Caribbean rhythms thrive in the Swedish city often compared to New York or London for its multicultural flair.
ANDRÉS BARRENECHEA, 02/05/2025
Oihana Olasagasti is a Spanish-Colombian student pursuing her master’s degree on International Migration and Ethnic Relations at Malmö University. She believes the city is the perfect match for her studies.
“It’s a truly multicultural place. When you walk down the streets of Malmö, you’re likely to encounter several languages before you hear any Swedish,” she says.
Oihana points out that migration flows over the decades have helped define Malmö’s identity:
“This city is good at adopting the best parts of the cultures they welcome, and the popularity of salsa is a great example of that”
“You can find at least 4 spots to dance salsa or bachata any given week,” she says. “They are parties, but not for getting drunk. You’re there to dance”
But for her, salsa is more than just music; it’s a way of connecting people.
“Everyone’s welcome, it doesn’t matter where you’re from or even if you’re good at it”
She still remembers the first time she attended one of these events: “Total strangers meeting up just to dance… In that moment, I knew I had to learn”.
Now, Oihana never misses her weekly salsa class in Malmö.
This story is for an international audience with an interest in culture, travel, and multicultural cities, and could be published on BBC Travel (bbc.com/travel)