Australia: Sydney, Cairns and The Great Barrier Reef Blue Mountains, Liveaboard Dive, Rafting, Koala/Kangaroos, Skydive

Fiji:         Nadi and Taveuni                                       Diving, Waterfalls, Villages, Caves, Horseback Riding

Samoa:   Western                                                     Festival, Blowholes, Diving, Savai'i, Villages 

Hawaii:    Oahu, Maui and Kona Diving, Volcanoes, Rainforest, Lanai, 

Instead of key chains and shot glasses, I collect dive experiences. I will be diving the Great Barrier Reef, Somosomo Strait, Samoa, Maui and Kona. I am not a regular diver, although I have been open water certified over 10 years. Therefore, I look for dependable and professional dive outfits that use moor lines, buddy system, and of course focus on safety. A two-tank morning dive is all the souvenir I usually need, although I have been looking at the live aboards in Australia. I prefer reefs over wrecks and of course thrill at the site of sharks, turtles, and rays oh my!

Having visited tripadvisor, frommers, lonely planet, and numerous other internet sites, I am now hoping that experienced travelers will kindly share their insights. I would deeply appreciate ANY and ALL travel trips. Until I depart, I will check back frequently.

In particular, I would appreciate tips on:

Budget accommodations that are SAFE and clean?

Affordable and reputable dive centers?

Local sights and attractions? I try to support the locals.

Getting around: bus, bike, etc.?

Travel insurance?

Cheers,

CurisTrvlr