HOW: Joining our group of dance explorers to “DANCE IN FLORIPA 2008”- the biggest Brazilian Ballroom Dance event in Brazil with dance workshops, parties, shows and dance competition.

Auditions for students
If you are a professional Ballroom Dancer “Dance in Floripa” presents a great opportunity for you to showcase your students and all of your hard work with them.  Auditions are open to the public by means of a video submission of your spotlight showcase. The best entries will be presented in a theater.

Participate of our American Waltz Formation Team.
This invitation is open to all participants that dance waltz. Our international Dancing Trips Group was cordially invited to do a demonstration of Bronze Level American Style Formation Dance as part of a cultural exchange that will showcase Ballroom Dances of USA.  “Dancing Trips” has designed easy group choreography that will be taught and rehearsed in the first three days of our trip by our ballroom dance volunteers. After enrollment the participants will receive a list of the figures that belong to the routine so the dancers may start their practice prior to the trip. Participation is optional.

WHEN: From April 30 to May 5

WHERE:
Florianópolis or Floripa, as it is more commonly known, is a fantastic place, a vibrant mix of the best Brazil offers. The capital of the State of Santa Catarina, one of Brazil's wealthiest per capita states, Florianópolis is modern and cosmopolitan yet enchanting and rustic at the same time.  One of the most popular destinations in Brazil, it is also called “The Magical Island” due to its unique combination of superb beaches, a distinctive culture, beautiful scenery, and cosmopolitan mix of people.  It is one of the few destinations in the world where the new and the old coexist harmoniously.  Blessed with tremendous natural beauty, the city also offers lively beaches (particularly in the South American vacation season of December through March), a strong tourism infrastructure, excellent dining and nightlife, first-rate shopping options as well as pristine nature reserves and charming little fishing villages. The island has 42 main beaches (each with a distinct neighborhood and personality-- truly something for everyone), innumerable parks, quaint plazas, large lagoons, sand dunes, and much more.

HOTEL:
The Majestic Palace is a five-star hotel that combines sophistication and comfort with a spectacular view of the North Bay.  It’s location, next to the Beiramar Shopping mall, allows easy and fast access to the beaches in the north, south and east of the island, to Hercílio Luz International Airport, the Centrosul Convention Center and the federal and state universities. The hotel has comprehensive facilities for guests visiting for business or pleasure. With 261 rooms, the Majestic has become an icon of charm and elegance in Southern Brazil.

Tentative Schedule:
This is a tentative schedule.
The locations and places are subject to change.

April 30 – Transfer to/From airport reception and the hotel. City tour in Downtown!. Introductory “survival” class in Brazilian ballroom dances. Practice time for showcase.Welcome night dinner with live music to enjoy and relax.

May 1 – Breakfast at hotel.  Special Brazilian ballroom dance Class:  Samba and Bolero. Practice time for Showcase. Special Tour during the day- “Exploring the Magical Island - Part I”. “Dance in Floripa” festival opening ceremony. Gala Night with professional show at a theater. Dinner and Dancing party.

May 2 – Breakfast at hotel. Shopping tour. Dance workshops with a great variety of levels and dances. Practice time for showcase. Evening presentations at the theater.  Showcase Group presentation. Celebration Dinner. Thematic Dancing Party.

May 3 – Breakfast at hotel. Special city tour during the day- “Exploring the Island - Part II”. Dance workshops with a great variety of levels and dances.
Dinner/Theater/Ballroom Competition/Dance Party

May 4 – Breakfast at hotel. Free Morning - Dance workshops with a great variety of levels and dances.
Dinner. Theater Presentations. Awards.Farewell party.

May 5 – Breakfast at hotel. “Exploring the Island–Part III”. Late Farewell Lunch. Transfer to the Airport

The tours “Explore the Magical Island” by land, or by sea (yes! We have a boat tour included) are designed to highlight the best features of the island with a complete overview of the best attractions. We will cover all areas of the island--south, center, north, east and west. We may stop by some beautiful beaches and historical sites as well. All the tours are conducted by English-speaking guides.