Dive Master Requirements

[Pax]

So at age 50 I decided to take on the DM course (that which does not kill you makes you stronger philosophy). Where is the best place to take it. I am out here on the west coast of BC and the "coldwater" centres suggest taking the course here as it well make you a better DM and you can dive anywhere. The "warmwater" centres suggest to do it in Florida keys, Thailand etc as these venues provide a more "friendlier environment (can concentrate on learning as opposed to dealing with issues like viz, coldwater and bulky drysuit). I know I there will be many differnt comments but I guess this is what this forum is about...

[SCUBA411]

Pax,
IMHO I think the answer really depends on what you are going to do with the CERT. If it is primarily for experience and making you are better diver, and the majority of your diving is going to be in your home stomping grounds, the I would take it at the LDS. On the other hand if your interested in turning it into an avocation when you retire in some warm tropical paradise then I would take it in places like the Caribean, Thailand or Philippines. This will give you the opportunity to experience the life style (without commiting to it). I think you can find quality instruction in just about any location. I hope this helps.

[www.scubacat.com]

I cant recommend Thailand highly enough and there is not much cold water there either (their high season is from Nov - March approximately)

[samtihen]

So at age 50 I decided to take on the DM course (that which does not kill you makes you stronger philosophy). Where is the best place to take it. I am out here on the west coast of BC and the "coldwater" centres suggest taking the course here as it well make you a better DM and you can dive anywhere. The "warmwater" centres suggest to do it in Florida keys, Thailand etc as these venues provide a more "friendlier environment (can concentrate on learning as opposed to dealing with issues like viz, coldwater and bulky drysuit). I know I there will be many differnt comments but I guess this is what this forum is about...

Maybe I'm just weak, but I'd much rather dive in a warm, tropical location. Will you end up less prepared as a diver? Probably. Will you be warm and happy on a beach with a beer in hand? Probably.

[The Publisher]

Same here Samtihen, ...I dive tropical exclusively now as I am spoiled!