Bachata dancing in San Francisco

Bachata split in two. The traditional Dominican form is fast footwork, sharp hip, four-beat box — the way it was always danced in the countryside. Modern sensual bachata came up through Spain in the 2010s and brought slower tempos, body waves, and tighter frame. Most US rooms mix both, with the DJ leaning one way or the other on a given night. The song tells you which to dance; the partner tells you how much.

Easier to pick up than salsa — the basic is a four-count box and the music is patient. Start with traditional if you want the roots, sensual if you want to learn the modern look. Either way, the side step and the tap come before any turn pattern.