Sala Pacífica

Sala Pacific, sometimes written Sala Pacífica, is a dance school and social dance hall dedicated to salsa and bachata. Its own website places it at Calle Palleter 9 in Quart de Poblet, a town bordering Valencia to the west, rather than in the city centre, so check the address before setting off. For dancers across the metropolitan area it is one of the regular weekend stops for Latin social dancing.

The venue works on two levels. During the week it is a school, with small group classes organised by level and style, private lessons for individuals or couples, choreographies for weddings and celebrations and preparation for shows or competitions. The styles taught include Cuban salsa, both in line and free style, Dominican, sensual and fusion bachata, and ballroom dancing. At weekends the classroom becomes a discotheque with a DJ and dance floor, so students can practise what they have learned alongside other dancers.

Social dancing usually takes place on Saturday nights from 23:30 and on Sunday afternoons from 18:30, according to dance guides, but the programme changes, so it is worth checking the day's event first. The calendar also includes themed dinners where dinner and dancing share the same evening, monthly themed parties, workshops and masterclasses with guest teachers, student showcases and occasional live music. Birthdays and private celebrations can be organised as well.

The crowd is made up of dance students, regular social dancers of different ages and newcomers who want to give it a try, and the classes are organised by level, so beginners have a natural way in. The atmosphere is about dancing rather than being seen. Dress is casual, but comfortable shoes that turn easily on the floor make a real difference. The minimum age is 18.

Prices published by the venue are modest: entry to the discotheque costs around 11 euros including a drink, dinner and dance around 29 euros, group classes start at 25 euros a month for one hour a week, and private lessons cost around 30 euros. Quart de Poblet is connected to Valencia by metro, and a taxi from the centre is a short ride, which is the easiest option after a late session.