Living it up, Latin style

If your exposure to Latin culture is limited to karaoke-style sing-alongs to Ricky Martin's "Livin' La Vida Loca," or worse, imitating his dance moves, it's time to revisit your game.

With Latin heartthrob Enrique Iglesias hitting the road with a nationwide tour this fall - arenas, believe it or not - the time seems right to celebrate Spanish-speaking cultures with a night of food, dance, and music.

Ease your way into it at Anna's Taqueria, which will satisfy even the pickiest burrito enthusiasts' palate. It may be a chain, but as many college students will tell you, Anna's is among the best affordable, no-nonsense Mexican eateries around. Try a quesadilla, burrito, or taco, and don't forget to add the Jumex Mexican Juice. (Anna's Taqueria, six locations including 242 Cambridge St. 617-227-8822. www.annastaqueria.com)

Give yourself time to digest, because you need to be ready to move at Mambos nightclub all-ages salsa night, held every Friday. For those of you who haven't dusted off your Gloria Estefan vinyl in a while, the club offers salsa lessons from 9:30 to 10:30 p.m. Then you're free to shake your bon bon until 1:30 a.m. Chris Zebo, owner of Mambos Entertainment, says to be prepared for a unique environment. "Regular clubs are kind of impersonal when the club-style dancing is involved," he says. "But when you go to a salsa club, you have to partner with someone, which is a big difference." (Cover $10, $15. Mambos, 306 Stuart St. 617-368-0185. www.mambos entertainment.com)

Once back at your respective apartments or dorm rooms, unwind by creating your own Latin playlist. Esteban and Shakira can provide some ear candy, but you should also check out El Canto del Loco, a power pop band from Spain. Zebo also recommends Protagonistas de la Salsa, a group that you'll probably hear at his club.

Even if you don't think Latin music is your thing, give it a chance. Enrique won't be touring forever.

Jeff Miranda is a fourth-year student at Northeastern University. He can be reached at mrjeff miranda@gmail.com.