Azucar Academy
Creating experiences through rhythm and a close-knit community from the heart of the Caribbean
Classes at Cariblue Yoga Shala • Cocles
Our History
Learn about our beginnings
Azucar Club and its dance academy were born from the union of two passionate souls: Aldo and Isabel, teachers and dancers committed to reviving the spirit and atmosphere of salsa, cumbia and bachata in Puerto Viejo of Limon.
It all began with a shared dream: to create a space where salsa wasn’t just a dance, but a form of body language shared with joy, a way of life that connects people in a healthy and family-like way.
Initially, as organizers of social dance events,Aldo and Isabel brought together people who were drawn to this musical genre. Later, recognizing the community’s eagerness to learn, they decided to share their knowledge and technique through structured classes.
Today, having been officially together for over a year, they have co-created what has become a landmark for Puerto Viejo and visitors from around the world: a vibrant community of more than 300 people who long for more days filled with dancing and salsa.
+300
Current Students
5
Annual Cycles
4
Progressive Levels
#1
Higher Growth
Plan for 2026
Calendar of Intensive Courses
Nuestra metodología se divide en 5 ciclos anuales de 7 semanas, diseñados para garantizar tu progreso real. Cada curso incluye 7 sesiones presenciales de 60 minutos. Sesiones personalizadas para perfeccionar tu estilo y técnica de salsa en un ambiente íntimo y exclusivo.
At the end of the program, we celebrate your progress with a graduation ceremony and official certification. You don’t need a partner to sign up—we’ll welcome you into our vibrant community.
Cycle 1
Start date: January. 13
Cycle 2
Start date: March 17
Graduation: May 3
Cycle 3
Start date: May 18
Graduation: July 7
Cycle 4
Start date: July 13
Graduation: September 8
Cycle 5
Start date: 24 de Septiembre
Graduation: 30 de Octubre
Includes: 7 clases presenciales + 7 clases virtuales + Certificado + Baile de graduación
Weekly Schedule
Classes organized by level and specialty
Monday
6:20 – Level 1
7:30 – Azucar Company
Tuesday
6:20 – Level 2
7:30 – Level 3
Wednesday
6:20 – Level 4
Friday
(Every 2 Weeks)
7:00 – 9:00
Casino wheel
Salsa Course Methodology
Students will learn the fundamentals and essential technical concepts to apply them to the biomechanics of movement, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how the body moves and expresses itself in space.
- Weight, Energy, and Fluidity
- Time, Rhythm, and Musicality
- Coordination, Cadence, and Accent
- Intention, Character, and Nuance
- Restraint and Interpretation
- Foundations, Figures, and Movement Sequences
- Rotation, Turn, and Percussion
- Function of the Feet: Pointe work and correct foot positions.
- Function of the Knees: Plié, swing, and hip release.
- Function of the Hips: Leg-torso connection and rotations.
- Function of the Torso: Lateral movement, undulation, rotation, and turning.
- Function of the Arms: Dynamic communication, indication and perception of movements, expression, and connection.
- Function of the Head: Spatial orientation and correct use of the spot (reference point).
- Connectivity of the Parts: Association and dissociation of body movements.
Lesson 1: Fundamentals of Footwork and Weight Transfer
➤ What is a step, and what is weight?
➤ Weight transfer and proper foot placement in the step.
➤ What is rhythm, and how is it counted?
➤ Coordinating steps with a partner.
➤ Individual exercises on step technique and drills for leading a partner.
Class 2: Rhythm and Direction in Partner Work
➤ The concept of rhythm in salsa and musical counting.
➤ Moving individually and as a couple without losing the rhythm.
➤ Connection as a couple: Open and closed positions (hand-holding) and how to lead.
➤ Rhythm exercises for individuals and couples.
Lesson 3: Mastering the Basics and Fluency
➤ What is a rhythm pattern, and what types are there? Counting and rhythm pattern changes.
➤ Signaling rhythm pattern changes with a partner.
➤ Footwork and rhythm in the rhythm pattern (individual and partner exercises).
➤ The concept of fluidity and how to apply it when dancing together.
Lesson 4: Rotation and Balance (The Spot)
➤ What is a turn or rotation? Footwork and maintaining balance.
➤ How to perform individual and partner rotations on the bases.
➤ The (The Spot) (reference point) and the use of the torso and arms during rotation.
➤ Practical exercises on rotation and the spot. Rotation and Balance (The Spot).
Lesson 5: Salsa in Line and Dynamic
➤ Introduction to online salsa: Basic steps and side cross-steps.
➤ Footwork and partner cues for inside and outside cross-steps.
➤ Integrating dynamics and positioning (The Spot) en pareja.
➤ Exercises for basic step dynamics.
Lesson 6: Turning Techniques (Pivot and Spring)
➤ The concept of turns and how to turn on the bases (counting and body positioning).
➤ How to clearly signal a turn to your partner.
➤ Practical exercises for individual and partner turns.
Lesson 7: Sequences and Creating Shapes
➤ Difference between a sequence and a movement pattern.
➤ Sequence creation workshop.
➤ Group activity to foster creativity on the dance floor.
Cierre y Graduación Profesional
➤ Special end-of-year class.
➤ Official graduation ceremony: A practical and theoretical demonstration of the success and professional level achieved at our school.
Our Facilities
Yoga Shala Cariblue Hotel
A unique learning experience surrounded by nature. The Yoga Shala at the Cariblue Hotel offers the perfect setting to connect with salsa in an inspiring environment.
Wooden floor ideal for dancing
Surrounded by tropical nature
Natural ventilation and an authentic Caribbean atmosphere
Nuestra community
More than 300 stories of transformation and a passion for salsa
Publicado en Google natalie seguraTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. I had a wonderful experience at Azúcar Club! Isa & Aldo are very talented, patient, and make every class fun and welcoming. The atmosphere is full of positive energy, and it’s a great place to learn salsa, bachata and improve your confidence on the dance floor. Highly recommended for anyone visiting or living in Puerto Viejo!Publicado en Google Adriana LoríaTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Si hubieran más estrellas no dudaria en ponerlas, porque está comunidad de baile del caribe es el espacio seguro para todos los bailadores que hay acá y que hacen que los que no somos muy bailadores nos sintamos con la energía y capacidad para hacerlo , así que sigan así , no cambien y que más lugares permitan tener este rico ritmo que hace que aunque no sepamos hacerlo al 💯 lo hagamos 🥳🍀Publicado en Google María SofíaTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Excelentes profesores con amplios conocimiento…súper pacientes y capaces de otrogar conocimientos para todos tipos de niveles en danzas latinas!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 El espacio es cómodo para aprender..rodeados de naturaleza, es amplio, a demás disponibles dispensadores de agua y baños!! Súper recomendado.. Incluyendo que organizan eventos de baile social en distintos bares, hoteles y espacios perfectos para bailar cualquier día de semana, en Puerto Viejo!!! Es genial !!!😍Publicado en Google Carla Mariana GhiottiTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. El ritmo y sabor del Caribe! Imperdible 🙌Publicado en Google Valeria TarabiniTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Sin dudas, azúcar club, es baile, diversión y sobre todo en un ambiente familiar!Publicado en Google rebecca ferraraTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Tomar clases con Isa y Aldo en Azúcar Club ha sido una experiencia demasiado linda. Más allá de enseñar pasos, crean un ambiente donde uno se siente cómodo, se divierte y realmente disfruta aprender. Tienen muchísima paciencia, energía y hacen que cada clase se sienta dinámica y auténtica. Se nota el amor que le ponen a lo que hacen y eso se contagia. Además, es muy especial la comunidad tan linda que están creando: un espacio donde uno se siente bienvenido, conecta con otras personas y comparte desde la alegría y las ganas de aprender. Gracias por enseñarnos a bailar, soltarnos, disfrutar el proceso y por construir algo tan bonito 💃🏼✨Publicado en Google Anthony David Navarro VillarrealTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Recomendado, buena instrucción, música y ambiente.Publicado en Google Xio GutierrezTrustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Excelente escuela de baile 🪩 💃 🕺 El ambiente es muy acogedor, sano y alegre. Los profesores tienen una paciencia increíble y transmiten una energía hermosa. Es perfecto para aprender, desconectar de la rutina y disfrutar un momento lindo.🙌✨ ¡Gracias por tanto arte!Verificado por: TrustindexLa insignia verificada de Trustindex es el símbolo universal de confianza. Solo las mejores empresas pueden obtener la insignia verificada si tienen una puntuación de revisión superior a 4.5, basada en las reseñas de clientes de los últimos 12 meses. Leer más
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the academy
Do I need a partner to sign up for salsa classes?
¡No! The instruction is one-on-one, and we switch partners frequently during class. This allows you to develop versatility, get to know the whole community, and prepare yourself to dance with anyone at social events.
What are the schedules for the four levels?
Monday:
6:20 – Level 1
7:30 – Azucar Company
Tuesday:
6:20 – Level 2
7:30 – Level 3
Wednesday:
6:20 – Level 4
Friday (Every 2 weeks):
7:00 – 9:00 Casino Wheel
Contact us for specific availability for each level.
Where exactly are the classes held?
. Azucar Academy classes are held at our main location:
Cariblue Hotel, Cocles. Yoga Shala.
Features:
Professional hardwood floor ideal for dance
Surrounded by tropical nature
Natural ventilation and an authentic Caribbean atmosphere
We also organize special classes on Caribbean beaches.



