Latin Roots FAQ

Questions before you join?

Here are the most common questions about starting, joining, classes, memberships, events and visiting Latin Roots Dance Academy in Edinburgh.

Starting & joining

Where should I start?

I am a complete beginner. Where do I start?

Start with the Salsa & Bachata Beginners Course. It is a structured 4-week course designed for adults who are new to Salsa and Bachata.

You do not need previous dance experience, and you do not need to bring a partner.

When can I start if I am a beginner?

New beginner courses usually open in 4-week cycles. You can see the current start dates and available course days on the Beginners Course page.

I have danced before. Can I join a higher level?

If you already have Salsa or Bachata experience, start with an Introductory Training Session.

This takes place inside a regular Latin Roots class so we can understand your current level and recommend the right place to continue.

Do I need to bring a partner?

No. Most people come on their own. In class, we rotate partners so everyone gets to practise and meet different people.

What age group are your students?

Latin Roots is an adult academy. Our students are adults of different ages, backgrounds and experience levels. The environment is warm, structured and welcoming.

Classes

How classes work

How long is each class?

Most regular Latin Roots classes are 45 minutes. Our standard training evenings usually include both Salsa and Bachata.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move easily. You do not need special dancewear for beginner courses.

What shoes should I wear?

Wear shoes that are comfortable and secure. Avoid shoes that stick heavily to the floor or are too slippery. Many regular dancers eventually choose dance shoes, but they are not required when you are starting.

How long will it take me to learn?

It depends on how consistently you train and how much practice you get. The fastest progress usually comes from a mix of structured classes, repetition and social dancing.

The important thing is to start properly, build good foundations, and stay consistent.

Memberships

Training regularly

Are memberships right for me?

Memberships are for students who want to train regularly at the academy after their first course or introductory session.

They give you a clear training rhythm, help you stay consistent, and make it easier to keep progressing with Salsa and Bachata.

What membership options do you have?

Latin Roots has different membership options depending on how often you want to train — from a lighter rhythm to a fuller academy training option.

You can compare the current options on the Prices page.

Do memberships have a minimum commitment?

No. Latin Roots memberships do not have a minimum commitment.

Memberships renew every 4 weeks, so you can train consistently without being locked into a long contract.

Events & social dancing

Dancing outside class

Do Latin Roots run social dancing events?

Yes. Social dancing is a big part of Latin Roots. Alongside our academy training, we run events where people can dance, practise, meet others and enjoy Salsa and Bachata in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Our events are open to students, beginners, experienced dancers and people from the wider dance community. You can see upcoming dates on the Events page.

What is the Latin Roots Social?

The Latin Roots Social is our regular social dancing night — a friendly space to dance Salsa and Bachata, practise what you are learning, meet familiar faces and enjoy the music.

It is a great place for beginners to take their first steps into social dancing, and it is also open to experienced dancers who want a welcoming place to dance. Check the Events page for the next date.

What is A Bailar?

A Bailar! is our bigger Salsa and Bachata party — a fuller night of dancing, music and community. It brings together Latin Roots students, regular social dancers and people from the wider dance community.

Everyone is welcome. You do not need to be a Latin Roots member to join A Bailar! See upcoming dates and details on the Events page.

Do I need to be a member to attend events?

No. Many of our events are open to everyone — Latin Roots students, beginners, experienced dancers and people from the wider dance community.

Some student-only activities may be reserved for active academy members, but our public events will say clearly who they are for. The best place to check is the Events page.

Can beginners come to social dancing events?

Yes. Beginners are very welcome. Social dancing is one of the best ways to build confidence, hear the music more, practise simple steps and start feeling part of the dance community.

You do not need to be perfect or know lots of moves. Start with what you know, dance at your pace, and come enjoy the atmosphere. You can find the next social on the Events page.

Can experienced dancers come to Latin Roots events?

Yes. Experienced dancers are very welcome at our public events. Latin Roots has a strong academy community, and many of our regular higher-level students and experienced dancers come to our socials and parties.

That means you can expect a friendly dance floor with a good mix of levels, plenty of Salsa and Bachata, and dancers who are there to enjoy good music, good connection and a warm atmosphere.

If you are looking for the next social or party, visit the Events page.

Venue & practical details

Visiting Latin Roots

Where are classes held?

Most Latin Roots classes take place at Shanghai Club, inside Le Monde Hotel, 16a George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PF.

How do I find the entrance?

When you arrive at the front of Le Monde Hotel, take the stairs on the left-hand side of the building down to the basement entrance for Shanghai Club.

Is there parking nearby?

There is on-street parking around the area, and parking is usually free after 6:30pm. Please check local signs when you arrive.

Gift cards

Giving a course as a gift

Do you sell gift cards?

Yes. Latin Roots gift cards are available for beginner Salsa and Bachata courses.

You can view the options on the Gift Cards page.

How does a gift card work?

After purchase, the gift card code is sent to the person buying the gift card by email. They can then share the code with the person they are giving it to.

The code is used when booking through the Latin Roots Beginners Course page.

Can two people use one gift card?

No. Each gift card is for one person only. If two people want to attend together, each person needs their own gift card or course booking.

How long are gift cards valid for?

Gift cards are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase. Advance booking is required and course places are subject to availability.

Still have a question?

Send us a message and we’ll help you choose the right next step for where you are now.