The number of salsa schools in the Netherlands has grown enormously in recent years. From Amsterdam to Maastricht, from small community groups to large dance studios — you can take salsa classes virtually everywhere nowadays. But how do you know which school is truly right for you? In this article, we share five criteria to consider, common mistakes to avoid, and what makes Cubania different.
5 criteria for choosing a salsa school
1. Authenticity of the style
Not all salsa is the same. Some schools mix salsa with bachata, kizomba, or other dances without clear distinction. That's fine if you want to try a bit of everything, but if you truly want to learn salsa, choose a school that specialises in one style and teaches it thoroughly.
Ask yourself:- Is it clearly explained which style is being taught?
- Does the school have roots in the culture behind the dance?
- Is there attention to musicality, not just the steps?
2. Experience and background of the teacher
The teacher makes or breaks your dance experience. A good salsa teacher combines technical knowledge with cultural background and teaching skills.
What to look for:- How many years of experience does the teacher have?
- Where did they learn to dance?
- Can they both explain and demonstrate?
- Is there personal attention during class?
3. Atmosphere and community
Salsa is a social dance. The atmosphere in class and the community around the school are just as important as the technique. You want to feel welcome, whether you come alone or with a group.
Signs of a good atmosphere:- People chat and laugh before and after class
- Social events are organised (socials, parties, trips)
- New students are actively welcomed
- There's diversity in age, background, and level
4. Location and accessibility
Practical but crucial: if the school is far away or hard to reach, you'll stay home on a rainy Tuesday evening.
Cubania locations:| City | Address | Class days |
|---|---|---|
| Den Bosch | Huis73, Hinthamerstraat 74 | Monday, Wednesday, Thursday |
| The Hague | Sportcentrum De Blinkerd, Seinpoststraat 150 | Tuesday, Friday |
5. Trial class and entry moment
A good school always offers the option of a trial class. This way you can feel the atmosphere, meet the teacher, and see if it clicks.
At Cubania, trial classes during open days are always free and no-strings-attached. Can't make those days? For just €15 you can enjoy a trial class and start at any time of the year.
Red flags
- Groups that are too large — If there are 40+ people and barely any space
- No structure — Each class feels random with no progression
- No attention to music — Just counting steps without explaining what you hear
- Unwelcoming atmosphere — Not feeling welcome as a beginner
- Unclear communication — No website, no schedules, no clear pricing
What makes Cubania different?
Cuban roots
Eddy Alfonso brought Casino directly from Havana to the Netherlands. Pure Cuban dance, passed on the way it should be.Over 20 years of experience
Cubania has been around for more than two decades, with 4,550+ trained students.Two locations
With venues in Den Bosch (Huis73, Hinthamerstraat 74) and The Hague (Sportcentrum De Blinkerd, Seinpoststraat 150).Specialists in Cuban salsa
We don't do a little bit of everything. We're specialists in Cuban salsa — from absolute beginner to advanced.Community-driven
Our students come for the classes but stay for the community: socials, Rueda nights, trips, and good vibes.Try it
The best way to discover if a school is right for you is to simply go. At Cubania, you can book a free trial class — no strings attached.
Book your free trial at cubania.nl and discover why 4,550+ people came before you.
