Salsa City Forum » News and Chat » The Monk

I stopped going to the Monday night lessons at the Old Monk about 6 weeks ago, but when I was there last night there were hardly any ladies. I put this down to my non-attendance giving the ladies no reason to turn up, but is there some other reason?

I don't know if this accounts for the dearth of ladies at The Monk but it seems to me that the standard of dress and physical condition of many of the men who go to salsa in Cardiff is simply appalling. Maybe we've become so used to having plenty of women at salsa nights that we've come to think we don't have to bother. But it wouldn't surprise me if Cardiff salsaras, both beginners and experienced dancers, balked at dancing with the posse of potbellied scruffs they are often confronted with.

So guys, let's encourage the women back to salsa by resolving to lose weight and go shopping in 2004.

I don't think this is the issue. If it is about the men, it's more to do with attitude and dancing ability than appearance. Most women dancers I know are quite happy to dance with men who are neither slim nor chic as long as they are pleasant and treat them with respect, stay on rhythm and can lead without yanking them about.

On the other hand, it could just be down to the general seediness of the venue. Apparently the women's toilets are just as clean and well-maintained as the men's...

I won't extend upon that previous comment, Bailamos, except to say the ladies toilets are certainly a 'scary' experience and REALLY, we need to go there in twos as they don't feel very safe.

Back to the main thread though..

I don't think the Monk has been too deserted by us ladies, recently. At least not the past few weeks anyway! I know I've been going there with a group of female friends, so I know I'm trying to do my bit.

However, in general the Salsa scene, in Cardiff, has become a little quieter and so there are fewer people at most of the venues.

Although maybe, with the Toad being shut for nearly two months, and the possibility that O'Neills, might not be going on for much longer; this will encourage the venues that are left in Cardiff and they will become more busy; or possibly it could break the scene here.

I know that my friends and I have been visiting Bristol more, possibly other people should look there too?!

(And Hugh, give the guys in Cardiff a break! They may not be photographically perfect, but they are more than adequate for us ladies! Although, I wouldn't mind finding a well-kept, young, gentleman at one of the venues - is there anyway that can be arranged as my Christmas present? ;)

OK, I stand corrected. (But I'm still gonna take my own advice.)

"loose weight" over the Christmas period Hugh? That will be a first for anyone - salsa dancing or not :-)

Pinky, what nights/venues would you recommend in Bristol?

Sorry for the late response!

Recommendations:
Certainly the Sulis Twixmas Party on Sat. 27th Dec. will be a great night out in Bath for a one off.

But on a more regular basis the Fiesta Havana in Bristol on a Wed. and a Thurs. night is really good for a change of scene.

Unfortunately I'm not sure what's happening over Christmas, but whatever happens I'm sure it won't be as bad as the deathly quiet in Cardiff.

Plus, Thurs. nights there should make up for the lack of the Toad.

If you are interested get in touch with Salsamania, I believe that you can contact them on 07976 251596.

This week is the last one at Fiesta Havana until the New Year. Starts back on 7 Jan. There's a bit more information on the salsamania web site but not much.