Fascinating Dance Destinations Around the World

By Wendy | May 18, 2019

Dance has long been a form of cultural expression with modern dance taking inspiration from ancient practices from around the world. For some cultures, their dance styles are symbolic of their homeland.

If you’re passionate about dance, consider visiting some of these fascinating dance destinations. You may find yourself inspired to get moving.

Spain - Flamenco


Much of the quality dancewear found in North America has infusions from the Flamenco dancers of Spain. Ruffles and floral accessories are a staple for Flamenco dancers, who use the fabric of their stunning garb as a tool in their craft. Bold reds convey passion, and flamenco dancing is often rife with hand clapping, foot tapping, and other forms of percussive motion.

Flamenco dancing originates in Southern Spain, interested travelers can take in a show in various tablaos-- clubs-- across the country. For a truly authentic experience, ask the locals rather than following the tourists.

Scotland - Sword Dancing


Highland dancing is a Scottish tradition in which dancers adorn traditional Scottish garb and engage in light, rhythmic foot movements. Sword dancing is a form of Highland Dance that both male and female dancers take part in. This skilled form of movement requires two swords layered in a cross or x on the floor, while dancers move lithely between the quadrants without hitting the blades.

Highland dancing can still be witnessed in various parts of Scotland, particularly the popular town of Edinburgh. For those with an adventurous spirit, this traditional form of dance is still honored in Canada, in the province of Nova Scotia (New Scotland).

New Zealand - Haka


Rugby fans will recognize the Haka dance as a powerful way to start a match. This Maori tribal dance is used as a display of solidarity, strength, and pride. The dance incorporates fierce movements, including yelling, stomping, and posturing. Not only does the Haka act as a ritual of intimidation, but it can also be used as a conveyance of respect to an honored individual or opposing team.

The Haka and that Maori people originate in New Zealand. If rugby isn’t your sport of choice, there are many cultural centers that regularly perform the Haka dance and are open to participants who want to learn this traditional sign of strength.

India - Fire Dancing


In some cultures, dance isn’t just a form of cultural expression; it’s a religious rite. In the desert, Guru Jasnath Ji Maharaj Jagran perform fire dancing as a way to worship the gods. It’s believed that the dancing invokes blessings from the gods that allow the dancers to dance over hot coals without being harmed. The music performed during this dance is rhythmic and melodious, using a combination of tribal chanting and handheld instruments.

As fire dancing is a religious rite, it’s challenging to see the authentic display in action. However, there are fire dancers throughout India who both walk on the coals and use flaming apparatuses to put on a show at festivals and tourist attractions.

Cambodia - The Celestial Dance


The Apsaras dance of Cambodia is a traditional religious dance in which dancers are adorned with elaborate headgear that replicates the appearance of ancient temples. The traditional garb is boldly colored in vibrant blues and yellows with gold thread and embellishments. The dancers wear jewelry that represents the celestial elements and move delicately and smoothly across the floor.

There are many students of traditional Celestial Dancing in Cambodia who work at various tourist locations and put on large scale shows through the School of Fine Arts. Remember to be respectful when watching these performances and ask permission before taking photographs.

Fascinating forms of dance can be found anywhere in the world if one knows where to look. Taking part in these performances is a great way to immerse yourself in a foreign culture and appreciate diversity.

Spain Asia India Scotland Dance Cambodia Oceania United Kingdom Europe New Zealand

Share this tip:

Written by Wendy
Outreach manager Wendy Dessler is a super-connector who helps businesses find their audience online through outreach, partnerships, and networking. She frequently writes about the latest advancements in digital marketing and focuses her efforts on developing customized blogger outreach plans depending on the industry and competition.

Thoughts? Questions?

See also

Accommodations

Tours and activities

Bursa Uludağ Tour From Istanbul

Bursa has been an important city throughout the Ottoman history. It has the title of the first capital of the Ottoman state. It is a region that is the center of attention for 4 seasons. In summer, it is the center of attention of tourists with its magnificent natural beauties. During the winter months, Uludağ Ski Center hosts

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Private Table

Cruise the Bosphorus Strait while enjoying a dinner and show. Enjoy a selection of food and drinks while being entertained by a Turkish night show. Admire views of Istanbul's historical buildings as they are lit up at night. Snap photos and enjoy the sparkle of the city. See the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Galata Bridge, the Rumeli Fortre