hawaii also offers ecstatic dance retreats for those who are looking for a more modern take on dance. Ecstatic dance is a form of free-form movement that allows participants to express themselves through dance without any specific choreography or technique. These retreats often take place in beautiful natural settings, such as the beach or in the mountains, allowing participants to connect with nature while they dance their hearts out.
The vibrant country of Mexico boasts a rich history of dance and music. Mexican dance is a fusion of various indigenous and European traditions, resulting in a unique and colorful art form that is an essential part of Mexican culture. Mexican dance styles include salsa and merengue, and improving your technique under the watchful eye of experienced local instructors is a great way to take your dancing up a notch.
There are many dance retreats and programs in Mexico that offer the opportunity to learn about and immerse oneself in the country's joyous dance culture. Some retreats focus on specific dance styles, while others offer a broader experience of Mexican dance and music. These retreats often take place in beautiful locations, such as beach resorts or colonial towns, providing participants with an opportunity to explore Mexico's natural beauty and history as they dance their way to mental and physical well-being.
In 2010, UNESCO declared flamenco dancing as one of the world’s Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Flamenco expresses deep emotions and tells stories through dance, song, and guitar. It originated in the Andalusian region of southern Spain and has since become a symbol of Spanish culture.
There are many dance retreats and programs available throughout Spain, both in the cities and on the Mediterranean islands. Seville, the birthplace of flamenco, is one popular destination for flamenco enthusiasts, with many schools and studios offering classes and retreats for all levels, from beginners to more advanced dancers.
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee of dance retreats or looking to attend your first one, you can be sure of an immersive experience that will build confidence, increase muscle strength, especially in the core, arms, and legs, and improve cognitive function. Not only is dancing your heart out a great all-round workout, it’s also endless fun.
From traditional Brahmani sacred dance, tango, and flamenco retreats to more modern, free-flowing ecstatic dance retreats, somewhere in the world there is the perfect dance retreat for you. Drop us a message if you need