This summer, Puerto Rico is welcoming “salseros” from around the world to experience the rich heritage of music and dance at the Salsa World Congress in San Juan from July 24-29.

The week-long Congress – spanning the Condado Plaza Hilton and local San Juan restaurant Latin Roots – will feature everything from dancing demonstrations to concerts, culminating with a global competition.

Salsa is the most lively and influential musical genre in Puerto Rico.

During their visit to Puerto Rico, travelers can experience the history of the genre through La Ruta de la Salsa, a musically-guided tour highlighting the places and people that helped shape modern day salsa.

Launched in July of last year at the well-known salsa club, Nuyorican Café in Old San Juan, the experience was designed by local tour guide Clemente de Freitas to educate salsa lovers visiting the island in search of information on the music’s unique origins.

La Ruta de la Salsa consists of guided tour offerings year-round.

One route highlights historic Old San Juan, while a second route takes visitors through the bustling district of Santurce.

A third route, which launched on June 24, the National Day of Salsa, sings its way through Ponce.

— Dana Niland, CJ Contributor