My name is Zach, I was born and raised in Utah in the mountains about as far from the ocean as you can get but due to many trips to California as a child and having lived near Tampa FL for a while a couple years ago I have fallen in love with the ocean and I am hoping to get into diving. First though I'd like to find out what the best route is as far as getting certified and whether or not to get my own gear. I really don't know anything but I'm doing my research as of now and just thought I'd see what some experienced divers had to say. Any tips, comments, advice, etc. about how to get into this awesome hobby is much appreciated! Currently living in Germany but will be most likely living in Florida again in a few years.