Hello, dance enthusiasts! Are you ready for the adventure? I'm a tango dancer with 24 years of experience and a suitcase full of tips for your next getaway. Because, let's admit it, we dancers are creatures of habits and obsessions and we need everything perfectly aligned to unleash our magic on the dance floor.
Research Before Packing:
Before you start filling your suitcase, I recommend taking a look at photos from previous Tango Maya Fest events. Why? Well, the pictures will give you a clear idea of the prevailing dress code at the festival. Casual, elegant, themed? It all counts! Also, carefully review the event schedule. Some parties may have specific dress codes. In the case of Tango Maya, there are at least four parties with particular dress codes!
Get Ready to Shine!
With that information in mind, you can smartly assemble your wardrobe, making sure you have the perfect outfits for every occasion. From elegant gala attire to chic beach outfits, get ready to dazzle on the dance floor and on the beach!
Before the Trip:
First, let's take a look at the weather. Summer, winter, fall? This little detail will dictate what type of outfits you should be packing. In the case of the Tango Maya Fest in Cancun, we must consider both the atmosphere of the festival and the proximity to the beach. Will there be outdoor activities or in enclosed spaces? Will there be humidity? And if outdoors, a little bit, it's the Caribbean, friends… but no worries because the sea breeze takes away any discomfort… Will there be air conditioning? (Yes, don't worry about that, we have excellent air conditioning for the enclosed space, in fact, I'll tell you to bring a pashmina or a light sweater for those moments when you're not dancing…)
Shoes, Shoes, Shoes:
If there's one thing that can never be missing from a dancer's suitcase, it's the right shoes. I recommend bringing at least two different styles. If not three… Leather-soled shoes are perfect for outdoors, while those with soles that don't slip as much like chrome or suede are ideal for smoother, slipperier dance floors like the one we have in the main hall, our grand ballroom. As an added bonus, I'd bring practice shoes or low heels, as it's very common to dance all day and get tired feet, this will save you! Going into the sea is also excellent therapy to relax that dancing body.
Variability in Wardrobe:
When it comes to clothing, the key is versatility. Bring basics that you can easily mix and match. A skirt that goes with several tops, lightweight pants, a casual dress, and another dressier one for special occasions are essential basics. But remember, try everything on before packing! Comfort and feeling beautiful/handsome is the key.
Don't Forget the Details!
A pashmina, bandaids for the inevitable blisters on your feet, double-sided tape for small adjustments on clothing, on the neckline, or on last-minute rips (don't worry, there's a sewing kit at the hotel for those moments), and sunscreen are essential. Another pro tip, bring essential oils or muscle relaxing ointments... believe me, they come in handy after milongas for a recovery ritual to make you feel like new the next day.
Special Tips for Outdoor Milongas/ Maya Fest Version:
As this festival takes place in a beach environment, you'll need versatile outfits for beach parties that allow you to move between the dance floor, the beach, and the pool without any problems. Sarongs, loose dresses, beach-style pants, you may want to wear your swimsuit underneath in case after a Darienzo tanda you feel like taking a dip in the pool. Everything goes! Some people wear summer tango outfits and heels and others wear swimsuits and sandals so you choose, this is a moment of freedom and enjoyment! The best thing is that your room is so close that you can go change whenever you need to.
Little Tricks:
Closed sandals with thin soles that glide well on surfaces can be your best friend for dancing on the terrace without changing shoes. And for the night, don't forget the brush to clean the soles of your shoes, for the most obsessive (like me) a little dance wax in case you need an extra slide on the dance floor. (The festival always has extra wax available)
Look at this vide with some of the tangueros in the Gala Night
So there you have it, my dear dancers, a complete guide of the travell essentials for a dancer to ensure that your experience at the Tango Maya Fest is unforgettable for all the right reasons. See you on the dance floor, and may the music never stop!
Write to me if you have any questions or if you want to contribute any advice. I invite you to leave it in the comments!