Azukarr is the newest Salsa club in Cancun — Photo courtesy of Azukarr

A visit to Cancun should always include a visit to a tropical nightclub, and you’re in luck because the former manager of the renowned salsa club, Azucar (closed) has just opened a brand new club, Azukarr. This is the newest, hottest place to dance salsa, merengue and bachata in the city.  None of these rhythms are actually from Mexico; salsa originated in Cuba and Puerto Rico and merengue and bachata are from the Dominican Republic, but these dances are all extremely popular in Cancun.

Azukarr is located in downtown Cancun — Photo courtesy of Azukarr

Azukarr is located in downtown Cancun across the street from Costco, above Banorte Bank. If you don’t know how to dance salsa, consider taking a couple of beginners classes at Salsa con “V,” located in the same building. Azukarr is open Thursday through Saturday and features live music.

On Thursdays and Fridays, a group made up of Mexican and Cuban members, Shugar Band, is featured. On Saturday night, Cuban group Jovenes Clasicos del Son plays. There are three sets of live music, and in between a DJ spins salsa, merengue and bachata favorites.

Musicians and owner Pepe Barba — Photo courtesy of Azukarr

If you’re ready for an unforgettable night with some serious salseros, take the R2 bus to the first downtown stop (8.50 pesos per person) then take a taxi to the club (about 25 pesos). Azukarr opens at 10 pm, but the live music starts around 12 am. If you want a table, it's best to make reservations. The cover charge is a reasonable 70 pesos for men and 50 pesos for women.