Scuba???

[alley]

Ok--I have been a avid swimmer for a while now and would really like to take up scuba. Anyone have suggestions or comments about their experiences. We have a local diver shop that I am thinking of contacting--or I could just go on vacation and take the certification course offered at some of the resorts, I don't know which would be better or more fun.

 

[chatolandia]

I heard that some vacation spots can be dangerous, especially in other countries. So be careful about where you go for the certification


A friend of mine did it here, which I found odd, but now I am considering it. So check the local place first.


I went to an University where you could get the certification for $100, and never did it!!!

 

[alley]

The diver shop organizes trips --so might be nice to have people you know going along---I'll have to call monday.

 

[chatolandia]

even if it's too expensive for you, it is a good starting point.

 

[looseliam]

Resident dive master here.

Go with a reputable shop with PADI instructors.

I suggest you get your own fins, mask, and BC. You can rent most else, but I'm one for having my own gear.

It's a lot of fun, even cold-water diving.

Any questions, ask away.

 

[jockboy01]

I would take the course at the dive shop. You can do your certification dives at the vacation spot. That's what I did.

As stated, just do your homework and make sure it is a reputable place.

It's fun, but I had a bad experience last year and haven't been since. I will again, but it won't be with the same person who has been doing it a lot longer. The key is to feel comfortable. And as a swimmer, it's hard at first b/c the mentality is different... it's a lot slower moving than swimming haha.

 

[alley]

I have done snorkeling around some reefs---so I think I'll like scuba---checking out the local shop when I get some extra time and money---thanks guys

 

[wraithsa]

My sister started a few years ago - her reason was she was shit scared of sharks n she is asthmatic and hates being told she can't do do something. She has done a few coarses now and I can't shut her up for weeks after she's been on a dive. And being in south africa has tons of great salt n frshwater sites in and close to country-she also has never been on a dive where she hasn't seen a shark ... The point I guess is that's its fun if ur keen go for it just make sure u go with a school thats safe n repuatble