Where to take a divemaster course in the world?

[scubawe]

Hi,

I've been backpacking for a while now. Also being an Advanced Open Water diver with over 100 dives, I started thinking about resting in one place for a couple of months and doing a divemaster course and maybe even continue to instruction lateron.

What places would you recommend (in the world) for this?

Atmosphere in the location, dive sights interest, dive clubs level and other factors are important.

Please consider that I'd much prefer to be able to pay for the course by the commitment to work in the place. I would also prefer to find a place where the salary (or pocket money) would be enough for supporting myself.

Also mention if a work permit is neccessary for an arrangement that includes lodging and course in return for work.

Thanks a lot

 

[El Orans]

How about Thailand?

 

[Diver0001]

I would think that where ever you plan on working or starting to work as a DM is the right place to take it. Some places will certify you very quickly and get you to work right away, which might be a good option if you want to work right after getting certed. If you don't want to stay and work straight away then a fast cert will only leave you 1/2 trained and you should look for somewhere where they take more time to cover all of the angles during the course.

R..

 

[chip104]

I met a girl from the Netherlands doing her IDC (starting from AOW) in Puerto Galera, PI. Didn't get much details but she was staying in a very sweet bungalow and enjoying it very much. She was nice. Let me even borrow her can opener.

 

[Bubble Junky]

check out www.amazingkohtao.com
I did mine there and had an awesome time. Spread my course over four months, doing over 100 dives. Assisted lots of instructors in the process too. And it's a great location.

 

[scubawe]

I've actually asked around Thailand, where Koh-Tao seems to be the obvious choice, but have found out that a divemaster is not able to support himself with the money given. Also, it doesn't seem like the sights are the most interesting in the world (sorry, I've been to Sinai).

 

[scubawe]

Where you able to support yourself or did you still had to spend more money than earned while working? How much approx? Sorry, but you know budget is an issue for a backpacker...

 

[Bubble Junky]

Thailand is pretty cheap place. I wasn't earning, but some get bar jobs. Koh Tao isn't that bad diving. The viz is much better in Sinai for sure, but there's more fish in Tao. And more whale sharks.