The trip began Thursday evening as my mom and I set out on our twelve hour Megabus ride to downtown ATL. I know, you are probably wondering, "why the heck would you Megabus it to ATL from DC when flights are quicker and more comfortable?" Though it would have been much easier to fly, I chose Megabus because it fit my budget. The round trip was $100 even.
Early Friday afternoon, after changing buses in Charlotte, NC, we arrived at the Civic Center MARTA station located along Peachtree Street in downtown ATL. We made our way to our lodging at the Hotel ATL, located a brisk ten minute walk from the bus station at the corner of Spring and Baker Streets. Though the Congress was being held at the Hyatt right up the street from Hotel ATL, I chose here because it was just as nice as the Hyatt, but a more compromising price. For two nights, Mom and I split the $150 total.
After checking in and getting settled, we headed out to explore the town. We walked East along Peachtree Street past numerous restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe and Hooter's, the Mall at Peachtree Center, and many visually stimulating structures and attractions as well as shops and dining. We ended up at the Underground ATL. There we found your typical, inexpensive, working class friendly shops. I was able to pick out a cute outfit for the evening's dancing at a little boutique called Bonnie's. After lunch in the food court, Mom needed to stop by the Computer store, so we rode the MARTA (ATL's metro system) as well the Georgia Tech Trolley to arrive at our destination. 
Upon returning to the room, and after resting for awhile, Mom and I grabbed dinner at a Sushi spot. After dinner, we parted ways for the evening as I made my way to the real fun, the Salsa Congress. Friday evening opened with wonderful performances by many local and out of town, talented dancers! A night full of live music, dancing, and socializing followed the performances. I stayed out as late as I could, but made sure I got to bed early enough to rest up for more dancing the next day.
Saturday morning started with a scrumptious, filling, continental breakfast courtesy of the hotel. This gave me plenty of energy as I would need it to take full advantage of the day's workshop options. One of the perks about these Congresses is the opportunity to take dance classes from top instructors and performers from around the nation. I arrived at the Hyatt around noon to attend as many workshops as I could fit in. My favorite class was conducted by Jay Stylz out of Dallas, TX and Leah Patterson, my new Salsera friend out of Arkansas. They taught a very informative Bachata footwork class that I really enjoyed.
After dinner and another trip to the Underground for another cute outfit for the evening, I made my way to the Hyatt for my last evening at the 2012 Hotlanta Congress. Not only did I get to dance the night away, I shared many dances, laughs, and stories with new Salsero friends that I plan to revisit with for more Salsa adventures. I met people from all over, like DJ Stephen Greene from Richmond, VA. There's Luther from New Jersey and Kelley from Salsa Essence Dance Academy out of West Palm Beach, FL. These people will be in my memories for as long as I am a Salsera! Though I didn't realize it at the time, through facebook research (or stalking, whatever term you prefer) I became acquainted with Paso Fino Dance Academy, the hosts and hometown Salseros at Hotlanta. 
Sunday, our last day in ATL involved less dancing and more site seeing. We had a few hours before our bus left, so Mom and I made the eight minute walk from our hotel to where the Aquarium, Coke World, and Centennial Park is located. Upon arriving just outside the Aquarium, we ran into a Congero named Anthony. The heavens above must have read my desires because when we set out Friday afternoon to explore, all I wanted to find was someone on the streets playing Congas. Anthony was very insightful and inspiring and both Mom and I felt it was more fate than luck that we ran into him. I took the opportunity to freestyle to our new friend's music. It was a very memorable, humbling experience. After parting ways with Mr. Conga man, Mom and I were gonna stroll the Aquarium, but we felt it was a little over budget. Mom had toured the Coke World the day before while I was attending workshops. She enjoyed the history, facts, and tasting the coke products, however, she felt there could have been more freebies considering the obvious message of, drink Coke presented to the public. Before heading to the bus to make our way home, we had lunch at a place called Stats, a sports bar about a mile from the Falcon's stadium. This particular Sunday the Carolina Panthers were in town, which made for an entertaining game.
I had such a wonderful time in ATL as a learning Salsera. My experience at Hotlanta makes me more anxious and excited for Congresses to come.
Was great meeting you too hun!
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