Some heuristics
Cuban
Comes from Cuba, movement is more circular. The dance/music are alternatively referred to as Timba/Casino.
Popular song in 2026
Example dance
Example areas where this is the dominant style
San Francisco, Cuba, Barcelona
Linear
Comes from Puerto Ricans in New York ("Nuyorican"). Variations include On-1/On-2/LA. Also called "salsa linea"
Popular song in 2026
Example dance
Example areas where this is the dominant style
New York, Seoul, Germany
Cali
Comes from the eponymous city in Colombia
Popular song in 2026
Example dance
Example areas where this is the dominant style
Colombia