Padi

[Guba]

Can we say, "amen" yet?
As you can see, Sigourneya, there seems to be some polarity to the issue. Any time it's brought up (and that seems to be WAY too often), discussions about PADI tend to gravitate toward two distinct camps. One is less than favorable about PADI and anything it offers. The other is a bit more charitable in the way it describes the organization.
Anzac65 summed it up pretty well. The PADI Diving Society is simply a way to reach divers. It is, basically, a magazine with newsletter overtones, but it's price is not incongruent with other dive magazines I take. As others stated, it's not necessary to join to keep your current certification, nor will it provide you with additional insurance or other benefits. In my opinion, you get almost exactly what you pay for. Yes, I have two of their little travel bags, and I'm waiting patiently for my windbreaker ("gifts" the offerr to join or re-join...yes, I know I paid for those gifts when I sent in my subscription fee, and I don't mind at all).
Bottom line...you now know what is offered and what it means. You are under no obligation of any sort. Decide for yourself.

 

[webjr]

*IF* you like reading, membership in PADI diving society includes a great magazine.
Coincidentaly, membership dues are about the same a sub to a good magazine.
If you like reading, just consider it a magazine subscription.
If not ,,,,,,,,
Just go dive.

 

[scubacoots3]

It is all up to you.

 

[lucybuykx]

In the UK you can purchase Sport Diver off the newsagent's shelf. It's next to Diver (by BSAC) and Diving (???).

That means you can trial the magazine and decide if a subscription at lower than retail prices is good for you.