For many travelers who frequent the crystal-clear waters of Southeast Asia, the sight of a whale shark is the “holy grail” of marine encounters. While destinations like Koh Tao in Thailand or Oslob in the Philippines are world-famous for these encounters, there is one place in the Western Hemisphere that rivals—and perhaps even surpasses—them in scale. If you are an Asian traveler exploring the Americas, or a globetrotter looking for the next big adventure, a Cancun whale shark tour is an absolute must-add to your bucket list.

The Caribbean vs. Southeast Asia: A Different Kind of Encounter

In Asia, whale shark sightings are often seasonal and scattered. However, off the coast of Cancun, Mexico, between June and September, hundreds of these “gentle giants” gather in a massive migration. Unlike the feeding practices sometimes seen in parts of Asia, the Mexican government strictly regulates these tours to ensure they are eco-friendly and non-intrusive.

Swimming alongside a 10-meter shark in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea offers a different perspective—the water visibility here often exceeds 20 meters, providing a cinematic experience that any diving enthusiast from the Andaman Sea or Indonesia would appreciate.

Why You Should Book a Guided Cancun Whale Shark Tour

This is not an activity you can do on your own. To protect the species, you must join a licensed expedition. A professional Cancun whale shark tour includes:

• Certified Guides: Experts who understand the sharks’ behavior.
• Safety Equipment: Life vests (mandatory) and high-quality snorkeling gear.
• Small Groups: Most reputable boats limit the number of people to ensure a respectful distance from the animals.
• Bonus Wildlife: It is very common to spot giant mantas, dolphins, and sea turtles during the boat ride.

Trust the Experts: Amstar DMC

Planning a trip to Mexico from Asia or Europe requires flawless logistics. When it comes to reliability and high standards, Amstar DMC is a standout provider for these excursions. They are widely recognized for offering very good and proven Cancun whale shark tours, ensuring that guests receive top-notch service from the moment they leave their hotel. Their focus on safety and sustainable tourism makes them a preferred choice for international travelers who value quality and peace of mind during such a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Best Time to Visit and What to Bring

The whale shark season in Cancun officially runs from May 17th to September 17th. The peak months are July and August.

If you’re packing for the trip, remember these essentials:

1. Biodegradable Sunscreen: Regular sunscreens are banned to protect the ecosystem.
2. Rash Guard: To protect yourself from the sun without using chemicals.
3. Motion Sickness Medication: The ride to the “blue water” where the sharks feed can be choppy.
4. Underwater Camera: To capture the scale of these magnificent creatures.

From the Mekong to the Maya Riviera

For the readers of Asian Itinerary, expanding your horizons to the Mexican Caribbean offers a fascinating cultural and natural contrast. While the street food of Bangkok and the temples of Angkor Wat have their charm, the underwater majesty of a Cancun whale shark tour proves that the world’s oceans share a common, breathtaking beauty that connects East and West.

Whether you are a seasoned diver from the Maldives or a snorkeling enthusiast from Bali, the whale sharks of Cancun are waiting to show you the true scale of the ocean’s wonders.

The post Swimming with Giants: The Ultimate Guide to Cancun Whale Shark Tours appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

A wilderness hideaway located on the beautiful island of Moyo, part of Moyo Satonda National Park, Indonesia, this year Amanwana is celebrating its 30^th anniversary. To mark this milestone, the resort will host its first Underwater Wellness Retreat between 15 – 21 June 2023. Guided by the visiting practitioners Becky Surassamee, Pete Pawit and Barry B., this multiday retreat promises an unforgettable experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of the pristine waters surrounding the resort.

This one-of-a-kind retreat at Amanwana provides an exclusive opportunity to embark on a journey of rejuvenation, harmony, and serenity. Engage in a range of activities carefully curated to enhance wellbeingfrom breathwork practice and underwater meditation to free diving and snorkelling, every moment is designed to connect with the healing energy of the ocean.

Amanwana – Sea Plane

Offering flexibility for guests to experience the retreat in their own way, the three varying journeys cater to different preferences and durations of stay.  The full seven-day ‘Transformative Underwater Wellness Journey’ allows ample time to explore the depths and embrace the transformative power of the ocean. For those seeking a shorter retreat, the halfway package offers a four-day exploration while the ‘Taste of Underwater Wellness Journey’ offers a single-day programme, allowing guests to dip their toes into this transformative experience.

With just 17 tents in total, visitors to Amanwana experience a true sense of seclusion, making it the perfect option for groups of friends or families to enjoy all to themselves. With jungle or sea views, light-filled interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows and open-plan living spaces, the tents offer a back-to-nature experience, in typical Aman style.

The Wellness Practitioners

Becky Surassamee – PADI Instructor, Meditation Practitioner, Underwater Photographer & Model

With over 10 years’ experience teaching diving courses, Becky Surassamee is a PADI IDC staff diver and freediving instructor. To promote mental wellbeing, Becky uses meditation and mindfulness combined with freediving. She is also a conservation diver, volunteering for coral restoration projects and regularly leading dive teams for the maintenance of buoys and mooring lines. In addition, Becky is an underwater photographer and model who uses her photography to raise awareness about the beauty of the ocean, in support of conservation efforts. Becky has developed a keen eye for underwater photography and can safely shoot on a single breath-hold.

Pete Pawit – Underwater Photographer and Instructor

An acclaimed photographer and experienced free diver with PADI Advanced Free Diver, PADI Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver certification, Pete Pawit combines his passion for photography and mindfulness philosophy in his underwater meditation and sea life experience sessions. Pete will ensure safe underwater movements and activities for guests and also offers underwater photography, guiding guests to take pictures of marine life – creating cherished memories from their time at Amanwana.

Peerapol Thaiwattananon (Barry B.) – Diving Influencer and Instructor

While studying freediving and meditation philosophy, Barry discovered an interconnection between mind and body. A qualified PADI Advanced Freediver and with Rescue Diver certification Barry discovered true peace and serenity while freediving with marine life and now integrates these practices and guidance of others.

The post AN UNDERWATER WELLNESS RETREAT AT AMANWANA appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Get ready to be reunited with the wonders of Bali! From 1 May the island is fully open for tourism and the last remaining obstacles – mandatory PCR tests on arrival and quarantine – have been removed. Many international carriers have restarted flights and it is as easy to get to Bali as it has ever been. 

Now is the time to enjoy an exclusive getaway at Munduk Moding Plantation.  Located on more than 5 hectares of a working coffee plantation set in the hill country of North Bali with some of the best views on the Island, you can experience the magic of this hideaway and revel in the freedom to drift between indoor and outdoor spaces. Our Jacuzzis and infinity pools have won many prizes and are an unparalleled vantage point for observing how nature creates art as the light of the sun plays with the horizons of the Bali Sea and the towering volcanoes in Java.

With the coffee harvest in full swing this summer you can experience the entire coffee cycle from harvesting to processing and roasting our premium coffees. There are endless opportunities to immerse yourself in this ritual and discover the many varieties and uses we make of our coffees – including in our Spa where it is used as a scrub!

Enjoy peace of mind when staying at Munduk Moding Plantation as we continue to follow strict safety protocols and adhere to certified health and hygiene procedures with the comprehensive Care & Safety programme.

To celebrate the re-opening of the Island we are offering a special four day “Back to Bali” programme that allows you to enjoy Munduk Moding Plantation and discover this beautiful part of the Island.

Why not enjoy some world class snorkeling or diving after a stay at MMP in East Indonesia in some of the most pristine coral seas on Earth – we are offering some unique trips on our own traditional Phinisi KMS Shakti where this summer you will have the possibility to swim with whalesharks; the largest fish in the ocean.

The post BACK TO BALI WITH MUNDUK MODING PLANTATION appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

People snorkelling in the waters surrounding the Koh Rok Islands in the Krabi Province of the Andaman Sea have sighted Manta Rays, a vulnerable species and the largest type of ray in the world, for the first time in about 18 years.

Paradise Koh Rok

The 2 Koh Rok Islands – Koh Rok Nai and Koh Rok Nok – are tiny paradises 30 km south of Koh Lanta, Krabi. Small, rugged and mostly unspoilt, they’re home to an impressive coral reef system, pristine white-sand beaches, a small ranger’s station, a restaurant and very little else. While there’s some accommodation available so that you can stay on the island, this is mostly in the form of tents and a few bungalows.

As part of the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, the Koh Rok Islands have a thriving underwater ecosystem, where divers and snorkelers can encounter sea turtles, moray eels and black-tip reef sharks. On land, on Koh Rok Nai, the beautiful Koh Rok Waterfall is well worth seeing.

The Koh Rok Islands are widely known for their rich marine life, which has regenerated during the COVID-19 tourism hiatus. Snorkelers were excited to encounter the large Manta Rays as, normally, only scuba divers would be able to see them.

A snorkeler swims with a manta ray

The Manta Rays are between 3 and 6.7 metres wide and weigh up to 1,350 kilograms. These rays are often found in tropical waters, especially near coral reefs. Such creatures are also found near the “Hin Daeng Hin Muang” dive site near the Koh Rok Islands, located within the Mu Koh Lanta National Park.

The manta ray is considered to be endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as a result of overfishing over the past few decades.

HOW TO GET THERE

There’s no public boat service to the Koh Rok Islands, but there are tour companies operating speedboat or longtail boat day trips there from Koh Kradan, Koh Muk, Koh Ngai or Koh Lanta. You’ll need to pay around 400 baht entry fee on arrival at Koh Rok – the national park entry fee. Tours are not available from May to November as the islands are usually closed during this time because of the rough weather.

The post Rare manta rays found around Koh Rok islands appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Jukungs beached on the sand in Amed, north-east Bali

The jukung are strange little outrigger canoes that have a a rich and colourful history. The ubiquitous presence of such vessels in the Indonesian holiday island of Bali makes them arguably one of the most photographed icons of this beautiful island. Jukung are so prevalent in Bali, so vibrant, they truly represents the eclectic history of the island and seem to be synonymous with island life. You will find them beached after a day’s activity all around Bali.

These originally hand-crafted wooden canoes with outriggers (or supports) on one or both sides of the vessel (primarily for support) have been designed and used throughout South-East Asia and the South Pacific since almost 2000 years. They are typically carved from Camplung trees and bamboo trees, and in Bali, once they are fully constructed, they undergo a traditional and very beautiful blessing ceremony with offerings of rice, flowers, and fruits.

Outriggers on the sand

Bali is of course not the only place where you can actually spot a jukung. Also called cadik in some areas, the double outrigger jukung is but one of many types of Austronesian canoes that use the crab claw sail, traditional throughout Polynesia. People in Kalimantan also name their boats jukung and use them for transportation and in daily activities such as going to the office, to school, or shopping in the market. In Salonpeng, Madura, an island off the northeastern coast of Java, the jukung are huge and are used by the local fishermen.

Candidasa beach with several jukung

There are some varying theories on how an almost identical design managed to penetrate so many vast islands in the region, but it would seem clear that some intrepid travellers or lost fishermen ended up on different islands and the design spread throughout the area.

Regardless of where they are used, they all have in common one thing: they are typically bright in color and highly decorated, coloured and designed to symbolise the boat-builder or the area of the craftsmen. They usually bear a marlin-like prow.

These hand-crafted little vessels were all originally built for local transportation and primarily fishing as they are known to be sturdy, robust and able to withstand precarious conditions. Fast and nimble, the Jukung are known for their capacity to skim over shallow reefs and also withstand ocean conditions. Nowadays they are often utilised for an unlikely use: Scuba Diving, snorkelling and surfing trips, and other novel tourist adventures. However the jukung design is still the same, it has not really deviated much from the original designs from hundreds of years ago. The boat owners and captains are still typically from fishing and building heritage and they custom-design their boats to fit surfboards and Scuba equipment.

Fishermen returning from a night at sea at Canggu beach

Since the 1970s, there has been an increasing awareness in Bali to protect the environment, so access to wood to make traditional jukung became increasingly challenging. Currently there is a modern version of jukung, still sturdy and inexpensive, advertised as unsinkable and made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) in Indonesia. 

It is perhaps worth mentioning about a jukung race in the late 1980s, a three-month seafaring journey of over 1,900 km in open outrigger jukung canoes by nine crews, who sailed from Bali to Darwin, Australia, across the Timor Sea. The expedition was filmed and made into a documentary called “Passage out of Paradise”; it was also featured by the National Geographic Society as “The Great Jukung Race”. It was the first ever expedition of this kind, following purported Austronesian sailing routes dating 7,000 years old. 

Challenges experienced were storms requiring numerous boat repairs, waterspouts, excessive exposure to sun, heat or rain, adverse currents and whirlpools. Hazards included drifting onto war-torn Timor, unpredictable behaviour/welcome from remote villagers, salt water boils, wound infections, malnutrition, near misses with night-time freighters, sightings of sperm whales and giant white sharks. Some sailors were viciously attacked by hornets while preparing to leave a remote beach camp.

Fisherrman moving his jukung at Canggu beach

The crews eventually rebelled and unanimously decided to sail as a group, as opposed to racing the final leg of the journey, for safety. They all successfully reached their final destination of Darwin.

A final point to mention is that experts say that if you ever happen to dream of a jukung or a similar vessel, this represents your capacity to withstand and navigate your way through difficult times and circumstances.

So, when you are in Bali and you see jukung, or when your dive centre uses a jukung for a dive, then remember this brief history of an amazing vessel and its heritage.

The post Balinese Jukung appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

While the Island of the Gods battened down the hatches during the pandemic, an emerging reef off the shores of a Bali resort has deepened its roots and flourished — so much so that the Siddhartha Oceanfront Resort & Spa is ringing the bells on the success of a reef restoration and house reef project, with the launch of two new diving & snorkeling packages for its April 2022 re-opening.

Part of Siddhartha Oceanfront Resort & Spa’s house reef

The creation of an immense artificial reef, spanning 100 meters near the shoreline of the property, and the expansion of the existing reef are passion projects of onsite Managing Directors and owners, Stefan Brand and Barbara Ebel. Over the last several years the couple have worked tirelessly to develop the area in front of the resort, known as Kubu Marine Park, as a marine sanctuary–sometimes spending several hours a day underwater.

“We never wanted to break anything to create something new so the project has taken a long time to get to the stage where it is now,” explained Brand. To create the house reef the couple collected broken stone corals and soft corals that had separated naturally from other reefs – from strong current, for example – and have successfully used discarded man-made materials as a foundation for growth.

“Some corals that we didn’t think would even work on the reef have flourished during recent times,” said Ebel. “Just this month we spotted a coral that we didn’t think would take and it’s already grown over a square meter.”

The house reef might have been slow to grow but the increase in fish happened quickly. With limited people frequenting the spot due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, the area is teeming with even more coral growth and marine life. Such sea life as turtles, trumpetfish, batfish, schooling snappers, sweetlips and fusiliers, along with leaf fish, lionfish, and even the occasional reef shark or eagle ray can now be found in the waters outside Siddhartha.

Aerial view of Siddhartha Oceanfront Resort & Spa with Mt Agung in the background

Also accessible from the property is the Boga Wreck, a 50-meter long ship that was purposely sunk in 2012 and has since been claimed by nature. Remnants inside the Boga, ranging from Buddha statues to a VW Jeep, can also be discovered by more advanced divers. The famous USAT Liberty Wreck, a US cargo ship that was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine during the Second World War, is only a few minutes by car or boat from the oceanfront property.

With a fully equipped SSI (Scuba Schools International) dive center on site, Siddhartha has rolled out two new packages that cater to a range of underwater enthusiasts, from the curious to the advanced.

“Discover East Bali” is a ten-night stay package that includes two guided one-hour house reef dives (by scuba or snorkel) and two 60-minute Balinese style massages at the resort’s Six Elements Spa. Rates start from USD1,130 per room. “Explore Diving Bali” is a new seven-night stay package for certified divers featuring six guided dives that take in the house reef along with other famous nearby shore dive sites. Starting rates are from USD900 per room.

Both offers include airport transfers and daily breakfast and are available until Dec. 1, 2022. Free yoga classes are also on offer each day in an open-air Balinese-style pavilion near the shoreline.

Siddhartha features 30 bungalows and two oceanfront villas spread out over 2.4 hectares of land in a more traditional and less frequented area of Bali. Each freestanding bungalow or villa was designed with privacy in mind and ample space, lush with old growth trees and newly planted vegetable gardens, provides an extra layer of seclusion. Both villas and many of the bungalows have ocean views so guests can take in the scenery from both above and below water during their stay.

The post Siddhartha Oceanfront Resort & Spa launches dive-inspired packages appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Raja Ampat, A Paradise in an Unexplored East Indonesia for Both Divers and Nature Lovers

Why not combine the beauty of North Bali with Indonesia’s most exciting Island paradise – Raja Ampat – possibly one of the world’s last great adventures? This makes for a holiday of lifetime – let us put it together for you. Munduk Moding Plantation works closely with Raja Ampat`s most experienced live aboard ship: the Shakti.
Shakti offers specialised diving, snorkelling and free diving itineraries as well as whale and bird watching expeditions or other adventure trips.

On Shakti, none of the voyages resemble another. Charter the Shakti for groups up to 10 friends and we will design a truly unique and private experience in Raja Ampat according to your personal interests and individual wishes in terms of activities and itineraries. We also run a limited number of scheduled trips on which guests can book a cabin. Discuss the options with us personally.

There are still some possibilities for chartering the entire boat in 2022 for tailor-made adventure holidays for families, small-sized group of friends, or business colleges. Contact Shakti team directly for more information: info@shakti-raja-ampat.com

Diving Highlights

With over 1500 islands to discover above and under water, there will certainly never be a shortage of wonderful things to explore. To give you the best insight possible on what to expect when diving with us in Raja Ampat we collected a list of some of the spectacular island groups that offer miraculous conditions for diving.

FOLLOW SHAKTI ADVENTURES ON INSTAGRAM

The post Raja Ampat, a real paradise appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Last weekend I travelled north to Khao Lak with Fantasia Asia team for a three day-two night stay with a day trip to Koh Similan and Koh Surin islands archipelagos.

The Similan Islands are located in the Andaman Sea on the West Coast of Southern Thailand, in Phang-nga province. The Similan archipelago consists of eleven islands, all located in the Mu Koh Similan National Park, which covers over 140 square kilometres. The Islands are the perfect travel destination for those who like diving and exploring remote and desolated places full of wildlife. The largest island is Koh Similan and is probably the best place to start your adventure. All the Similan Islands are surrounded by crystal clear shallow waters that harbour exciting rock formations and spectacular coral reefs. The marine life around the islands is unmatched in Thailand and in the whole region.

Why would I want to visit Similan islands when I live in beautiful Krabi where islands abound, you may ask. Well, I’m taking advantage of the unusually quiet high season to travel a bit further than usual and to try out excursions that I wouldn’t normally have the time to take. Was also after a change of scenery and some really stunning snorkelling experiences, which is what the Similan are famous about. 

Relaxing and waiting sunset from The Briza pool

Once in Khao Lak, we checked in at conveniently located The Briza Beach Resort. The next morning we woke up relatively early, had a large breakfast at the hotel and drove to the pier, where we had a second breakfast served at the Sea Star dock. We then registered for our tour and were given mask, fins, snorkel, a towel and a practical carrier bag. You are free to bring your own snorkelling equipment and only take what you miss. Sea-sickness pills and relaxing balms are also available free of charge.

My trip to Similan coincided with the Chinese New Year, which has recently been promoted to public holiday in Thailand in order to boost local tourism, hence we were a group of three 4-engine speed-boats traveling together from Khao Lak to the Similan, and each boat carried between 30 and 50 persons. We reached Similan in a 1-hour-and-a-half pleasant trip in very calm waters, and I was immediately surprised and quite pleased to observe that we were the only three boats: none had come from Phuket, or if it had, it had followed a different itinerary that day.

Koh MIang beach, Similan Island 4

Our first stop was in the turquoise-tinted bay of Koh Miang, also known as Island Number 4, where the boats observed a quick stop to drop off people who weren’t interested in snorkelling. The first time someone visits Koh Miang, he is up for a big surprise: the island is just stunning, a perfect representation of what we visualise when we think of a tropical paradise. Its white sandy beach is wide and its sand soft, it’s fringed by palm trees that face a transparent turquoise-meets-lapis lazuli-meets crystal clear sea. We dropped some passengers in Koh Miang, well aware that we would be back there to enjoy lunch and to get our chance to live the tropical dream on Miang Beach.

Silvia and Alis enjoy the day

The first snorkelling stop – which lasted 45 minutes –  was in calm waters on a secluded bay not far from Miang Beach. Visibility was about 15 meters, and the bottom was mostly sandy or covered by the reef. The guides who accompanied us took extremely good care of those who weren’t confident in the water, keeping them close, helping them floating by holding a large piece of styrofoam tablet and dragging them around so that they could sneak-peak at the underwater world. I spent the time snorkelling by myself, trying out my new underwater camera and looking out for turtles, who unfortunately didn’t show up that day.

Amazingly fluffy sand at Koh Miang beach

Back to Koh Miang, we were served a delicious, spicy lunch at the National Park premises. The lunch had been cooked in Khao Lak and carried to Similan by Sea Star, and vegetarian or special meals were available. I had some rice, fried chicken and vegetarian curry, while others had prawns and fish with rice and curry. Soft drinks are included, and plenty. I ate my food real fast and went down to the beach, which is only a few steps away from the restaurant area. Wow! I’ve seen my share of impressive islands in several parts of the world, but the colour of the ocean in Miang Beach that day was one I will not forget.

Donald Duck bay and rock on Similan

After a couple of hours in Koh Miang we left to visit another snorkelling site, which was satisfactory and offered flat waters and great visibility. Though diver inside me has been spoilt by many most impressive diving sites before, I managed to have a good time swimming above the reef and checking out fish and corals. Huge parrot and surgeon fish swim around copiously in Similan, alongside several clown fish in their anemones, puffer fish and blue star fish. 

Sail Rock Viewpoint

It was then time to head to the last stop of the day, Island Number 8, also known as Similan Island. The first glimpse of a white long stretch of sandy beach surrounded by huge and funny-shaped rocks made most of the passengers in our boat cry out in delight. We were approaching Donal Duck Bay, the most famous beach in Similan, so called because of a large rock located on the western part of the bay shaped like the head of Donald Duck. But the most famous landmark of Similan island is Sail Rock, a unique round boulder that balances precariously on top of other rocks and that looks like a sail. From there it’s an easy yet sweaty 10-minute hike up to the viewpoint. From there, stunning photos of the white sandy beach and of the turquoise waters below are guaranteed. So off I went, eager to get that stunning view on camera without the hundreds – maybe thousands – of people that in normal circumstances crowd this island. And I certainly wasn’t disappointed: the panorama was so beautiful I couldn’t take my eyes off of it. I ended up losing myself in a daydream about mooring my own sailing boat there for the night, or for a year… 

A fiery sunset at Similan

Instead, it was time to go back to Khao Lak where, after another smooth boat trip, we arrived before sunset and were offered a sumptuous dinner at the Sea Star pier: Thai popular dishes like papaya salad, yellow noodles, sticky rice and fried chicken, BBQ chicken skewers and a delicious home-made coconut ice cream everyone had a second serving of. Back to The Briza Beach Resort, I enjoyed a poolside Margarita, watching the sun set over the Similan Islands and the Andaman Sea.

I recommend this trips to all sea-lovers: even if you’re not keen on snorkelling, you will have a good chance to spot some corals and beautiful fishes (and, with a bit of luck, turtles) since most snorkelling areas have shallow waters, giving you plenty of opportunity to be amazed at some of the healthiest and most colourful reefs in Thailand. 

Good to know:

Similan

1. The Similan archipelago consists of eleven islands that make up the Mu Ko Similan National Park, the perfect destination for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, beach lovers and explorers.
2. Similan means ‘Nine’ in the Yawi native tongue of the area. In 2014 the National Park came to include two more islands (Koh Bon and Koh Tachai).
3. Between the middle of May and the end of October the Similan National Park closes to visitors. Additionally, some islands are closed to tourists all year around to protect the fragile sea turtles who are nesting on some of the beaches. Illegal fishing is still a problem, especially in low season.
4. It was possible to camp in Island Number 4 until a few years ago, but it’s not allowed anymore, at least for the time being. Therefore, to visit Similan you now need to take a day tour from Phuket or from Khao Lak, or book a multi-day cruise on a Liveaboard.

DO NOT:

– feed the fish, even if they follow you and beg for food

– touch or step on any coral or sea life.

– bring home sand, sea shells or any sea life.

– put tons of sunscreen before snorkelling, it’s toxic for the marine life. Wear a long sleeved t-shirt instead.

In Khao Lak Fantasia Asia and Asian Itinerary stayed at The Briza Beach Resort, one of Fantasia Asia’s partner hotels. The Briza Beach Resort has spacious, bright rooms settled around a large swimming pool, with partial or full sea view depending on the category chosen.

This beach resort has a laid-back atmosphere, and Khao Lak’s many restaurants, shops and bars are only a few minute drive away, as it’s the pier from which most sea-tour companies depart for Similan.

We chose operator Sea Star because it’s one of the most popular boat operators in the area, and one of the few that is still open despite the Covid pandemic that badly hit Thailand’s tourism industry.

WATCH FANTASIA ASIA VIDEO OF THE TRIP HERE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xoghJrptRo 

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I have always had a special relationship with the sea, and I believe life on Earth originated from the oceans, so it is no surprise that one of the most relevant items in my wish list was always to become a Dive Master (DM). Finally, today I can say: Mission Accomplished!!

Traditional Longtail boat with an idyllic backdrop

At the beginning, it was just a passion for underwater life, coupled with the challenge of pushing human limits. I first became a Rescue Diver, with 80 diving in my LOG, some done in different countries but most achieved in Thailand. 

Using modern equipment that allows you to breathe underwater like a fish is both exciting and scary at the same time, so my wanting to become a Dive Master had to do with being best trained underwater and ready to deal with any dangerous circumstance.

I am all geared up!

I took the Dive Master training course with PADI-certified dive shop Kon Tiki Krabi (www.kontikithailand.com), based in Ao Nang, Krabi province, Thailand. This coastal location has direct access to several islands and is 42 km north of Koh Phi Phi national park, which is a great advantage. I enjoyed every single trip we had from Ao Nang to Koh Phi Phi islands, all amazing!!! 

The Dive Master training is divided into six main parts:

1- Knowledge development, sub divided in different section as physics, physiology, equipment, diving skills, environment, decompression theory and dive planner. The final test comprises 120 questions with 4 multiple answers for each, and a few calculations.

Tanks are ready, being a Dive Master is a meticulous task

2- Stamina Assessment, consisting of a chronometer swimming and snorkelling test. The funny part was that I had to train quite a bit before getting the maximum score. The first time I gave a try to the snorkelling test it take me double the time allowed to achieve the minimum score!

3- Practical Skills, consisting on setting up a dive site like a boat, searching underwater lost material and recovering it, mapping a diving site assigned by the instructor, passing an underwater stress test and also setting up logistic for a deep dive. 

A group of fish swim freely around a wreck

4- Conducted workshops, which technically include every scenario you may have to face once you are a certified Dive Master, like guiding divers under water, taking people that have never been underwater diving (also called Discovering Scuba Diving, or DSD) and being a snorkelling guide and a free-dive guide.

5- Practical assessment, consisting of supervising and assisting diving instructors during their teaching different programs like Open-Water or Advance Divers Certification, Rescue Program, and different and interesting underwater skills.

6- First and Second Emergency response, as to be a certified Dive Master you must be able to rescue guests underwater and on surface by being able to provide oxygen or reanimate an injured person.

Koh Poda and Chicken island, 2 of Krabi icons

The knowledge gained during this course is great and extremely useful. It took me about 45 days between pool and open sea dives to accomplish every requirement, as well as days and days of self study. 

A typical boat-day for a Dive Master Training Course starts by gathering and setting up equipment together with colleagues at the dive center, and bringing it to the boat by truck. After the boat is set and the equipment ready, customers join us on the boat’s upper floor, where one of us gives them the briefing for the day.

Lionfish close up

At this time the boat takes off towards the diving site, and while the customers enjoy fruit, fizzy drinks and coffee, the boat staff goes on a meeting in order to organise the day. Tasks are many, and we observe sea current weather and water tides in order to decide the best diving location for the day, taking into consideration customers’ level and requests. The day then goes by very fast, between water activities, social relations and guests briefings. Food served aboard consists of breakfast (this depends on the number of activities in a specific day) and a buffet lunch, both served on the upper deck between diving activities. There is also a well-stocked library at the lower deck.

My training as Dive Master was mainly spent on this boat

The end of the day is always the most peaceful time: the guest are tired – some take a nap on the boat’s comfortable benches -, the staff takes care of the boat and the instructors work on documents. The way back to Ao Nang softly ends with a marvellous sunset, with the waves rocking the boat and inducing passengers to a semi-conscious sleep. On the horizon line, the amazing islands of the Krabi province dot the expanse of water. At some point, the captain slows down the pace of the engine and we are rewarded by a pod of dolphins swimming close to the boat.

So, what are the main memories I take home from this amazing experience? Well, for sure the priceless knowledge I have become acquainted with, the feeling of full days out at sea and underwater, and the amazing colleagues at Kon Tiki Krabi.  

I earlier said there are six main sections to complete in order to qualify as a Dive Master. I actually forgot the seventh section… it is called a snorkel test. I did not quite understand well what my colleagues meant. They said it is a practical and required assessment as the end of my training, and it happens in a pub! Right tonight…. I better go now. I must complete my Dive Master. See you underwater!

The post BECOME A DIVE MASTER appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

REVĪVŌ is launching exclusive cruises to navigate in a hand-crafted phinisi or traditional teak cruiser around the seas of Indonesia exploring the beautiful islands including Raja Ampat, Kaimanan, Komodo, Banda or Alor. The REVĪVŌ Wellness Cruise is a rare chance to experience a personal well-being retreat including diving and exploring stunning scenery on one of the REVĪVŌ flagship vessels exclusive to passengers, promising total privacy on a tailor-made adventure. Each Cruise will have its own REVIVO wellness-coach to accommodate the personal needs on board. Cabins onboard the REVĪVŌ Wellness Cruise are as spacious and elegant as a REVĪVŌ resort suite, promising every comfort, combined with ever-changing views. 

A Personalised Itinerary: 

From the length of the trip to the chosen experiences, itineraries are flexible and curated. New routes are created for returning guests, and special requests are accommodated whenever possible. 

Discover the Pacific Ocean on one of the REVĪVŌ cruises

REVĪVŌ Boats: 

Embark on a beautiful journey to discover the Pacific Ocean on one of the REVĪVŌ cruises such as the REVĪVŌ 3-Cabin Boat or the REVĪVŌ 5-Cabin Boat. Once on board, guest will find the REVĪVŌ luxury standards including world-class diving equipment, spacious outdoor areas and a healthy gourmet kitchen. Throughout the voyage, guests will be able to dive into a holistic approach to wellness integrating fitness, spa therapies and nutritious meals to help achieve personal goals while discovering the hidden beauties of Indonesia. Each boat is booked exclusively either for 1 cabin (2 people) or for the whole 5 cabins (max 10 people). 

Diving & Mind Training Retreat on a cruise includes: 

• ●  Bespoke Wellness Retreat Program prepared by our Wellness Coach nutritionist
  to fit each personal needs. 
• ●  Daily Classes & activities: Yoga, Meditation, Fitness, Pilates, TRX, Diving (for
  certified divers), trekking, beach excursions, paddle boarding, kayaking. 
• ●  One SPA Treatment per day per adult. 
• ●  All meals and non-alcoholic beverages: each menu is tailored-made depending
  on your nutritional needs . 
• ●  Airport transfers & Fast Track Immigration. 
• ●  Minimum of 6 nights on the boat and possibility to stay at REVĪVŌ WELLNESS
  RESORT Nusa Dua prior or after your cruise.   

Price starts from: 1 cabin, 2 pax 68,000$ and 5 Cabins, 10 pax 86,000 for 6 nights retreat on the REVĪVŌ WELLNESS CRUISE. 

About REVĪVŌ WELLNESS RESORT Bali www.revivoresorts.com
Nestled amidst the breezy hills of Nusa Dua in south Bali, REVĪVŌ is a luxury wellness resort spread across 3 hectares of teak tree forest, surrounded by the peaceful Bali National Golf club, dense tropical rainforest and the Indian ocean. Meaning “I’ll live again”, REVĪVŌ’s lush enclave is comprised of Balinese-style luxury suites and villas, a nutritious gourmet restaurant, bar and pool lounge, as well as best-in-class fitness and spa facilities. The resort aims to “soothe the spirit, rejuvenate the body and enrich the mind” through a complete mind journey composed of a blend of relaxation activities, spa and holistic medicine treatments and a personal food diet based on customer’s DNA & nutritional needs. 

More news to come: REVĪVŌ WELLNESS RESORTS is launching two properties one in France and one in Spain, two Well-being Clubs one in Italy and one in Japan and soon its own REVĪVŌ Skin line. 

REVĪVŌ Openings overview: 

REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort Nusa Dua, Indonesia (launched spring 2018) REVĪVŌ Wellness Cruise, Indonesia (launched November 2018) REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort Barcelona, Spain (2019)
REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort, Château de Fiac, France (2020) 

REVĪVŌ Wellness Club Rome, Italy (2019) REVĪVŌ Wellness Club Niseko, Japan (2020) 

The post REVĪVŌ WELLNESS CRUISE in Indonesia appeared first on Asian Itinerary.