Yep while we do have bigger snow fields than the Swiss Alps we are very lax in altitude (just over 2000m is the highest mountain) and only have a short season. As for the beard it works great keeping the sun off
Looking at the end of 08 start of 09 for a trip. Probably out of S. America as its the shortest travel so more time down there but a hell of a long trip from here to there to start it.
Any envirnomentally sealed cold water reg should work as long as you dont breath off it before your in the water.
Yep i was thinking whiskey but i dont think it would be warm enough and i would like to be able to remember the diving. Drysuits dry gloves dry hoods and a FFM might be the way to go as the water is a balmy -2 degrees C
Matt