Oh that’s ridiculous. Tigger learned when he was 10, and he’s on the smaller side. For him we either used smaller tanks, or used the full ones and someone held onto the tank as he did a stride into the water, or he got into the water and we handed the BCD (the vest that attaches to the tank) and tank down, and he put it on in the water where it was easier for him. I also taught an 11-year-old girl who had virtually no problem.

So have just spoken with the dive place & they say they are not keen on taking anyone under the age of 14 especially girls as they are usually smaller framed & can’t cope with the heavy equipment. As an instuctor what’s your take on this?

Oh, if you’re in Oz do it there for sure. That’s a great price and a great place to get started.

I did consider waiting for the scuba. But then I thought of time, if we already have it we can utilise the time actually enjoying the diving & also with price I have no idea of prices in the various locations & we can do it in Sydney, Aus where we live for $149 AUD. That’s our open water diver certification. It’s a 3 day course including 5 ocean dives. How much would it cost in, say, somewhere like mexico ot Thailand if you’ve been there? I too have told G whatever she takes she has to carry, she’s fighting for a suitcase but I’m holding firm on the backpack.

Sounds like a wonderful plan. With my son he can bring anything, but he has to carry it all. That pile got whittled down REAL quick.

As far as scuba goes, you might want to wait until you’ve begun your journey. I have a few reasons for this (and I’m a scuba instructor), but the big 2 ones are you will probably find it cheaper elsewhere AND most likely, depending where you live, the diving will be much more interesting where you’re going, especially if you go to places in Mexico like Cozumel (which I HIGHLY suggest). The diving there is PHENOMENAL. I have some contacts down there, and in fact we may be back there soon as well.

This is not a new thing to her as I have been talking about doing it for many years. She is fighting the ‘learning adventure’ title preferring to call it an extended holiday so we have compromised & are calling it a learning holiday. I am actually getting glimpses of the old G, glimpses of excitement at a new adventure & new experiences, although she is doing her best at hiding it. I have given her input & choices with regards to our destinations & she has chosen very wisely. One suprise choice was Mexico & when I asked her why she said she doesn’t really know she is just drawn to it, like it’s calling her. Good enough reason to go. She is also not happy with the fact she can only take what she can fit in a backpack (how on earth will she fit her hair straightner & accessories). There has been a lot of compromise with what she can & can’t do/take. I’ve agreed to the laptop & ipad but with restricted communication with friends via facebook & skype. I think it will defeat the purpose if she spends hours on these things like she does at home. I have agreed to let her get her scuba diving certificate before we leave as this is something that really interests her. I’m sure there is much more compromise & decisions to be made before we leave but for now we are both happy.

That’s a great quote and oh so true! You’re a brave mom. LOL What does G think of this plan? I think it sounds awesome, and good for you for making this decision! It sounds like just the thing she’ll need.

Thanks!