Dance in Paradise
Bellydance & Dance Fitness with Angel and Samira
April 17–23, 2027
7 days at Dreams Macao Beach Resort & Spa, Punta Cana, DR
There's a moment in every dancer's life when they realize they need more than another weekend workshop.
They need space. They need time. They need to step away from the routine of daily life and step fully into their body — to train deeply, learn something new, and remember why they fell in love with this dance in the first place.
Now imagine doing that at a gorgeous resort in the Caribbean — a tropical sanctuary set right on the beach where azure pools meet the sea, with multiple restaurants, swim-up bars, and a serene spa. No cooking, no planning, no responsibilities. Just you, your dance, and an entire week to grow.
Dance in Paradise brings together two powerhouse instructors for seven days of bellydance, progressive dance conditioning, Latin-Fusion, fitness, tropical adventure, and the kind of joy that only happens when dancers gather somewhere extraordinary with no agenda but to move, learn, and connect.
This Retreat Is For You If…
✓ You want to expand your bellydance repertoire and Latin, Reggaeton, and contemporary fusion styles — taught by a dancer who is from and who has actually lived and performed in that world
✓ You want to understand your body better — not just follow along, but learn why you train the way you do, so you can keep getting stronger long after you get home
✓ You've been craving a real reset — the kind where someone else handles the meals, the logistics, and the details, and you just show up and dance
✓ You've always wanted to stay at a stunning beach-side resort — and now you have a reason
✓ You love performing and want to leave with stage-ready techniques and dynamic new combos
✓ You're drawn to meaningful travel with fellow dancers — the kind that builds friendships, not just photo albums (although, there will be photos, gorgeous!)
✓ You want to feel — mind, body, spirit — as good as your dancing looks: stronger, more aligned, more fluid
Your Week
Day 1: Arrive in Paradise
Travel day. Fly into Punta Cana and let the included transfer whisk you to Dreams Macao Beach — 40-minutes from the airport, yet a world away from everything. Settle into your suite, explore the grounds, dip into one of the pools, and meet your fellow dancers over dinner. The week begins.
Days 2–3: Train, Dance, Explore
Mornings with Samira. Afternoons with Angel. In between — Punta Cana’s beautiful beaches, the infinity pool, the spa, or simply a quiet corner with a good book and the sound of the Caribbean. Your first two days establish the rhythm of the week: condition your body in the morning, shimmy and sway in the afternoon.
Day 4: Excursion Day
No classes. A full day to explore as you like. This ocean paradise offers many excursions for you to choose from, or simply enjoy the incredible activities and spa already included at our resort.
Days 5–6: Train, Dance, Explore
Back in the studio. By now your body is adapting, your movement vocabulary is expanding, and you're settling into the deep work that only happens when you have this much uninterrupted time to train. The final conditioning and belly dance workshops bring the week's journey full circle.
Day 7: Departure
Hugs, tears (the happy kind), exchange of numbers, and a promise to keep practicing those combos. Head home with a stronger body, new choreography, expanded skills, and memories that will fuel your dancing for months.
Your Daily Rhythm
Your days follow a rhythm designed to balance deep training with deep rest.
Mornings begin with Samira's dance conditioning workshops — but these aren't ordinary workouts. Each session opens with education: you'll learn why an exercise works, what's happening in your body, and how it connects to what you do on the dance floor. Then you put that knowledge to work. By the end of the week, you won't just be stronger — you'll understand your body and your mind-body connection in a way that changes how you train from now on.
After breakfast and generous free time — Macao Beach ocean, infinity pool, the spa and its hydrotherapy circuit, a walk through the gardens, or simply your suite's balcony with a coffee and the Caribbean breeze.
The afternoon belongs to Angel. Her belly dance and fusion workshops are dynamic, joyful, and guaranteed to make you sweat. Each day is a different style, a different rhythm, a different piece of your dance to discover. Angel will bring the smiles. Bring your towel.
Evenings are for dinner together, laughter, conversations that go deeper than you expected, and the kind of relaxed connection that happens when a group of supportive, positive dancers share something special.
No two days feel the same. But every day feeds your dance.
Your Instructors
Angel Bellydance
Angel is a classically trained dancer whose career has spanned Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Modern, Hip Hop, Latin Dance, Flamenco, and Bellydance. She began her professional career at 17 and has taught and performed across New York City, Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, Argentina, and beyond.
For 15 years, she performed with "Juan Carlos and His Latin Traditions" — the longest-running show in Latin America — while continuing her training at Broadway Dance Center in NYC under world-renowned instructors. Her performance career extends to international TV commercials, television, and Latin music videos with major artists including Don Omar, Calle 13, Zion y Lennox, and more.
Angel teaches master classes at renowned festivals worldwide, including the Orlando Bellydance Convention, Bellydance.Vegas, Migrations, FEIDAC of Argentina, Art of the Belly, and many more. Her workshops are known for their infectious energy, warmth, and the joy she brings to every room. She currently teaches in-person classes in Orlando, FL, and online classes to students across the globe.
Samira Shuruk
Samira brings 40 years of teaching fitness and movement and 25 years as a professional bellydancer to this retreat.
Her movement education began at the University of Connecticut in a program rooted in jazz dance, modern dance, Buddhist meditation, improvisational movement, somatic practice, and Pilates — a lineage tracing back to Jerome Robbins and Joseph and Clara Pilates. For the last two and a half decades, her teaching focus has centered on Pilates and mobility work with an emphasis on cultivating vitality and prolonged quality of life. She is also a distinguished cultural dance artist specializing in SWANA and Indian dance forms, performing for audiences ranging from intimate celebrations and large Arab nightclubs, to royalty, diplomats, and concert halls.
Since 2017, Samira has led international wellness retreats in Morocco, Kenya, Costa Rica, and more. Her certifications include ACE Group Fitness Instructor, Sports Conditioning Coach, Behavioral Change Specialist, Stretch to Win Life-Stretch Instructor, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and Trauma-informed Somatic Movement Specialist.
Samira's Morning Series: Dance Conditioning
A progressive 4-day journey through the body, designed specifically for dancers.
These aren't just workouts — they're education. Each session begins with explanation and technique so you understand why you're training your body a certain way, how specific exercises connect to what you do on the dance floor, and what's actually happening in your body when you execute a movement. Then you put that knowledge into practice with a targeted workout. You'll leave each class both smarter about your body and stronger in it.
Day 1 — Foundation: Feet, Balance & Weight Shift We begin where all great dance begins — at the ground. Why do some dancers look effortlessly stable while others struggle? This workshop breaks down the mechanics of your feet, your balance, and the science of weight shift that powers everything from smooth traveling steps to controlled spins and relevé. You'll learn why certain habits help (and others sabotage) your technique, and then you'll drill those principles into your body.
Day 2 — Core: Abs, Glutes & Back Your core is the engine of your bellydance — but do you know which muscles are actually firing during your isolations, your shimmies, your undulations? This session educates you on the deep abdominals, glutes, and back muscles that drive your movement, explains how they work together (and what happens when they don't), and then puts you through a targeted workout that lights them up.
Day 3 — Carriage: Back, Posture, Arms & Head This is where your dance starts to look "professional." Why does good posture look effortless on some dancers? What's actually happening in your back, shoulders, and neck when your arms look graceful versus stiff? We'll break down the anatomy and mechanics, then work through targeted exercises for back strength, postural alignment, arm styling, and intentional head placement.
Day 4 — Flow: Fascia Release, Stretching & Fluidity After three days of building strength and understanding, this session introduces fascia release and stretching techniques that help your body move with the fluidity and ease that makes bellydance mesmerizing. You'll learn what fascia is, why it matters for dancers, and how releasing it changes the quality of your movement. This class invites you to soften, lengthen, and let your body express all of the work you've done throughout the week.
Angel's Afternoon Series: Bellydance Fusion Workshops
Four dynamic workshops that expand your dance vocabulary and your stage presence.
Drum Solo Technique and Combos Stage-ready drum solo techniques you can perform tomorrow
Angel teaches elements from her successful and exciting drum solos—a perfect blend of "basic" to "challenging" to "unique movements" utilizing a variety of rhythms and speeds. These combos and techniques can be adapted for small spaces and large stages alike. Get plenty of rest before this one — it's a roller coaster ride!
Latin Bellydance Fusion Bring the FIESTA to your Bellydance!
Angel teaches essential steps in Latin Dance, then fuses them into a sassy Bellydance combo. You'll also learn to identify the Latin rhythms used — because identifying rhythms in Latin dance is just as important as in bellydance. Expect elegant posture, sharp isolations, clean arm stylizations, shimmies, traveling steps, drills, and combos. Latin rhythms covered include Salsa, Cha-Cha-Cha, Merengue, Rumba, Samba, and more.
Oriental Love Song Leave your heart on the dance floor
Express romantic feelings through a beautiful blend of Bellydance technique with elements of Lyrical and Contemporary dance. This workshop is the perfect opportunity to leave your heart all over the dance floor while leaving a piece of your soul in the hearts of your audience.
Reggaeton-Bellydance Fusion From a dancer who's REALLY been in the reggaeton videos
Take it from a dancer who was actually cast in multiple reggaeton videos for artists including Don Omar, Calle 13, Tego Calderon, and more. Did you know reggaeton has its own rhythm nearly identical to a popular one in raks sharki? Angel shares her unique take on fusing bellydance into the worldwide rhythm of Reggaeton. Expect dynamic combos, strengthening drills, cultural history, rhythm identification, and a whole lot of sweating and smiles.
Angel and Samira may or may not be plotting something spectacular.
Details coming soon.
Just know: you'll want to pack something fabulous.
Where You'll Stay
Dreams Macao Beach sits on Playa Macao, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic — a gorgeous crescent cove of golden sand and turquoise water, set apart from the more crowded resort strips of Punta Cana.
Your Unlimited-Luxury® stay means everything is included. Nine restaurants — six à la carte (French, Asian with teppanyaki, Italian, Mexican, seafood, and a seaside grill), a buffet, a beachfront grill, and a café. Seven bars and lounges serving top-shelf spirits, including a swim-up pool bar. No reservations required, no wristbands, no worrying about the bill. 24-hour room service is included too, because sometimes you want dessert at midnight in your bathrobe.
Your spacious suite features a private furnished balcony or terrace with garden or ocean views, a bathroom with rainfall shower and soaking tub, and a daily refreshed mini-bar.
Between classes, your options are endless: multiple pools including a beachfront infinity pool, the Dreams Spa by Pevonia® with its hydrotherapy circuit (cold plunge, steam room, sauna, therapeutic showers, whirlpool, and cascade pool), tennis courts, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, beach volleyball, live nightly entertainment, theme nights, and of course that stunning beach.
Upgrade to the Preferred Club for an elevated experience. Preferred Club guests enjoy all of the above plus exclusive extras: a private adults-only saltwater pool, a private beach section with its own bar and food service, access to a private lounge with daily continental breakfast, afternoon hors d'oeuvres and fine liquors, an exclusive restaurant for breakfast and lunch, butler service, upgraded bath amenities and pillow menu, an in-room tablet, upgraded mini-bar and room service menu, plus personalized check-in and checkout. Preferred Club suites are in premium locations with oceanfront and oceanview options available.
Traveling with a partner or friend who doesn't dance? They'll never run out of things to do. While you're in the studio with Angel and Samira, they can snorkel, lounge poolside with a cocktail, get a massage at the spa, play tennis, explore the beach, or do absolutely nothing at all. At dinner, you'll reunite with stories to swap. This resort was made for that.
Guest Testimonials
"Angel is very engaging, positive, and talented. She always has a new dance move to teach, which greatly enhances her students' abilities. She not only teaches belly dance but also dances from other cultures with beautiful Latin fusions."
Terri, Weekly Student and Workshop Participant (Angel)
"Angel's classes are such a unique and special experience every time! Not only will you learn about the culture and the history of the dance, class is just full of laughter and lively energy! Her classes are the place to be, no matter what kind of day you are having. Her high energy, fun-filled personality, and beautiful combos and choreographies will get you out of your head and into your body! I cannot recommend her classes enough!!"
K Book, Weekly Student (Angel)
"You're the first teacher I've had who explains things enough. I finally feel like I understand my body more, and I am getting it right."
Leslie, weekly student (Samira)
"I would travel with you anywhere. You are an incredible guide and a wonderful teacher."
Liz, Morocco & Tunisia guest, and weekly student (Samira)
"I knew it was going to be amazing, but from start to finish you have far exceeded my high expectations, yet again!" Sue, Morocco & Kenya guest (Samira)
The Investment
7 days at Dreams Macao Beach, all-inclusive. Every workshop, every meal, every drink, every accommodation, every transfer. See full details in FAQs.
Summer early bird rate through July 31
All-inclusive, starting at $3000 USD per person, double occupancy, $4000 USD single occupancy
Back to school early bird rate through August 1 - October 15
All-inclusive, starting at $3400 per person, double occupancy, $4400 single occupancy
October 16 - February
All-inclusive, starting at $3700 per person, double occupancy, $4700 single occupancy
$500 reserves your place | Payment plans are available | Reserve your place now
Select your room below
Choose your occupancy and reserve your place
limited spaces available
Bellydance Retreat FAQs
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This is an intimate small-group retreat with a maximum of 25 guests
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Includes:
6 nights / 7 days accommodations at Dreams, Macao Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
All meals daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner) at Macao’s restaurants
4 bellydance workshops with Angel Bellydance
4 dance conditioning workshops with Samira Shuruk
Studio/class space for all workshops
All on-site activities included
A free-time day to choose excursions or spa (add-on activies) or to fully enjoy all your inclusions
Airport transfers to/from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
Pre-retreat Zoom orientation meeting and preparation booklet
Taxes and tips on your stay
Excludes:
International airfare
Travel insurance (required)
Preferred Club amenities (available as upgrade)
Personal shopping and souvenirs
Spa treatments at Dreams Macao Beach (optional — and highly recommended!)
Excursions
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Angel’s dance workshops will be intermediate to advanced.
Samira's conditioning is adaptable to all levels.
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Mornings begin with Samira's dance conditioning workshop — part education, part workout. After breakfast, you have free time to enjoy Punta Cana’s pristine beaches, infinity pool, the spa, or simply explore and rest. Afternoons bring Angel's bellydance fusion workshop. Evenings are for dinner together at one of Dream’s restaurants and relaxing with your fellow dancers. One full day is dedicated to a free-choice time or activities with no classes.
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All classes and activities are optional. If you need a rest day, take one! If your travel companion wants to sleep in and skip morning class, that's perfectly fine. Dreams Macao Beach has plenty to enjoy even without a single class.
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Dreams Macao Beach world-class amenities, beaches, spa, restaurants, and nearby attractions make this very doable for partners who want to enjoy the resort while the dancer takes class.
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Single and double occupancy options are available across a range of suite categories.
All suites at Dreams Macao Beach are spacious (starting at 603 sq. ft.and larger, and include a private furnished balcony or terrace, a bathroom with rainfall shower and soaking tub, double vanity, daily refreshed mini-bar, 24-hour room service, and free WiFi.
Junior Suites are available in three view options: Pool View, Partial Ocean View, and Ocean View.
Preferred Club Junior Suites are available in four options: Tropical View, Partial Ocean View, Ocean View, and Swim-Out (with direct pool access from your private terrace).
Preferred Club guests enjoy all the standard suite amenities plus exclusive extras: a private adults-only saltwater pool, a private beach section with its own bar and food service, a private lounge serving daily continental breakfast, afternoon hors d'oeuvres and fine liquors, an exclusive Preferred Club restaurant for breakfast and lunch, butler service, upgraded bath amenities, pillow menu, an in-room tablet, upgraded mini-bar and room service menu, and personalized check-in and checkout.Preferred Club Master Suites (1,205 sq. ft., adults only) offer the ultimate upgrade and include all Preferred Club benefits plus a separate living room, dining area, fully equipped kitchenette, and whirlpool tub. Available in Ocean View, Ocean Front, Roof Top (with private rooftop terrace, hot tub, and sun loungers), and Swim-Out options.
If you'd like to travel double occupancy but don't have a roommate in mind, please contact us before registering.
See the registration page for full pricing by room category.
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Your Unlimited-Luxury® stay includes unlimited dining at nine restaurants — no reservations required, no extra charges. Choose from six à la carte restaurants (French, Italian, Mexican, Asian with teppanyaki show cooking, seafood, and a seaside grill), an international buffet, a beachfront grill, and a café with fresh pastries and espresso drinks available around the clock. Seven bars and lounges serve unlimited top-shelf cocktails, beer, and wine throughout the day and evening, including a swim-up pool bar and a beach bar. 24-hour room service is also included.
The resort accommodates common dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. We recommend speaking with your server or the restaurant captain about specific food allergies so they can guide your meal. We'll include more details in your pre-retreat booklet.
Preferred Club guests enjoy additional dining perks: an exclusive Preferred Club restaurant for breakfast and lunch, a private lounge serving daily continental breakfast, afternoon hors d'oeuvres, desserts, and fine liquors, plus a private beach section where food and drinks are brought directly to you.
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Your pre-retreat booklet will include a detailed packing list. At minimum: comfortable dance/workout clothing, an exercise mat, water bottle, a swimsuit, sunscreen, and shoes appropriate for class. We will share more details in our online meeting.
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We offer several ways to pay, so you can choose what works best for you.
Pay in full at any time and you're all set.
Pay in two installments: Submit your reservation fee to hold your spot, then pay the remaining balance by the deadline for your rate tier.
Payment plan: Submit your reservation fee, then spread your balance over monthly payments beginning one month after your deposit. A 4% interest fee applies to the total balance.
Rate Tiers
Summer Early Bird — Starting at $3000. Reservation fee by July 31, 2026. Balance due by September 1, 2026.
Back to School Early Bird — Starting at $3400. Reservation fee between August 1 and October 15, 2026. Balance due by December 1, 2026.
Regular Rate — Starting at $3700. Reservation fee October 16, 2026 or after. Balance due by March 1, 2027.
The earlier you register, the better rate you lock in. All payment plans must be completed by their respective balance deadline. Late registrations after March 1, 2027 are subject to availability and require payment in full.
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Retreat Dates: April 17–23, 2027 Airport: Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) Transfer time: Approximately 40 minutes from the airport to Dreams Macao Beach. Airport transfers are included.
April 17 — Arrival day
April 23 — Departure day
PUJ is one of the busiest international airports in the Caribbean, with direct flights from most major US cities.
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All international retreats are subject to a $500 non-refundable reservation fee.
Full cancellation details are in the Terms and Waiver, which you agree to when you make your first payment. -
Joyful, supportive, down-to-earth, and energizing. Both Angel and Samira are known for creating warm, welcoming environments filled with love, laughter, and serious dance training. Come ready to work hard, play hard, and make lifelong dance friendships.
You'll return home dancing bigger, stronger, and freer than you arrived.
New choreography in your muscle memory. A deeper understanding of your body. Fusion skills you didn't have before. And the kind of joy that only comes from a week spent dancing at the edge of the Caribbean with people who get it.
Member of the Transformational Travel Council
