Keeping up with the Nicas

So every country has it's own unique culture... and it's time for a little Nica 101.

- How to say no like a Nica:
Don't you dare smile.  Just stare and move your index finger back and forth.  There should be no other movement involved.  Just your finger.

- How to mix your drink like a Nica:
Take that same useful finger and stick in your drink.  Swirl.  Repeat with the next rum & coke.  No spoon necessary, and swirling your glass just will NOT cut it.

- How to cool off like a (rural) Nica:
Pull up your wife beater and stick out your belly.  Voila- almost as good as AC.  For the most impressive Nica bellies head to rural beaches.  I'll try to get a picture....

And finally, how to dance like a Nica: don't be a gringa.

I found a dance studio within walking distance.  I seriously think God created this part of Managua with me in mind....  gringos, restaurants, a room with AC and a dance studio.  Thank you!

Anyways, I decided to try out "Ritmos latinos" last night and though I thoroughly enjoyed it, I learned I have no ritmo.  Ballet training doesn't exactly include Shakira moves.

The studio is "indoors" with all the window open, so no AC and no breeze.  Think of dancing in a sauna.  The teacher had a ton of energy given that this was basically bikram.  He (though it took me a moment for that fact to register) also LOVES to shake it.  And unlike the rest of the girls (and a few guys) in the class, I am not latina.  My feet got about 90% of the moves and my hips got about 30%.  And my abs were killing me.

Guess I'll just have to go back.  Salsa next time?