INFORMATION FOR TANGO TOURISTS AND FOREIGNERS

Dear Tangero/a,

We have a growing tango scene in Hungary, with milongas on every day and a growing number of tango courses. The number of active tango dancers are between 300-700. We estimate the number of people who already studied argentine tango dancing between 5000- 10000.

We are very happy to see, that more and more people visit our milongas from far abroad. We also have a substantial number of foreign tangueros living and dancing here.

At our milongas people dance many styles, from canyengue to nuevo (we have some pretty adept stage dancers as well), close embrace and open embrance. Milonga DJs play classic and modern tangos as well, in set of tandas separated by cortinas. Most people dancing tango speak English, a few of them Spanish as well. All DJs/hosts speak English. SOme teachers are teaching their Argentine tango classes and guided practica in English too. Admission fee at the milongas are usually not paid at the beginning: you are expected to look for the host or DJ and pay the fee. Of course, the host will eventually go around the tables and ask for it, but don't wait for it. These milongas are low-budget ventures - room rental prices are high, nevertheless.

We usually have at least one tango concert or other performance each month, so check the "Events" page often! Be careful with buying tickets, as most performances (especially dance pieces) are fully sold-out weeks before the event.

If you need assistance in buying tickets for tango events or finding accomodation in Hungary, contact us! We will try to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How formal do I need to dress for the milongas?

Regular milongas are pretty casual and people wear street clothes. Special events, such as a Saturday night milonga during a workshop are a bit dressier.

Does cabeceo work in Budapest?

Please don't expect cabeceo (asking someone to dance by making eye contact) to always work. While some dancers here are aware of how it works, others aren't. While this may be unusual or intimidating, especially if you're a woman, it's best to walk up to the person and ask them. Most dancers speak English.

Are there tandas / cortinas?

All DJs play music in tandas of three or four songs; we do not, however, all play cortinas. Neither are you expected to clear the floor or change partners after each tanda, many people will dance two or three tandas with the same partner.

Is there a cover charge? Who do I pay to?

Yes, all of the milongas have an admission fee. These vary between HUF 1000-1500 (about EUR 4-5). Special event milongas could be more expensive. Please ask and pay the DJ/host when you arrive.

When should I get there?

Since all milongas finish early (by American and Western European standards), it's a good idea to arrive about half an hour after the start of the milonga.

Is there a class / practica before the milonga?

There is a class or practica before some milongas. Please check the 'milongas' menu for details.