Firstly, hi everyone.

After reading this forum for a while and looking around dance-related websites and stuff, I've decided to actually learn to dance.

I've found quite a few local places that have beginner lessons starting in early June, which is good timing.

Does anyone have any advice or random thoughts for a soon to be beginner?

Thanks

Welcome to our world Galaxia Guy; the ladies will appreciate it since there are generally more women then men at the dances - at least in the USA.

Just be patient with yourself and don't be discouraged if something you're learing doesn't work out right at first; this in not something you can learn in the street and as already mentioned, just have lots of fun!

If I should ever go back to the UK - I was there back in 1987, but was out of dancing at that time, I'd certainly want to check out the dancing there.

"Dancing is a contact sport; football is a hitting sport" - Vince Lombardi

Regarding something more specific, it's difficult to say. It really is all up to you and what you think might interest you the most. When I first started lessons, I learned smooth and latin together (a little at a time). Through the years, I favored latin. All of a sudden (the past 6 months) I'm starting to enjoy the smooth dances more and more.

But no matter how you look at it, all dancing is fun.

Regards,
Hoofer

Just 2 words... have fun!!!

I couldn't agree with Bruce more. Have fun! If you get upset or frustrated about something, take a break from it (i.e., trouble with one dance, switch to another, then go back to the trouble; you'll have a fresh outlook).

Cool.

Now for something more specific. The place that seems best does too main beginner lessons called Ballroom/latin and Salsa.

It was after seeing someone demonstrating a basic Salsa step to a friend that I got interested, but after reading about it on the net everything seems good. So I'm not sure what to go for.

Of course I could always go to the first lesson of both anyway...

Start with any dance that appeals to you! If you like it, you'll eventually want to learn them all. Welcome to a lifetime hobby!