Fun Classes for Expats Living in Luanda
Summary: Once you've arrived in Luanda, here are some classes to consider taking to help you meet people and get settled in to your new life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Luanda, finding engaging activities that cater to English speakers can be a delightful way to immerse oneself in the local culture while also meeting new people. Whether you're interested in enhancing your culinary skills, learning Portuguese, exploring the world of Angolan wines, or expressing yourself through art, there are classes available that can enrich your experience in this vibrant city. These classes not only offer a chance to learn something new but also provide a platform for socializing with fellow expats and locals alike. Here's a curated list of classes in Luanda that are suitable for English-speaking adults, even those who are still grasping the local language.
Luanda Cooking School
Type of Class(es): Angolan and International Cuisine Cooking Classes
Location: Central Luanda
Luanda Cooking School offers a variety of cooking classes that cater to both beginners and experienced cooks. The classes focus on Angolan cuisine as well as popular international dishes, providing a delicious way to learn about the country's culinary traditions and techniques. The hands-on approach ensures that even non-Portuguese speakers can follow along and enjoy the experience.
Centro Cultural Português
Type of Class(es): Portuguese Language Courses
Location: Av. de Portugal, Luanda
As part of the Camões Institute network, the Centro Cultural Português in Luanda offers Portuguese language courses for all levels. These classes are designed to help expats and digital nomads improve their language skills in a supportive environment, making daily interactions in Luanda more accessible and enjoyable.
Luanda Art Studio
Type of Class(es): Painting and Drawing Classes
Location: Ilha de Luanda
Luanda Art Studio provides a creative outlet for those looking to explore their artistic side. With classes in painting and drawing, participants can learn new techniques or refine their existing skills. The visual nature of art makes these classes enjoyable for English speakers who are still learning Portuguese, as art is a universal language in itself.
Angola Sommelier Association
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation Classes
Location: Various locations in Luanda
The Angola Sommelier Association offers wine tasting classes that introduce participants to the rich world of wines, including those produced in Angola's growing wine industry. These classes are a great way to learn about wine in a social setting, and they often include English-speaking instructors or materials.
Luanda Language School
Type of Class(es): English and Portuguese Language Courses
Location: Multiple locations in Luanda
Luanda Language School provides comprehensive language courses for those looking to improve their English or Portuguese. The school caters to a wide range of proficiency levels and offers a structured curriculum that can help expats and digital nomads communicate more effectively in their daily lives.
Angolan Cultural Workshop
Type of Class(es): Angolan Dance and Music Classes
Location: Downtown Luanda
Angolan Cultural Workshop is the perfect place for those interested in experiencing the vibrant local music and dance scene. Classes often include traditional Angolan dances such as Kizomba and Semba, and the rhythmic nature of these classes makes them accessible to non-Portuguese speakers.
Luanda Photography Club
Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops and Excursions
Location: Various locations in and around Luanda
The Luanda Photography Club offers workshops and guided excursions for photography enthusiasts of all levels. These activities provide an opportunity to capture the beauty of Luanda and its surroundings while learning from experienced photographers. Language barriers are minimal as the focus is on the visual aspects of photography.
Angola Cooking Adventures
Type of Class(es): Traditional Angolan Cooking Workshops
Location: Various locations in Luanda
Angola Cooking Adventures specializes in workshops that teach the art of traditional Angolan cooking. These workshops are a fun and interactive way to learn about local ingredients and cooking methods, and they often include English-speaking guides to help navigate the culinary experience.
Luanda Book Club
Type of Class(es): Literature Discussion Groups
Location: Various cafes and libraries in Luanda
The Luanda Book Club is a gathering of literature lovers who meet regularly to discuss a range of books, many of which are available in English. This is an excellent way for expats to connect with others through shared interests in reading and discussing literature.
Angolan Handicraft Workshop
Type of Class(es): Handicraft and Artisanal Crafts Classes
Location: Craft markets and studios across Luanda
Angolan Handicraft Workshop offers classes in traditional crafts such as basket weaving, pottery, and textile arts. These classes provide a hands-on approach to learning about Angolan culture and are suitable for English speakers as the focus is on the craft-making process.
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.