DM in Bali or Manado (North Sulawesi)?

[JustineK]

Hi all,

I am looking for a place to get my Divemaster certification this summer for 2-3 months. I have pretty much narrowed it down to Bali (Blue Season Divers or Aquamarine) or Manado (Bastianos Bunaken Diving Resort).

I am looking for :
1) an excellent program
2) excellent diving
3) an ineresting location/dive operation with other westerners to socialize with

Any suggestions?

North Sulawesi sounds like it has excellent diving, but I think Bali could be more fun, in terms of things to do/see. I am not looking for nightlife/clubbing, but a busy place with young travelers would be a plus!

thanks,

Justine

 

[AlanWald]

Be sure to apply in advance at an Indonesian Embassy or Consulate and get a 60 day visa rather than getting a 30 day non-extendable Visa on Arrival (some say there are ways to extend in the country, others fly at great expense to Davao or Singapore and then fly back to Indonesia). I just returned from Manado yesterday and there are rumors that there may be a 60 day option on the visa on arrival. In any case consult with the dive center.

Excellent fares can be had sometimes by booking directly with Singapore Airlines. they fly to Bali and their subsidiary SilkAir flies to Manado. I paid US$1123 for a March to April ticket (low season, mid-week, with stop at Narita, Tokyo's Airport, you will pay more for a non-stop, the one stop LAX to Narita to Singapore is better because you get an hour off the plane at Narita. Nice to have space)

 

[fiksuviksu]

Hi Justine,

i am planning a trip very similar to yours! considering the same places, the same time of travel and even some of the same diveshops to do my DM!
been researching this trip for a while and seem to be stuck on deciding where in indonesia would be best (and today i added Cebu in the Philippines as a possible destination - which will not help me make a decision).
just like you, im am pondering whether i want to go to a more secluded area with better diving or kuta in bali... i want a fun and relaxed atmosphere but without the crowds. also, im a lone female traveller so looking for a safe and friendly place.

does anyone have any suggestions? cebu, bali or northern sulawesi - which one do you recommend for diving as well as just having a fun relaxing time?

Justine, please let me know what info you find out and what you decide. perhaps we will end up in the same diveshop....

/Vicky

 

[mor1703]

Hi Justine,
I think you'll find Bunaken Marine National Park, one of the most beautiful
places in the world to dive.

I recommend you to get the DM at Bastianos Dive Resort. You can see the details at : http://www.bastianos.com


Cheers

Mor