Studying Spanish in Tropical Paradise?

By Elenor Q. Reynolds

Are you trying to learn another language but it is really not creating anything but frustration? Why not come to Costa Rica and take advantage of the opportunity of being completely immersed within a Spanish culture? It is a once in a life time experience, that cannot be missed!

Studying another language should not have to be a tedious, daily battle, it should be an exciting challenge! If you book today that Spanish course, then you will be securing the chance of an adventure in a country, notorious for its nature and wildlife !

Although there are numerous Spanish courses, from my own experience I would highly recommend CPI (Centro Panamericano de languages) Immersion School, if you are in search of a truly unique experience. CPI is the only Spanish school here in Costa Rica that has three different schools in three very diverse and divine locations. If you divide your studies and experiences between the schools then it can only triple the fun!

One of the schools is set in the suburbs of a town called Heredia. Students will get to experience what it is like to live and learn in a typical Costa Rican town and yet not be too far from Costa Rica's capital city; San Jose. The school is encircled by exotic gardens in which you can unwind during break time and for those who are just bursting with energy then there is a ping pong table, mini soccer pitch and basketball court.

The second campus is perched on a green mountain top between the small, Tico (Costa Rican people) town of Santa Elena and the famous Quaker village of Monteverde, however the area is best known as 'Monteverde'. The area consists of extensive cloud forests , wondrous wildlife, panoramic views and spectacular sunsets. One of the best viewing points in Monteverde is actually located right in front of the school. Imagine bringing an end to a day of Spanish classes, to work out in the mini gym and a long soak in the jacuzzi, with the picture perfect sunset!

The third campus is situated just a 5 minute stroll from one of the country's many pristine beaches called Flamingo. Although the area has a Northern American feel if you venture out in to the surroundings town; Potrero and Brasilito then you will begin to see more of the Costa Rican culture. The school offers a place to play basketball and of course the odd game of ping pong. If you get a little hot and sticky then do not fret just take a dip in the school's swimming pool! Heaven!

You can begin your Spanish program when you want and the duration of the course is a completely personal choice. The specialized Spanish programs are tailored to suit individual needs and if you decide you want to study at all three schools then the transition is nothing but a smooth and might I say 'adventurous' ride!

Once CPI has selected the right Spanish Program for you it doesn't stop there. It can arrange your accommodation. If you don't want to speak anything but Spanish then a home stay would be ideal. Nevertheless CPI also offers stay in one of its fully equipped and furnished studios, which are located close to the school.

Don't forget that apart from learning Spanish at CPI you need to make time for adventure. Take advantage of the many tours and activities and reveal Costa Rica's true beauty! It is a unique country offering a wide variety of terrain and climate suiting all needs! - 30231

About the Author:

Costa Rica is a wonderful place to travel to, filled with much splendor and magic. The author has resided for many years in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. If you ever decide to visit Monteverde make sure to check out How to get Transportation to from Monteverde.

Focus On Grammar Helps With Teaching English

By Eli Terry

Irene Schoenberg has written a series called "Focus on Grammar" that is published by Pearson Longman. It's a series of texts on English as a second language that takes you from level one through level five. She does such a great job that it's now in its third printing.

As the title implies, the books focus on the grammar aspect of understanding English. The lesson are separated into areas about different grammar subjects. In each area of the book students will be taught to read, write, speak, and listen, using exercises that support the major grammar subject. This, certainly, is added to the various grammar activities.

She deals with all facets of grammar and uses a question and answer format for her exercises. The questions begin with a simple fill-in-the-blank and then go on to get progressively more difficult. Editing written work and grammar structures is also stressed.

The grammar is not isolated but is presented at the beginning of the chapters as current events or entertainment or pop culture articles. Students will read that and then go on to answer questions based on the grammar of the reading.

For instance, one type of reading deals with the film, "It's a Wonderful Life" and the way it applies the 3rd conditional. During the text, examples for the 3rd conditional are highlighted in bold so the students can it see it clearly. The books include an audio CD for students, which is used for listening activities. Also, an interactive CD-Rom can be bought at an additional cost. These extra supplies offer more advantages to the series.

The books in this series are very usable for those wanting to learn English. But they're valuable as well to teachers because of their sheer wealth of information and practice.

They have superior explanations, examples, and activities for all of the main verb tenses, conditional sentences, prepositions, nouns, and a lot more necessary grammar subjects. If I had to pick out an ESL text curriculum, this would be first on my list.

If at all one has to find fault with this series of grammar text books it is that the books are designed for adult learners, and children might therefore find the approach too serious for their liking. However, I must stress on the fact that Focus on Grammar is a truly useful series, for the serious adult learner. It is also a great help to ESL teachers. - 30231

About the Author:

If you want to find out more about this, take a look at Rocket Spanish Review.

Extreme Costa Rica Zip Line Tours

By Elenor Q. Reynolds

Costa Rica has become increasingly popular as a vacation destination. Also on the rise in the activities list is canopy tours. With many choices available to choose from it's a thrill for both young and old. If you go home without trying your hand at zip lining, you will surely regret it.

If you are looking for extreme Costa Rica canopy adventure, there are many companies and locations to choose from. This will not only be a memorable experience, it will likely be something you want to do again. The incredible rush you feel traveling across the tree tops, a hundred plus feet off the ground, attached to a cable in a harness is an adrenaline rush of a lifetime.

There are many different tour companies to choose from for your canopy adventure, so be sure to do your research. There are many different options available in the way of the canopy adventure, so if you are looking for relaxed or extreme, it's out there. Repelling with the canopy is one popular choice and the Tarzan swing is another popular option that those adventure seekers.

When you think of canopy tours what do you think of???? Well, the canopy is a sequence of cables that are tactically constructed in various locations throughout the forest. You are harnessed to these cables with a pulley and sent zipping over the tops of the trees to platforms that await you. Each platform has a guide to assist you with the connection and send you off to the next platform.

What better way to view the upper levels of a rain Forest than by flying along harnessed to a cable gliding over the treetops. Sit back, relax and enjoy the view. I f you have questions about age restrictions, people with disabilities, weight or medical issues, check with your tour operator of choice prior to booking.

There are canopy tours located in Herradura next to Jaco on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica and offers breathtaking views of the gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Ocean. Prices are comparable among all the operators, starting around $40.00 per person for adults.

Whether you choose the eco-friendly theme park tour, the famous Original Canopy tour or a tropical park tour; we are certain you will find one to meet your needs. Horseback riding tours to your first canopy, premium full day adventure tours or just the Original Costa Rica canopy tour, it's all here. Congo Trail Canopy is a favorite of a lot of tourists because it sits between Ocotal and Flamingo beaches; suggest you check it out!

While the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Santa Elena reserve are both amazing places and depending on your choice, both are a must see. There are many trails to explore in Monteverde and Santa Elena reserve and they do have suspension bridges. Your birds-eye view for bromelias, orchids and of course the birds from their perspective.

We encourage you to make sure and have your sunscreen, bug spray and a waterproof jacket for those rainy days. Being in the Costa Rica rainforest, the weather is often unpredictable, so better to be prepared than caught without protection from the elements. There are amazing wonders awaiting you in the Cloud Forest's of Monteverde, so make sure this adventure makes your short list. - 30231

About the Author:

Costa Rica is a great place to visit, filled with much beauty and life. The writer has resided for many years in Monteverde Costa Rica. If you ever decide to visit Monteverde make sure to check out How to get Transportation to from Monteverde.

Extreme Costa Rica Zip Line Tours

By Elenor Q. Reynolds

Costa Rica canopy tours are becoming increasingly popular to many more tourists visiting Costa Rica each year. Tourists ageing in range from ninety years old to as young as six years old can experience this thrill of a lifetime. Do not leave Costa Rica wishing you had taken the chance to experience this incredible thrill.

If you are looking for extreme Costa Rica canopy adventure, there are many companies and locations to choose from. This will not only be a memorable experience, it will likely be something you want to do again. The incredible rush you feel traveling across the tree tops, a hundred plus feet off the ground, attached to a cable in a harness is an adrenaline rush of a lifetime.

Costa Rica canopy tours offer many different kinds of adrenaline rush. Whether you are zip lining through the jungle, then jumping from a 30' platform on a Tarzan swing, or just repelling down the side of a mountain, there is something for every one. There are many different canopy tour operators to choose from, depending on how much or little adventure you desire.

Canopy tours consist of a series of platforms and cables placed strategically throughout the forest. As you travel from platform to platform, you will be connected to the cable with a harness and pulley. Some tour companies offer safety connections while you are standing on the platform waiting to move to through to the next location.

You job on this amazing adventure is to just relax and enjoy the ride. The hardest part about this experience will be deciding which canopy company to choose from. Age and weight restrictions do vary slightly from company to company so it's best to check prior to booking.

A favorite location for many tourists is near Jaco beach in Herradura. This destination is located near the Gulf of Nicoya which is on the Central Pacific Coast. As you are flying through the sky you have amazing views of the Gulf of Nicoya as well as the Pacific Ocean.

Congo Trail Canopy Tour is a canopy tour located between Flamingo and Ocotal beaches. Turubari is an eco-adventure oriented theme park and a Costa Rica adventure travel company offering premium quality one day adventure Rain Forest tours. Some of the tours available are the famous Costa Rica canopy tour, the rain Forest aerial tram tour, the tropical park tour, the horseback ride tour, the sensational cable tour and much more.

If it's just a quiet laid-back walk you are looking for then you have to experience either the Monteverde or Santa Elena Reserve. Taking a nice walk on one of the few suspension bridges to get a view from above the trees of the forest bottom is spectacular! There are many spectacular sights to be seen from these incredible heights.

We encourage you to make sure and have your sunscreen, bug spray and a waterproof jacket for those rainy days. Being in the Costa Rica rainforest, the weather is often unpredictable, so better to be prepared than caught without protection from the elements. There are amazing wonders awaiting you in the Cloud Forest's of Monteverde, so make sure this adventure makes your short list. - 30231

About the Author:

Costa Rica is a wonderful place to travel to, filled with much splendor and magic. The author has lived for many years in Monteverde Costa Rica. If you ever decide to visit Monteverde make sure to check out Horseback Riding Costa Rica Monteverde.

Why Take A Ziplining Tour When You Visit Costa Rica

By Elenor Q. Reynolds

If you are asking yourself why you should take Monteverde Costa Rica canopy tours on your next holiday in Costa Rica, there is a very simple answer to this question. Simply put, a Costa Rica zip lining tour is the thrill of a lifetime and something you will not find anywhere else. If you are looking for a unique way to enjoy nature and have some excitement at the same time, this is the tour for you.

A cloud forest canopy tour experience can be a spectacular family event. Folks of all ages enjoy this very unique adventure. It will certainly be a ride that will forever be remembered and cherished for years to come.

The beauty of the forest and the area is viewed in a way that is just not possible by any other method. Soaring through the air from tree to tree, you will be able to see things that only birds and maybe monkey's get to see. From the height of the canopy platforms you'll be able to witness the cloud forest life from a very unique perspective, not too many humans get to experience.

The Moneverde cloud forest canopy hosts a very site-specific, endemic, flora and fauna. Bromeliads and orchids, strange fungi, and lichen covered tree limbs are home-base to an array of migrating tropical birds and many exciting mammal species.

All of the tours have great instructors and guides to help you with your first experience with a Costa Rica zip lining tour. They will show you how to move from tree to tree in a safe way so that you are able to put your worries aside and just enjoy the ride.

A zip line tour through the cloud forest of Monteverde will probably be the most exciting family event you could plan for while in Costa Rica. It's something that the whole family can enjoy and will probably go down in your family history as one of the crazier, unique experiences you enjoyed on your travels. - 30231

About the Author:

Costa Rica is a wonderful place to visit, filled with much splendor and magic. The writer has resided for many years in Monteverde Costa Rica. If you ever decide to visit Monteverde make sure to check out Horseback Riding Costa Rica Monteverde.

The History Of The Waltz Dance

By Melanie LaPatin

The most romantic images are conjured up in ones mind whenever someone mentions the Waltz. Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, and countless others offered their renditions of this supremely elegant expression of dance. Today, we refer to that eminent expression of romance as the slow Waltz. Yet in the beginning, this sentimental dance of the heart was roundly condemned as scandalous due to the closed position of the dancers, the rapid pace and the incessant twirling. Women had heretofore been kept at arms length " literally!

The Viennese Waltz began in the early 1800s, and after an original round of condemnation by other countries, gradually became accepted as royalty and the upper crust of high society embraced it. It was the English that in 1921 gave us the more genteel version known as the Slow Waltz. Influenced in part by the Foxtrot, the Slow Waltz made its way to the United States. With a new basic step, including various turns, under the arm movements and hesitations, it was a graceful as it was romantic. Although still a Waltz, there was very little left of the mad twirling that once characterized the dance of its Viennese roots.

In 1921, the English held a Great Conference, which determined the official rules for various dances. For the Slow Waltz, the closed pose was to be used, with the right and left turns and basic steps established. To distinguish it from the popular Foxtrot, passing changes were forbidden in the Slow Waltz. These changes necessitated a wider area of available dance space for turns, which is one reason why you always see Fred and Ginger moving in unison around a wide, empty floor.

Although it seems a bit odd for a popular dance to be codified by a board of dance bureaucrats, no one can argue with the beauty of the results. In 1929, the form of the Slow Waltz was finalized. The original Viennese Waltz was not even under consideration, as it had died out everywhere in the world other than in Austria during World War I (although it would rise again after the end of World War II).

At the time, the English were looked upon as leaders in the world of dance. One of the great English authorities on the Slow Waltz (also called the English Waltz) was Victor Silvester, who taught the Germans how to dance.

By the 1930s, all matters pertaining to the Slow Waltz were properly referred to the English masters of the dance for a final decision. The Waltz, albeit in its slower, adapted form, had come a long way in England and in the rest of the world from its original condemnation as a vulgar display.

The Waltz that is referred to as one of the five standard International Style ballroom dances is the Slow Waltz. It has been danced by emperors and kings, presidents and royalty alike. Yet no one can forget the ultimate grace and charm of a tail-coated Fred Astaire polishing the floor with the epitome of beauty and grace, Ginger Rogers. - 30231

About the Author:

Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

Learning Spanish with Rosetta Stone

By Miriam G Price

If you are somebody who is looking for higher Spanish language learning, you will find that one resource that you can turn to is a learn Spanish software. There are a number of diverse Spanish software out there, and if you want to make sure that your command of the language is sound, a single program that will likely suggest itself to you is Rosetta Stone. Rosetta Stone has a lot to offer when it comes to Spanish language learning and if you want to find out whether it is for you, there are a small number of things to keep in mind.

What Are We Looking at?

Assuming you want to go for a Spanish language learning you might be curious about Rosetta Stone. Well, when you get it you will find yourself with the first two levels that can be used with a PC or Mac. The set includes your own microphone and instructional guide as well.

This program allows you to engage interactively with the program and you will find that it can adapt to your needs and your skills. The program is molded by your ability and you will find that one of the main features of the program is that you are engaging in active as well as receptive language learning, as the program will correct your speech through its voice recognition module.

The Upside

There are quite a few benefits that exist for those buying the software for learning Spanish. First, you'll learn that you have the ability to use it from a compact disc or to download it to your personal media player for an individual on the move. Use a little time to find out more regarding ways you can access it, and you'll learn that being able to get wrapped up in the software is of great help.

Similarly, you will find that the program itself is constructed to run at the level that you are capable of. The program only moves as fast as you do, and you will find that there is no chance of being left behind, which is a risk in many live classrooms. When you are in the process of Spanish language learning, you will find that you are going to be able to move forward and to make sure that you can get all the basics covered.

Th Downside

You will find some noteworthy disadvantages with this software. For instance, there is no live teacher on hand. Also, some complains are that you are not able to learn the right speed at which a native speaker talks. Learn more about Rosetta Stone and see if it is the way for you to learn Spanish! - 30231

About the Author:

Ed J Price has had a keen interest in Spanish Language Learning Programs for many years. For more findings, on the the Rosetta Stone Learn Spanish Software, visit her resource center now.

The History Of The Viennese Waltz

By Melanie LaPatin

The product of a more elegant age, the Viennese Waltz was introduced in Vienna in the early 1800s and was roundly condemned in England. The Times of London had this to say about the Prince Regent's grand ball in 1816, We remarked with pain that the indecent foreign dance called the Waltz was introduced (we believe for the first time) at the English court on Friday last it is quite sufficient to cast one's eyes on the voluptuous intertwining of the limbs and close compressor on the bodies in their dance, to see that it is indeed far removed from the modest reserve which has hitherto been considered distinctive of English females.

So long as this obscene display was confined to prostitutes and adulteresses, we did not think it deserving of notice; but now that it is attempted to be forced on the respectable classes of society by the civil examples of their superiors, we feel it a duty to warn every parent against exposing his daughter to so fatal a contagion.

Of course, such condemnation did not deter the upper crust from eventually indulging in the Viennese Waltz. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe wrote, Never have I moved so lightly. I was no longer a human being. To hold the most adorable creature in one's arms and fly around with her like the wind, so that everything around us fades away. When Lord Palmerston of England gave the royal stamp of approval by dancing the Viennese Waltz in public, the rest of English Society joined in " at least until 1914.

When World War I broke out, the waltz orchestras left England due to the fact that they were largely made up of Austrians. Nothing of Germanic origin was in vogue due to the war. The Viennese Waltz pretty much died out as England and Germany battled each other and the entire world joined in the fight. Austria kept it alive as a folk dance. Only the Slow Waltz variation that originated in England continued beyond the Austrian borders.

After the end of the Second World War, however, the original Viennese Waltz made a resurgence, and it remains one of the staples of ballroom dance to this day. It is a dance that requires a great deal of stamina as the dancers twirl constantly around the floor at a dizzying pace.

In America, Dr. Lloyd Pappy Shaw, who revived the Square Dance in the early 1900s, wrote, In close embrace, the dancers turned continually while they revolved around the room. There were no steps forward or back, no relief, it was all a continuous whirl of pleasure for those who could take it. If youve got the stamina, the same can be said today.

The Viennese Waltz is performed in time. Although it takes a bit of practice at first, the basic steps can be fairly quickly mastered. The original difficulty comes from starting on the alternate foot at the beginning of each bar. Once a dancer becomes comfortable with this arrangement, however, the dance becomes very fluid and elegant.

The Viennese Waltz remains essentially the same today as when it was introduced two centuries ago, and some of the greatest composers have written the most beautiful music in the world to accommodate the dancers. For this reason, the dance echoes the glories and the romance of a more genteel age. - 30231

About the Author:

Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

The History Of The Rumba Dance

By Melanie LaPatin

Dont let your mother catch you doing the Rumba! This is a dance of raw sexuality and aggressive eroticism. In fact, I believe there are several states that require you to be married to dance the Rumba together. Of course, as with most dances of this nature, the ballroom version significantly tones things down a bit.

Rumba actually refers to two completely different styles of dancing: The African-influenced Cuban version and the Ballroom version. The latter is the kind you will see on the dance floor of your local city and in ballroom competitions, where it is the slowest of the Latin competition dances. There are variations of course, but generally speaking, the Rumba is a slow, sensual, flirty dance that leaves little (if anything) to the imagination. Bodies move close to one another, rub against each other, embrace each other, taking unfettered delight in the proximity of each others bodies.

Dancing on the 2,3, and 4 beats, the first beat is reserved for other moves such as hip movements and spiral turns. One American version attempted to simplify the Rumba to a standard box step, but this took the soul out of the dance. Except for very new dance students, this form is rarely seen today.

Like other dances based on the courtship ritual, the couple comes together, parts ways, and returns for more as partners tease and arouse each other flirtatiously. While other dances focus on the male or the relationship between the two, the Rumba is a womans dance. Almost Amazonian in nature, the female body in all its glory and charms are on display in her rhythmic, sultry movements, with the male used almost as a backdrop. Sex is a weapon, and the female wields it with no mercy. Compared to a serious Rumba, the Cuban Motion looks like a 4-year-old kid riding a tricycle.

Indeed, the original Rumba was an African folk dance that pantomimed a frenzied sexual encounter. The Africans had not heard of Womens Liberation, however, so the male was aggressive and the woman resistant but ultimately submissive. One version of the Rumba known as the Son was very popular with the middle class in Cuba. It is slower and but no less dramatic. The American Rumba is very similar to the Son albeit in a modified form.

Lew Quinn and Joan Sawyer tried to bring the dance to the United States in 1913. Other groups tried but failed for the next decade. Xavier Cugat, however (the famed Coogie beloved by Charo) was acclaimed for his Latin orchestra. Opening at the Coconut Grove in Los Angeles, he was a big hit and appeared in several movies. With appearances at such prestigious locations as the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, he was the toast of Times Square by the end of the 1920s.

The 1935 movie Rumba featured George Raft as a muy suave gentleman who woos Carol Lombard through the art of the dance. In 1955, Monsieur Pierre of London (yes, London) and Doris Lavelle established the officially recognized version of the Rumba in 1955. Thanks to the version employed by this couple, you can now dance the Rumba with little fear of being arrested " at least in most states. - 30231

About the Author:

Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

History Of The Paso Doble Dance

By Melanie LaPatin

Who says the French can't be Spanish? Witness the Paso Doble. Meaning double step in Spanish, this ballroom dance for couples is set to Spanish march music that is reminiscent of a bullfight in the heart of Spain.

It is the same style of music that is played when a bullfighter enters the ring to salute the audience before the fight, and again at the end of the fight, just before the kill. This assumes, of course, that the bull doesnt win the fight.

The dance is lively and dramatic, with long sweeping steps and aggressive movements. It is a dance of preparation for battle and triumph in combat, just like the bullfights that inspired it. The male represents the matador, boldly and proudly entering the ring. The female represents the matadors cape, which he whips around with graceful elegance. The female also takes on the role of the bull or an adoring senorita dancing Flamenco. The tempo is brisk and measured but not fast, being about one beat per second. What truly makes this dance is the energy one puts into it and the level of dancing skill.

The Paso Doble as we know it today was invented in Southern France, and Pierre Lavelle made it popular with the upper crust of Paris in the 1930s. The close proximity to Spain was undoubtedly its inspiration. Although the French copied the Spanish music and movements, they named the steps in French. The Sur Place and Huit, for example.

The dance is an elaborate pantomime of a bullfight, where the matador dances proudly around, confronts his enemy (the bull) and eventually emerges victorious. Movements by the male are proud and quick, in strong defiance, while the hand and arm gestures (particularly of the female) are often graceful and fluid.

This is not a dance for a crowded dance floor, as it necessarily takes up a lot of room. It is a dance to be watched and enjoyed, usually at exhibitions, performances or competitions. Youre not likely to find a knowledgeable partner standing by the wall at your local disco. It is a performance dance.

Experienced dancers find the Paso Doble challenging but extremely rewarding. Being theatrical in nature, it requires a great deal of showmanship, if not acting ability. Very similar to the Flamenco, it requires a haughty and confident attitude for the male.

The United States first began taking notice of the dance in the 1930s, however it has never really caught on in the English-speaking countries because it is not a dance you can do without a lot of experience. For this reason, it is a great opportunity for seasoned dancers to learn something novel that will be received well by audiences.

A dynamic dance that requires extensive professional training, the Paso Doble is not a dance for the uninitiated. If you are a strong performer, however, few dances are as impressive or stylistic. If the conqueror is in your blood, step up to the challenge. Ole! N'est-ce pas? - 30231

About the Author:

Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

History Of The Merengue Dance

By Melanie LaPatin

They say, If you can walk, you can do the Merengue! Thats hardly surprising, given the legend of its origin. The story goes that a soldier returning from war was honored with a large homecoming dance. Unfortunately, his leg was wounded, so he could only step with his good leg, then drag his other leg to where he was standing. The resulting step, step, left, right, left, right pattern in time with the 4/4 music gave rise to the Merengue.

Of course, to dance the Merengue, you dont just drag one leg limping around the ballroom floor, but the constant stepping motion as if you are marching in place, keeping your feet close to the ground, is the basic pattern. More than any other dance, the Merengue is the easiest to learn and it proves that the soul of dancing is not to be found in the feet alone. Its the style and attitude you put into the steps that matter most.

If you havent mastered the Cuban Motion yet, this is the dance to practice on. The Cuban Motion can make the simplest of steps entrancing to watch " and its a lot of fun. Simply take a step on every beat of the music as you make your way around the room. In partner dancing, the woman mirrors the steps of the man, so when he moves his left foot, she moves her right. He holds her in the classic ballroom position: left hand holding her right hand, his right hand at her waist, her left hand on his right shoulder. Then its just one foot after the other and away you go!

The two step pattern can be started on any beat, but in order not to get lost in the middle of the music, its always best to start on the downbeat. The head is kept erect and the upper body remains upright, giving it a majestic appearance and somewhat of a military bearing.

The tempo can be quite fast, and there is no rest for the weary, so turns are usually made in four steps to four beats of the music. The Merengue includes three basic movements: Forward Basic, Back Basic, and Side Basic. Not surprisingly, these movements move you forward, backward, or to the side, with the female mirroring the footsteps of the male lead. Generally speaking, each movement is completed using eight steps before you begin another.

The music is very festive and the movements range from mild to wild. Its a rather fast-paced dance, as you keep marching even through turns, dips and other improvisational moves. The dance is very spontaneous and even sexy if the basic moves are there.

Given the simple nature of the step pattern, there is nothing to exclude any form of movement, which can include various intricate arm twists, turns, ropes, tunnels and pretzels. Or, if you just want to dance in closed position, gazing into your partners eyes, thats fine, too. More than one couple in history has fallen in love dancing to the Merengue! - 30231

About the Author:

Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

The History Of The Peabody Dance

By Melanie LaPatin

One of the lesser performed dances in modern ballroom today is the Peabody. Its curious history is shrouded in mystery. Although some say it was named after the Peabody Club (wherever that is) where it became popular, the better-known legend is that it was named after its creator, a fire captain (or police chief) from New York who had a penchant for patronizing the various dance halls on the island of Manhattan. The story goes that Brooklyn Captain (or Lieutenant, or Chief) William Frank Peabody was a rather portly gentleman. So large, in fact, that he could not dance with his partner in the normal fashion, so the women danced at his side. Given the look and feel of the dance, the story seems to be at least a definite possibility, however untrue it may be.

The Peabody began as a variation on the Foxtrot, which was created in New York by Harry Fox in a Manhattan theatre-turned-movie-house in 1914. Captain Peabody was said to be making the rounds at various Jazz clubs in the late teens to early 1920s. His derivative of a very fast Foxtrot is set to Dixieland Jazz or Ragtime music.

In many ways, the Peabody embodies the Golden Age of Ragtime. Its a fun, jaunty, even corny little dance that simply celebrates an evening out. Men traditionally wear old-style suits with derby hats and women wear long dresses as they jog around the room.

The steps can be quite intricate but basically follow an open box pattern and it requires a decent amount of uncrowded floor space. Although there is a definite structure to the steps, the Peabody also lends itself to great improvisation " something that attracts many dancers from Times Square to the City by the Bay and beyond. It can be quite addicting to ballroom enthusiasts who gravitate to it for that very reason.

Although not as popular today as it once was, the dance is considered part of the American Smooth dance category in ballroom competitions. Back in the day (April 21, 1934 to be exact), the Casa Del Rey Nightclub in Newark, New Jersey held a large Peabody contest. James Cagney and Loretta Young dance the Peabody to the music of Darktown Strutters Ball in the 1931 movie, Taxi (not to be confused with the TV series starring Judd Hirsch, Danny DeVito and Andy Kauffman). Although the movie labeled the scene a Foxtrot contest, the rapid dance is indeed more of a Peabody. More recently, the Peabody was featured on the popular television show, Dance Fever, in the 1980's.

Sadly, theres no way to prove whether Police or Fire Captain, or Lieutenant, or Chief Peabody ever existed. There is no mention of him at the time the dance was developed in any of the dance literature or Press articles of the day.

It would be interesting to perform a search of the Brooklyn (or Manhattan, etc.) police and fire personnel records to see if a Peabody of any kind was ever a part of the force around 1920, assuming the records even go back that far. So far no one has found him, but thats no reason to let facts interfere with a great story. - 30231

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Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

Knowing About Online English Courses

By Adriana Noton

Online classes for learning a language are becoming more popular these days. And it's the same for online English courses, too.

Students need good study materials, fast access to the Internet, and a trusty web camera. They also need focus and dedication.

Teachers also need fast Internet access and a trusty web camera. They also need to be patient, qualified, and prepared.

Many excellent reasons exist to learn any language, including English, online. It's fairly inexpensive, convenient, flexible, easy to maintain, and learning or teaching is able to be done from anywhere. Thus, as to why the need for online language courses is increasing there is no secret.

Online English courses are convenient. Students can prepare for and study a lesson at home. Then, they can switch on their computer and have a class at a pre-arranged time. No issues with commuting, weather, traffic, or other similar inconveniences are dealt with. Additionally, lessons can be done in any environment which the student finds comfortable.

There is not much maintenance involved, either. The only things a teacher or student needs are a computer, quick and reliable Internet access, and a web camera. Most people who are interested in language learning probably already have these things in their everyday life. And because learning takes place at home, all a student needs for lessons is at hand already.

The costs are relatively low, as well. Surely, fees charged by the instructor or institute or exist. However, this virtual kind of business normally requires less overhead than a typical brick-and-mortar business, and there usually aren't any other disingenuous costs. Many of these virtual institutes allow PayPal or credit card payment. And, as we all know, this kind of payment is safer and more secure than ever.

In contemporary times, being flexible is a key component to any success in life or business. And flexibility is one the key reasons people study online. Appointment times are flexible. Payment methods are flexible. Attire is flexible. The study environment is even flexible. Of course, students are able to study at their own pace, as well. Together, all of these renders excellent a non-traditionalist's choice for online studying.

Studying or learning from anywhere is possible. A student in New York City can learn from a teacher living in Nairobi. A student in Buenos Aires can talk with a teacher in Manchester. And a teacher in Houston can tutor a student living in Shanghai. And what this does is add an untold likability to online learning.

If you are or have been curious to know more about online language-learning, don't delay in finding out more. And this holds true for online English courses, too.

However, it's a good idea to keep in mind this: remember that, as a student you still will have to work hard. You'll still have to practice, study, and be prepared every day. And, you need to, as a teacher, be patient, prepared, and qualified. Whichever of the two you are, make sure you do exhaustive research about the online course you intend to take. Doing so helps make your experience as good as possible. - 30231

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Free English lessons are readily available across the web. You may want to consider these convenient resources to learn English.

History Of Bolero Dance

By Melanie LaPatin

Latin culture is considered by many to be the epitome of passion and romance. The great Rudolph Valentino was known as the Latin Lover, and made famous the Tango from Argentina, although he was actually Italian.

One of the most sultry and erotic forms of music is the Bolero. The most recognizable music of this genre was written by Joseph-Maurice Ravel in 1928, although he himself was less than impressed with his own work and called it a piece for orchestra without music. This is the music heard when Bo Derek tries to seduce Dudley Moore in the 1979 movie, 10.

Such evocative music necessitates a dance just as voluptuous in its sensuality. Bolero is an American Style dance, although it originates from Spain and Cuba and the versions are quite different. In the 1930s, when the Bolero made its way into the United States, the music consisted of nothing more than pulsating drum beats.

Originally from Spain, the Bolero was danced in 3/4 time. Combining the musical genres of contradanza and the sevillana, dancer Sebastiano Carezo invented the Bolero in 1780. It is one of the oldest dances of Spain, and is faster than the version that evolved in Cuba. The Spanish version was a shorter, different adaptation of the Fandango. The Bolero was a type of Spanish ballet, whereas in the Fandango, a man and woman danced around each other in a simulation of courtship, never touching.

The Cubans changed the rhythm to 2/4 time, but later switched to 4/4. Jos Pepe Snchez is credited with creating the Cuban Bolero in 1883. Today, performers dance the Bolero as a very slow Rumba, with slow, graceful movements that stir the blood and excite the senses. In fact, the Cuban Bolero was originally misnamed the Rumba in the 1930s. It is a dance of barely contained passion, as dancers are hypnotized by the music into a living dream and the audience is carried away along with them. Since the dance is an expression of the music, it can be performed as easily by a single dancer, a couple, or a dance troupe. The tempo is moderately slow the music is often punctuated with guitars or castanets.

The Cuban Bolero had great influence on Latin America, and it is recognized as one of the first notable exports of Cuban art. The dance is performed with three steps to four beats, as in other Cuban dances. The first step is taken on the second beat instead of the first, and the meter is slow, quick, quick, slow, quick, quick.

In dance competitions, the Bolero is one of five rhythm dances in the American Style ballroom category in addition to the Rumba, Mambo, East Coast Swing, and Cha Cha. Of all the rhythm dances, the Bolero is the slowest, with only about 96 beats per minute (about a beat and a half per second).

The body rises, falls, sweeps and stretches gracefully, as if painting a portrait with determined movement. It takes many years to develop a true bolero style, but from Los Angeles to Times Square, if you have passion in your soul and you want to impress an audience, there are few dances as evocative as the Bolero. - 30231

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Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

History Of The Cuban Motion

By Melanie LaPatin

Whether its the Rumba, Mambo, Cha Cha, Salsa or Merengue, theres a lot more to Latin dancing that simply learning the steps. While all of these styles are great fun to dance, in order to master any of them, you have to develop what is known as the Cuban Motion. Although somewhat hard to describe, the Cuban Motion is like what they used to say about a rattlesnake, Youll know it when you see it.

The Cuban Motion earned its name from the way that Cubans move when they dance, and this motion is essential to any form of Latin dancing if you want to do it right. Of course, it comes naturally to Cubans. When performed properly, the Cuban motion is fluid, sensual, fun and quite a work out, as it coordinates movement between all the body parts, literally using every muscle.

The first thing most people will notice and recognize is the characteristic swaying of the hips, but the Cuban Motion is so much more than that. A wide variety of movements must come together in unison, but once everything clicks and the movement becomes natural, it is an incredibly impressive form of dance.

The trick is to learn each movement individually until it becomes second nature, then put them all together. Since this is a dance, after all, the best way is to start from the bottom up. The feet touch the ground first with the ball of the foot, followed by the heel so the foot is flat on the floor. The feet alternate in this manner: Ball, heelball, heel. Meanwhile, the knees bend and straighten naturally. As the heel is up, the knee of that leg is bent, when the heel comes down, that leg is straightened. Similar to the motion of riding a bicycle, but without raising the feet very far from the floor. Also like riding a bike, the hips sway in rhythm with the rising and falling heel. The weight of the body shifts from one foot to the other as the foot is flat on the floor. All of this movement is completely isolated from the rest of the body, which has its own movements.

The entire upper torso remains upright, as if the upper half of your body doesnt know what the lower half is doing. The rib cage, while keeping erect, moves from side to side in opposition to the hips. As the right hip comes up, the rib cage shifts laterally to the right, as the left hip comes up, the cage shifts laterally to the left. The shoulders shift up, matching the hip movement, while the arms remain relaxed and held in an outward position, giving the illusion that the arms are unaffected by the movement of the center torso.

Start off practicing each movement, then start combining the movements from the footwork up. When you have everything together, practice to slow music, then increase speed. Throughout it all your body must be relaxed.

Eventually, the different areas of the body will start moving together. When all of this comes naturally to you, you can incorporate the Cuban Movement into any Latin dance step " and you will look and feel like a pro! - 30231

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Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!

Try These To Learn To Speak English

By Adriana Noton

Learning a language is difficult. It doesn't matter if it's your native language or second one, it's hard. And to learn to speak English is difficult, too. Many people worldwide, however, have the misconception that learning English is easy. This is a mistake and those who study it a while eventually realize how difficult English really is.

For starters, it's easy to understand how people might think English is easy. It's because English is easy to pick up. It's everywhere. It's the native language of many countries. There are many accents and kinds of pronunciations. People in non-English-speaking countries study it. Because so many people use it, many others commit the error of thinking that English is easy.

Second, there are many rules in English. Both grammar and sentence must adhere to strict rules. But nearly every rule has exceptions. And these exceptions often have no discernible logic to them. So, English has lots of flexibility, as well. This leads to many inconsistencies in when and how the rules are enforced. And it makes rote memorization impossible as a method to learn English.

Third, English pronunciation is not consistent. In fact, it's so fluid that changes abound from region to region even in countries where English is the native tongue. Yet, learning English pronunciation is one of the most important aspects of mastering the language. There is no simple or easy way to master English pronunciation, either, regardless of what you've been told. It takes work. It takes practice. And then it takes more work and practice.

Another difficulty is recognizing the correct vocabulary, structure, and grammar, and when to use it, even if it doesn't really seem right. One example is using split infinitives. In school, we are taught not to use them, yet using split infinitives is normal in spoken English. They're usually used to emphasize a point. Some even argue it just sounds better that way.

A fifth difficulty is being able to distinguish when to use proper English and when to use colloquial English. This is not always easy because many celebrities use proper English inappropriately. Many learners pick up on this and try to emulate. Conversely, there are many academics or professionals who have no idea how to speak colloquially or use slang.

Sixth, there are many English "experts" out there who claim that they've developed the best method to mastering English fast. A language cannot be mastered fast, regardless of what proof they offer that theirs can. These people are shysters. As with learning any other language, English is not easily learned. To do so properly takes diligence, patience, practice, and good teaching.

English is a great language. Because most native speakers are used to listening to a variety of native accents throughout their life, listening to non-native speakers isn't so difficult. So if you want to learn how to speak English, just a modicum of effort will allow you to communicate on even a rudimentary level.

However, if you want to progress your skills, it's going to require what everything else requires in order to master something. A strong foundation of the basics, practicing pronunciation daily, learning new vocabulary every day, and always trying, unafraid of your mistakes. Just don't forget - learning English is not easy. But you can make it seem easy by working hard. - 30231

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Online English courses and business english lessons offered by native speakers.

History Of The Cha Cha Dance

By Melanie LaPatin

Everyone knows how to dance the Cha Cha, even if they have never danced before in their life. Everyone knows the beat, One, Two, CHA-CHA-CHA! In fact, when it first caught on in America around 1954, it was known as the Cha Cha Cha.

The Bobby Rydell song begins, Baby, baby, come on sway me, drive me crazy. Do the Cha Cha Cha. Theres a recent song by David Nash called Cha Cha like Charo, referring to the blonde Latin bombshell known for being unabashedly Latin in all her unbridled glory. Born in Murcia, Spain, Charos real name is Mara Rosario Pilar Martnez Molina Moquiere de les Esperades Santa Ana Romanguera y de la Najosa Rasten and she helped popularize Latin music in the United States.

Immensely popular for the beginning, the Cha Cha is a dance that has never gone out of style and is a perennial favorite at weddings. The dance is very easy to learn, and once you have the basic pattern down, you can use as much of the dance floor " or as little " as you like.

You can dance it in a crowded room or a wide open space. Cha Cha came from the Mambo, as people began dancing to the distinct background beat. Originally called the Triple Mambo, the Cha Cha soon spun off on its own.

Havana, Cuba was one of the hottest hot spots to go in the 1940s. Sky Masterson takes Miss Sarah Brown to Cuba to impress her and win a bet in the Broadway musical, Guys and Dolls. Tennessee Williams and Ernest Hemingway visited Cuba and the experience influenced their writings. Havana was an extremely popular resort for the rich and famous who could get there.

The most famous American dance bands as well as many outstanding Latin orchestras native to Cuba played in the city's casinos. It was here that the Mambo was born, and the Cha Cha Cha was an offshoot of that dance.

The Cha Cha was originally one of the Mambo moves, where two slow steps were followed by three quick steps, changing weight on each step. This figure from the Mambo became the basic step of the Cha Cha. Given its close association with the Rumba and Mambo, it should be no surprise that the Cha Cha is very similar in style. The feet remain close to the floor as in most Latin dances. The hips move free freely, although the upper body is usually erect and the dancers glide across the floor at approximately 126 beats per minute in 4/4 time.

In 1952, an English dance teacher named Pierre Lavelle travelled to Cuba, and brought his version back to the British Isles. The famous American dance instructor Arthur Murray thought it would be easier to learn if he simplified the dance to a 1, 2, 3, Cha Cha rhythm. Although this amounted to pretty much the same thing, the Cha Cha slowed down somewhat and became a bit more mechanical for Murrays students.

To this day, the Cha Cha has remained one of the most popular dances in competitions and dance halls. Less sensual than the Mambo and less erotic than the Bolero, it is just plain fun to dance. In the words of the immortal Sam Cooke, Everybody loves the Cha Cha Cha! - 30231

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Looking for dance lessons nyc area? Visit DanceTimesSquare.com and work with the pros from So You Think You Can Dance! Receive a private dance lesson at their New York studio for $20!