amateur here... What is the difference between an American cha-cha and Latin cha-cha? Also, why do I see cha-chas counted in so many different ways? And which way is correct?

Surprised that no one has responded to you. I'll take a shot at it. I only dance the American version, but my wife has danced Latin.

The major difference between Latin and American ChaCha is the method of doing "Cuban Motion", or hip motion. In American rhythm dances, Cuban Motion is achieved by bending the knee and moving your weight onto that leg. This weight change causes your hip to swivel towards the bent leg. In Latin, hip motion is achieved by straight leg movement. As far as steps go, I believe that the majority of steps are acceptable in both methods.

Now as far as counting goes, in both American and Latin ChaCha, the dance begins on the second beat. To get started, most beginners take a side step on the first beat and then go into the first step. So for example, the gentleman's part would be: side step with the left leg on beat one, back rock with the right leg on beat 2, forward rock with the left leg on beat 3, do a quick right left right on beat 4 and 1 (the "cha cha cha") to the side, forward rock with the left leg on beat 2, etc.

This method results in, what I believe is, the most common counting pattern of 2-3-4 and 1, where the 4 and 1 is the three step chachacha. OR, as some teachers teach the count as 1-2-3-4 and 1, to help the dancer start correctly.

Waynelee, thank you for taking the time to answer! So if I understand on the counting correctly, we start the dance on a beat 2, because the last of the three 'cha chas' falls on beat 1,and it's too hard to start that way. Right?
I've heard people count it three ways:

1 2 3 cha cha cha 2 3 cha cha cha (saying 'cha' three times)
OR
cha cha 1 2 3 cha cha 1 2 3 (saying 'cha' only two times)
OR
1 2 3 4 & 1 2 3 4 & 1 2 3 4 & 1 (not saying 'cha' at all)

Sounds like all three of these are correct, as long as the three quicker steps are done on beat 4, the 1/2 beat '&', and beat 1, no matter how you 'say' the counts. correct?

I would love confirmation on this. Also, if anyone else wants to chime in, I'm all ears! :)