From Nervous Newbie to Ocean Explorer—and the Dive Sites Calling My Name

Some people dream of castles or mountaintops. Me? I’ve always dreamed of the ocean floor. There’s something spellbinding about slipping below the surface and being completely enveloped by a world so different from our own. Scuba diving has become more than a vacation hobby—it’s one of the most liberating and surreal experiences of my life. And it all started during my 40th birthday trip to Koh Tao, Thailand.

How My Scuba Journey Began

Picture this: we’re island-hopping across Southeast Asia—Thailand, Bali, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. Always up for an adventure, I decided to take the plunge—literally—and begin my Open Water Diver certification in Koh Tao. I was incredibly excited and my lovely husband was nervous but supportive (thanks, babe!). The pool dives were a struggle for me; I couldn’t get the breathing right and panicked more than once. I honestly thought I wouldn’t be able to go through with it. Meanwhile, the hubs was swimming around the bottom of the pool like Nemo.

When the big day came, we climbed aboard and checked each other’s gear like good scuba students. And then it was my turn. I nervously took my first giant stride off the back of the boat into the turquoise-blue sea.

It was like a switch flipped.

Everything was so much easier in the ocean. The calm of the water, the vibrant colors, and the super chill fish going about their day made everything click. I felt weightless, present, and more alive than I had in years.

Scuba opened the door to two of my childhood aspirations. It’s the closest I’ll ever get to floating through space and living out my little mermaid dreams (under the sea!🎵 ). There’s a quiet magic in the way you drift through the water—no phones, no noise, just you and the ocean. Total peace. Pure wonder.

Where I Dive Most Now

These days, I keep my fins wet mostly at all-inclusive resorts like Couples and Sandals in Jamaica. They’re perfect for certified divers—up to two dives a day are often included, and the dive teams are knowledgeable and fun. Even if you’re not certified, most offer a “Try Scuba” or “Discover Scuba” class so you can ease into it. And honestly, some of the most interesting conversations happen on dive boats. We’ve met NASA scientists, cartographers, professors—fellow curious minds who, like me, are always looking to explore.

Here are a few places I’m dreaming of diving next, adding depth to my future travel plans.

Thailand: Going Deeper in a Place That Changed Me

Though I was certified in Koh Tao, I still haven’t explored the famed Similan Islands. They’re known for their underwater granite formations, manta ray encounters, and vibrant coral gardens. If you’re looking to deepen your dive experience in Thailand, this is the spot.

Pro tip:  The Similan Islands are only open from October to May, so plan your trip accordingly.

Bali: The Wreck That Calls to Me

I’ve been to Bali, but not yet as a diver—which feels like unfinished business. The legendary USAT Liberty wreck in Tulamben is high on my list. It’s accessible from shore and perfect for all levels. Add in the seasonal chance to see a mola mola off Nusa Penida, and it’s clear Bali is calling me back.

Travel tip:  Stay in a dive-centric resort in Tulamben for early morning dives before the crowds and experience the wreck bathed in golden light.

Italy: History Meets Depth

Italy has been part of my travel story three times, including a dreamy month in Puglia. But scuba? That’s still a chapter I haven’t written. Sardinia and Sicily offer Roman ruins beneath the waves, along with stunning underwater caves. There’s something magical about diving into history and resurfacing to pasta and wine.

Did you know?  The underwater city of Baiae, near Naples, is known as the “Las Vegas of Ancient Rome” and you can literally swim over its mosaics.

Portugal: Revisiting with New Eyes (and Gear)

I spent a month in Portugal, including time on the lush island of Madeira, but didn’t dive—and now I wish I had. The Azores offer submerged volcanic landscapes and the chance to see blue sharks and even whales. It’s wild, rugged, and utterly captivating.

Travel tip: Dive sites around Pico Island are known for their visibility and dramatic lava tubes—perfect for underwater photography.

Greece: Island Hopping… with a Dive Twist

I’ve done the Greek island-hopping thing (and loved every second), but I haven’t made it to Crete yet. From what I’ve read, the diving there is a blend of myth and mystery—underwater caves, sunken WWII planes, and crystalline waters. Imagine following up a dive with grilled octopus and a local wine tasting or better yet, a glorious piece of galaktoboureko (iykyk). Yes, please!

Fun fact: Greece passed new laws in recent years allowing more access to ancient underwater sites, making it a fresh frontier for history-loving divers.

Scuba School in Style: All-Inclusive Options I Love

For ease, comfort, and value, you can’t beat getting certified at a place like Sandals or Couples. I love that you can take your course steps away from your suite, then reward yourself with beachside cocktails. It’s also great for couples or groups where not everyone wants to dive—there’s something for everyone.

Pro tip: If you’re already certified, bring your logbook and certification card to get access to daily dives. And always ask about refresher courses if it’s been a while since your last splash.

Final Thoughts: A Life Lived Below the Surface

Scuba has changed the way I travel. It gives me purpose, focus, and connection—both to the ocean and to the incredible people I meet along the way. Whether I’m diving deep or dreaming of my next destination, the ocean has become part of my story.

If you’re curious about adding scuba to your travel plans or want to create a dive-centric vacation, I’d be honored to help design your adventure.

Ready to Dive In?

Let’s plan your underwater escape—whether it’s your first certification trip or your next epic dive dream. I’ll handle the logistics. You bring the curiosity.

Schedule your complimentary 30-minute consultation and let’s make your scuba dreams a reality.