I just recently acquired my OW certificate in New Jersey, which also meant that I got to do my check out dives at Dutch Springs, which is one of the neatest places I've ever seen so far, in terms of scuba diving. I was able to buy a 3/2 wetsuit (scuba max), fins (oceanic), a hood, a mask (cressi big eyes), a snorkel (although I've only used it during my classes. I like the regulator a lot better), boots (bare), and gloves, but not anything else since I don't have the budget for it at the moment.
While in New Jersey, I was able to rent my equipment from the LDS, and since they were also responsible for my certification and knew me fairly well, they gave me discounts, so I was able to continue. Unfortunatly, I'm moving back to school this Wednesday, which is in the center of Los Angeles. I've tried looking up information on clubs or groups in my area, and the closest I was able to find was Catalina Islands, which is not close at all, especially when the only transportation available is on the bus. For those who live in Los Angeles, you know how catastrophic the bus systems are!
So, it looks like my scuba diving adventures will have to put on hold for the time being, or until I can raise enough money to start buying more equipment. However, I'm still interested in learning all I can through reading if perhaps not through the actual diving, which is one reason why I joined up on the board. I can feel jealous about everyone who's going out while I'm stuck in the middle of the concrete city.
