Fun Classes for Expats Living in Santiago de los Caballeros
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Santiago de los Caballeros by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
As an expat or digital nomad living in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, immersing yourself in the local culture and community is a fantastic way to enrich your experience abroad. One of the best ways to do this is by taking classes that not only interest you but also provide an opportunity to learn new skills and meet like-minded individuals. Whether you're looking to master the art of Dominican cooking, improve your Spanish language skills, or unleash your inner artist, Santiago de los Caballeros offers a variety of classes that cater to English-speaking adults. Here's a curated list of classes that are perfect for those still learning the language and looking to dive into new experiences.
Centro Cultural Dominico-Americano
Type of Class(es): Spanish Language Courses
Location: Calle 27 de Febrero, Santiago de los Caballeros
As a cultural bridge between the Dominican Republic and the United States, the Centro Cultural Dominico-Americano offers Spanish language courses tailored for English speakers. These classes are designed to help you quickly improve your Spanish proficiency in a supportive environment, making daily interactions in Santiago de los Caballeros much smoother.
Escuela de Arte y Diseño de Santiago
Type of Class(es): Painting, Drawing, and Design
Location: Av. Las Carreras, Santiago de los Caballeros
For those with a creative streak, the Escuela de Arte y Diseño de Santiago provides a range of art classes, including painting and drawing. These courses are a great way to express yourself artistically while also getting to know fellow expats and locals who share your passion for art.
La Aurora Cigar Factory
Type of Class(es): Cigar Making and Tasting
Location: Tamboril, Santiago de los Caballeros
La Aurora Cigar Factory offers a unique experience with their cigar making and tasting classes. Dive into the rich tradition of Dominican cigar craftsmanship and enjoy the opportunity to taste some of the finest cigars in the world, all while learning about the process from expert artisans.
Instituto de Gastronomía y Repostería Franco-Dominicano
Type of Class(es): Cooking and Baking
Location: Calle Del Sol, Santiago de los Caballeros
At the Instituto de Gastronomía y Repostería Franco-Dominicano, you can take cooking and baking classes that teach the fundamentals of Dominican cuisine as well as international dishes. These classes are a delicious way to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn recipes that you can share with friends and family back home.
Academia de Vino
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Av. Juan Pablo Duarte, Santiago de los Caballeros
The Academia de Vino is perfect for wine enthusiasts looking to expand their knowledge of wine. With classes on wine tasting and appreciation, you'll learn about different grape varieties, wine regions, and pairing tips, all while enjoying the company of fellow wine lovers.
Centro León
Type of Class(es): Cultural Workshops and Exhibitions
Location: Av. 27 de Febrero, Santiago de los Caballeros
Centro León is not only a museum but also a cultural hub offering various workshops and exhibitions. These activities often include elements of Dominican culture, history, and art, providing a rich educational experience for expats and digital nomads looking to deepen their understanding of their new home.
Escuela Taller de Fotografía
Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops
Location: Calle Restauración, Santiago de los Caballeros
For photography enthusiasts, the Escuela Taller de Fotografía offers workshops that cater to all skill levels. These classes will help you capture the beauty of Santiago de los Caballeros and the Dominican Republic through your lens, while also providing a space to connect with other photographers.
Academia de Música de Santiago
Type of Class(es): Music Lessons
Location: Calle del Sol, Santiago de los Caballeros
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, the Academia de Música de Santiago provides music lessons for a variety of instruments. Learn to play the rhythms of the Caribbean or refine your existing skills in a welcoming environment that celebrates the universal language of music.
Centro de Estudios Culinarios y Turísticos
Type of Class(es): Culinary Arts and Tourism
Location: Av. Estrella Sadhalá, Santiago de los Caballeros
The Centro de Estudios Culinarios y Turísticos offers courses in culinary arts that are perfect for foodies and aspiring chefs. These classes not only teach cooking techniques but also provide insights into the tourism industry, which is a significant part of the Dominican economy.
Alianza Francesa de Santiago
Type of Class(es): French Language and Culture
Location: Calle El Sol, Santiago de los Caballeros
For those interested in expanding their language skills beyond Spanish, the Alianza Francesa de Santiago offers French language courses. Alongside language instruction, they also host cultural events that allow you to experience French culture right in the heart of Santiago.
Club de Lectores
Type of Class(es): Book Club and Literature Discussions
Location: Various locations in Santiago de los Caballeros
Joining a book club is a great way to practice your Spanish reading and comprehension skills. The Club de Lectores in Santiago de los Caballeros hosts regular meetings where members discuss literature, share insights, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow book lovers.
Centro de la Cultura de Santiago
Type of Class(es): Cultural and Artistic Workshops
Location: Calle Mella, Santiago de los Caballeros
The Centro de la Cultura de Santiago is a local institution that offers a variety of workshops in the arts and culture. These workshops are designed to be accessible to people of all language levels and provide a wonderful opportunity to engage with the local community.
Academia de Baile
Type of Class(es): Dance Classes
Location: Av. Juan Pablo Duarte, Santiago de los Caballeros
Dance is an integral part of Dominican culture, and taking dance classes is a fun way to stay active and connect with others. The Academia de Baile offers classes in popular Latin dance styles such as salsa, bachata, and merengue, which are sure to get your feet moving.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Dominican Rep
- Best Places to Live in Dominican Rep
- Real Estate in Dominican Rep
- Pros & Cons of Living in Dominican Rep
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to the Dominican Republic (Plus, Itineraries)
- Pros and Cons of Living in Dominican Rep 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Dominican Rep