A Rooftop Adventure in Getsemani

As the sun began its descent over the vibrant city of Cartagena, I found myself climbing the steep, narrow stairs of a residential house in the heart of Getsemani. The anticipation of what awaited at the top was palpable. I had heard whispers of a unique dance class that promised not only to teach the rhythms of Latin America but also to offer a breathtaking view of the San Felipe Fort at sunset. As someone who has spent years exploring the depths of the Amazon, the idea of dancing under the open sky, surrounded by the rich culture of Colombia, was irresistible.

Upon reaching the rooftop, I was greeted by a lush, grass-like surface that felt surprisingly comfortable underfoot. The intimate setting, with just eight participants, promised a personal and engaging experience. Our instructor, Jeff, exuded energy and warmth, immediately putting everyone at ease. His ability to break down complex dance moves into simple, digestible steps was impressive, ensuring that even the most rhythmically challenged among us could keep up.

Dancing to the Beat of Cartagena

The class began with salsa, a dance that embodies the spirit of Latin America. As we moved to the infectious beats, I couldn’t help but feel a connection to the vibrant culture that surrounded us. Jeff’s clear instructions and the occasional assistance from Gorge, our translator, made the learning process seamless. Gorge, with his self-taught English and charming demeanor, added an extra layer of authenticity to the experience.

Next, we transitioned to merengue, a dance that required partnering. As a single mother, I appreciated the inclusive nature of the class, where Jeff and Gorge stepped in to partner with those of us who came alone. The camaraderie among the group was palpable, and the shared laughter and occasional missteps only added to the fun.

Finally, we delved into champeta, a dance native to Cartagena. This solo dance allowed us to express ourselves freely, and the rooftop seemed to come alive with the energy of our movements. The class was not just about learning dance steps; it was an exploration of culture, a celebration of life, and a reminder of the joy that can be found in simple moments.

A Sunset to Remember

As the class drew to a close, we were treated to a small speech by Gorge, who shared a few local sayings and insights into the culture of Cartagena. The sun had set by this point, casting a warm glow over the city and the fort in the distance. While the sunset view was not as prominent as I had hoped, the experience of dancing under the open sky, with the city as our backdrop, was unforgettable.

Before we left, we were given a video tutorial of the dances we had learned, a thoughtful touch that allowed us to take a piece of Cartagena home with us. As I descended the stairs, I reflected on the evening. The class had been more than just a dance lesson; it was a journey into the heart of Colombian culture, a chance to connect with others, and an opportunity to experience the joy of movement in a truly unique setting.

For those who seek adventure and cultural immersion, I highly recommend this Rooftop Dance Class in Getsemani. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable experiences are found in the most unexpected places.