Where to do divemaster in December in Coral Triangle

[apdz]

Hi all,

Title says it all. Just wondering where you would recommend to do a divemaster course, 3-4week time available, in late november-late-December, somewhere in the Coral Triangle for <900usd for the course + extras. Is this unrealistic? I am doing this to gain experience (seems like an economical way to dive) and a challenge. Not as a career move.

Seems Bali is not good in December?
Raja Ampat seems great in December but I cant find any divemaster courses (except one for >2000usd).
Friends advise against Thailand due to tourism and government.
Phillipines, Indonesia and PNG seem good but I seem to come across ridiculous prices online?
Borneo seemed great (800usd incl everything even 1month accomodation) but December is not a good time of year.

By the way... there's no need to pay for the extra materials as this is available online? Also I dont need to pay for the PADI licence unless I am about to start a job?

I am running out of time to book flights... I appreciate your thoughts.

Cheers.

 

[Centrals]

Late Nov to late Dec is the peak season in Philippines.
There are many places worth considering eg. Dumaguete, Malapascua, Moalboal and Puerto Galera.

Good luck.

 

[critterdiver]

Check out GoPro with a Smile - PADI Scuba Diving Careers - DMT IDC MSDT IDCSI in Philippines. Did my Open water all they way up to Instructor with them.