| You are finally an officially certified diver and you | | | | Research the local dive shops or scuba tour groups |
| can't wait to travel to an amazing scuba diving | | | | you will use. Ask for referrals before booking |
| location. How do you begin to plan the trip? Instead | | | | anything! Try to arrange discounts on rental gear for |
| of simply writing a check and telling a travel agent to | | | | reserving several boat dives. Ask for advice on what |
| book something for you, why not build your very | | | | dive spots are appropriate for your level of scuba |
| own adventure from scratch? | | | | certification. |
| Select a location known for great diving. With your | | | | Find out what lodging options fit your budget and |
| budget in mind, decide how far you can afford to fly | | | | style. Ask about scuba packages that may be |
| or drive. Whether driving to a nearby beach resort | | | | available at a preferred rate. Find out if any units |
| area or flying to a different hemisphere, you'll need | | | | have kitchens so that you can save money by |
| to spend some time learning about your destination. | | | | preparing a few meals on your own. |
| Discuss locations with the dive staff or club members | | | | You will of course spend a good deal of your |
| from the shop or school where you received your | | | | vacation above sea level, so find a resort or condo |
| certification. Divers love to brag about their scuba | | | | that also has fun recreational amenities. Depending on |
| exploits and can supply a mountain of information. | | | | your interests, look for great golf courses or tennis |
| Will you take your personal dive equipment or use | | | | courts. Find out if there are bikes or kayaks for rent. |
| rental gear on location? Bringing all of the gear is | | | | Is the beach secluded or teeming with families? |
| really only practical if you are driving; it is simply | | | | Check to see if there is a grocery store close by so |
| easier and more convenient to let the local dive shop | | | | that you can stock your kitchen with snacks. |
| outfit you in another country. The only supplies you | | | | With the planning finished, now you can savor the |
| will need from home are your certification card, a | | | | anticipation of an exciting scuba diving holiday on the |
| dive log, and maybe your own mask. Don't let a | | | | horizon. To build confidence, sign up for a refresher |
| leaking mask ruin an otherwise perfect dive | | | | course at the dive school if it has been a long time |
| opportunity! | | | | since your last dive. Have a great trip! |