There are not many places left to be discovered above sea level but there is a whole new world to discover underwater. Becoming a registered diver is a relatively easy process and most people, around twenty four million to be exact have done it through the Professional Association of Dive Instructors or PADI for short. Once you are certified you have the opportunity to visit almost anywhere in the world and start a whole new adventure. The Caribbean has to be one of the best locations, the courses usually come with the best places to stay in Turks and Caicos. It is one of the most popular places in the world to dive because of its tranquil waters and good visibility and great range of aquatic flora and fauna.
One place in particular that is becoming increasingly popular are the beautiful islands of the Turks and Caicos. The archipelago is made up of forty islands however only eight actually have residents. The two main islands are Grand Turk to the South and Provodenciales, Provo for short, to the Northeast. One of these islands is where most people will begin their trip. Hotels in Turks and Caicos are plentiful and are usually of an excellent standard and there are many bars, restaurants to choose from. Away from the diving there are also top class beaches and lots of local attractions if you wish to whet your historical or cultural appetites.
For those who specifically want to dive there are some very good options to charter houseboats allowing you to live out on the sea and maximize your dive time. You can even take in night dives and numerous cave dives as well. Turks and Caicos are actually quite famous for their walls, two thousand foot sheer drops that make you feel like you are about to fall off a cliff. There are many of these scattered all around the islands with the most famous of them being Black Coral Forest, Rock Garden Interlude ( both off Provo) and off Grand Turk the Tunnels dive site is a terrific spot for spotting manta rays. Other species you might come across are reef sharks, hammerheads, eagle rays and sea turtles. As well as the many different species of fish there are also superb coral formations and an artificial reef called the Dome, an ex-television program prop that was sank after the show had finished.
All in all, getting your PADI license is not a bad way to start a whole new adventure exploring our underwater world. Seeing the world below the ocean is an absolute treat, once you’re able and confident in your ability you’ll be hooked and I’m sure you’ll be spending a lot of time under the waves in the future. Have you been diving in the Caribbean or any other exotic destinations? I’d love to hear your tales, experiences and tips. All you have to do is pop your thoughts down in the comment section below this article, I’m looking forward to reading them all!
