May 2014 my wife and I spent a week at the Riu in Negril. Having always been interested in diving and having the opportunity I decided give it a try. What I found with my Scubacaribe diving experience couldn't have been any better. My first underwater experience was in the hotel pool with a experienced professional dive instructor (Diago). The other Scubacaribe people I encountered at the scuba facility were also very knowledgable &professional;. Everyone took the time needed to fully listen and understand any questions I had and fully answered them. There was no rushed feeling at any time during my training. I honestly felt that they wanted me to fully appiciate the scuba experience in the safest way possibe. From my first ocean dive I felt very comfortable with the training and enjoyed every single moment underwater. Diago was very knowledgeable and explained what we would be doing each step of the way and what to expect. From my first breath underwater I was amazed at the sea life, colors and everthing experienced. Scubacaribe equipment and appeared to be in great condition and I encountered no issueas at all. I had such a great experience I decided to continue diving the rest of the week and attempt to get PADI certified. Diago and Daina were the two people I spoke with the most. I couldn't have asked to meet two more knowledgeable people that truly loved to dive, instruct and teach. The loved to share there knowledge with everyone. I chose to view the video offerd as well as reading the books that were provided in my trainng packet. There is a fair amount of videos, pretesting and testing involved in the process but it was well worth it. Again as I went through the process I was very comfortable in asking questions and explanations were very clear. I was able to make 5 dives over the 4 days of training. The other divers I met on the dives were also very frendly and openly dicussed experience levels and shared knowledge freely. As I'm 53 and new to the experience here are some "tips" I would share. If you have any questions about a medical condition, check with your doctor prior to vacation to be sure its safe. There are different levels of PADI certifications. I found the "open water" to be easily attainable in 4 days. Eat a good breakfast, watch the alchol the day before. My wife chose not to dive, going alone was no issue at all, again I met great people there. The dive boat was in great condition and gear was fully supplied. If you ever thought about it you should give it a try, I'm glad I did. "best vacation ever"
Note: Diago & Daina at Riu Negril, You two are great, I'll be back next year, hope to see you again. I will be diving locally, you opened my eyes to a amazing underwater world, dive safe.
Joe Perry (New York)
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