This is the fourth and last post in my series about dating Latinos and how it differs from dating North Americans.
Dating Latinos, It’s Different: DANCING
Growing up in the Midwest, my dancing adventures were fairly limited. You know, a slumber party here, a house party when I got older, a couple school dances, and then a wedding sprinkled in here and there. Clubs are not huge in my hometown. The thing is, I actually like dancing, but you can usually only get North American dudes to dance with you when they have not yet gotten into your pants. Once they are your boyfriend, you’re lucky to get them on the dance floor for 3 songs at a cousin’s wedding.
Latinos love to dance.
When I moved to Argentina, dancing became a part of my weekly routine. Almost every Saturday night I was out until 5am dancing the night away with friends and strangers alike. Sometimes the guys were hitting on me, but sometimes it was generally just a good time. In Hispanic culture, both men and women love to dance, both for fun and for dating rituals.
Latinos don’t just like to dance; they are awesome at it.
Another thing that is dramatically different when it comes to North American men versus Latino men is the dance skill level. The average North American male can sway to the music and eventually get drunk enough to attempt some moves that feel cool but really aren’t that cool – but that’s about it. Latinos take dancing seriously. These boys know how to salsa, tango, perreo, grind, and whatever else you can think of. Since dancing is a huge part of their culture, they grew up dancing.
Dances such as Salsa and Tango originate from Latin culture, so most Latinos have at least a vague understanding of the steps. To this day, I will still only dance salsa with my Puerto Rican boyfriend in the privacy of our home because I am simply no match for his moves. Sure, my boyfriend loves me and would put up with me stepping on his feet, but not all Latinos would be so kind. Many of them would be embarrassed by my lack of skills because it would make them look bad as well.
So, if you plan to date a Latino, get used to high heels and fast beats. You’ve got some practice to do.
Check out these other articles on Spanish.
Featured Photo credit: Salsa Saturday @ Loring Pasta Bar by dan_clements via flickr
