Hi,
I'm visiting the Philippines in January. I will have only recently certified with PADI Open Water and want to know where the best places are that don't require advanced / wreck diving qualifications?
I'd considered doing the Advanced Course in the Philippines, but have been told it's best to get some experience first. (Not sure if I have the time or money either)
Any advice appreciated!
Its no problem just having completed your OW Cert, plenty of places with easier diving. What might be an issue is the dive condtions, your going to want it as calm as possible. I would suggest flying into Cebu and if the weather is not so good go to Moalboal on the West Coast, very sheltered. If the weather is good then ferry to Tagbilaran and go to Alona beach. You dont say how much time you have, but you might also add Dumaguete with dives at Dauin and Apo Island if time allows. In my view getting you AOW is all part of gaining more experience as you will get to do dives that are just not possible with only OW..
I would get at minimum the deep dive portion of the advance open water with this you would not have any problems going diving. With that said go and get your AOW, most people I have meet have gone from open water to advance with almost no gap in between.
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