Learn the Shim-Sham!
Learn the Shim-Sham!
OlyDance Goes to the Dominican republic!
Santo Domingo, Zona Colonial
December 7th-14th, 2026
🌟 Trip Overview
Join the OlyDance community for an unforgettable week in the motherland AND birth city for Bachata! The week is centered around the Santo Domingo Bachata festival that offers world class instruction, insight, and parties you cannot get anywhere else. Don't worry, there is a beach day before and after the festival.
🎶 Why the DR?
The Bachata we have available to us in the PNW is very different than its birthplace. The only way to experience bachata in it's full essence is to learn and dance in the place it was born. The more people experience it, the easier it will be to bring it home to our dance community.
What's Included
🏡 Accommodations for 7 nights private room/bathroom with bed, hot tub, pool, rooftop terrace, central location
- Quality workshops with national & international instructors.
- Introduction to Dominican culture by Los Bonitillos.
- History workshop by Casa de la Musica.
- Translator for the workshops taught in Spanish.
- Authentic parties with local Dominicans at different locations every night all around Santo Domingo
- Two LIVE concerts
- Up to 5 private lessons (valued at $375) before the trip with Sunny to set you up for success
- Includes every OlyDance Bachata class
- 7 gourmet breakfasts made by a private chef
- Two Beach days
- Transportation during key times. 17 min walk from festival to AirBnB
✈️ Travel Info
Dates: February 11–18, 2026
Location: Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, DR
Group size: 9 total
Price: $1500 for single.
Guides: Sunny and Eden
Deposit: $500 to hold your spot
(refundable until Oct 1st, 2026)
Flights: Not included. Price tracking and coordination included
Food: Gourmet breakfasts included. Lunch and dinner is not included, but will be coordinated with the group to help keep costs down. Expect $20-80 a day in drinks and food
This is a beautiful chance to grow as a group. In the months leading up to December, OlyDance will offer:
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Group meetups
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5 private lessons with Sunny
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Group Bachata classes
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Recommendations for cheap private spanish tutors and chances to practice with each other.
You’ll arrive in the DR feeling like part of a community ready to dance, explore, and grow together.
🤝 Community Connection
Frequently asked Questions
Q: What level of dancer do I need to be?
A: All levels are welcome! Whether you're new to Salsa or already dancing regularly, our classes and social experiences are designed to support and inspire everyone.
Q: Is this trip LGBTQ+ and BIPOC friendly?
A: The DR is generally considered safe for LGBTQ+, however the country does not have full rights for LGBTQ+ people. Bipoc people will feel safer and more at home than the US.
Q: What are the accommodations like?
A: Comfortable, clean, and community-oriented shared housing. You can request to room with a friend or partner. Private rooms may be available for an additional cost.
Q: Are meals included?
A: Gourmet breakfasts will be included in order for us to stay on track for our itinerary. Lunch and Dinner is not included, but will be coordinated with the group.
Q: Do I need to speak Spanish?
A: No! However, we encourage you to learn. We have recommendations for Spanish tutors online from the Dominican Republic for as low as $5 an hour!
Q: How do I pay?
A: A $500 deposit reserves your spot. The remaining balance is due by December 6th, 2026. Payment plans are available—just ask!
Q: Are flights included?
A: No, but we’ll help coordinate flights and recommend a group travel window.
Q: What if I need to cancel?
A: Your deposit is fully refundable until October 1st, 2026. After that, we will do our best to find someone to take your place if you need to cancel