Here's Your Insider's Guide to Mastering Zouk in Sao Paulo:
- Stick to Sao Paulo for vibrant dance scene, live in Pinheiros and Vila Madalena for safety and convenience.
- Expect to pay around $30 -$60 USD per hour for zouk lessons, with privates being the preferred choice.
- Recommended socials include League of Shadows and Narnia Zouk for weekly sessions, and Zouk com Calma, Zouk Magic, and One Zouk for monthly highlights.
- Socials typically range from $3 to $10 USD, with advance payment options available through WhatsApp groups.
- Stay humble on your journey; learning zouk is a rewarding challenge, regardless of skill level.
More details:
- Transportation in Sao Paulo: Most social events are centered around the city, easily accessible by the metro costing $1 each way. During rush hours, the metro can be faster, but Uber rides are also affordable, typically costing around $6 for a 30-minute trip. Remember to be courteous in Ubers to maintain a good rating.
- Comparison with Rio: While Rio de Janeiro is an alternative to Sao Paulo, it offers fewer social events and lacks a robust training culture. Additionally, Rio can feel more dangerous and less welcoming, especially for foreigners. The dance style in Rio leans towards high-energy lambazouk, whereas Sao Paulo embraces a mix of hip-hop, RnB, and cremozouk, sometimes referred to as Zouk Black.
- Cost of Private Lessons: Private lessons in Sao Paulo typically range from 150 to 200 BRL per teacher per hour. It's common to find discounts for lesson packages, but prices may vary depending on the teacher. Don't hesitate to inquire about pricing.
- Social Schedule: Social events usually kick off around 10 or 11 pm and last until 5 am. The metro closes at midnight and reopens at 5 am, allowing parties to run late into the night.
- Zouk Migration Period: Between early December and the end of January, Sao Paulo experiences a "gringo Zouk Migration," attracting dancers from around the world. During this time, socials are packed, offering a diverse range of Zouk styles. However, prices for private lessons may be higher due to increased demand.
