It's hot... hot... hot! Every time summer rolls around, many people have different ways to beat the heat. Some go shopping in air-conditioned malls, while others look for places to cool off. When it comes to popular summer getaways, the beach is definitely a top choice. But if you're heading to the beach without any activities, it might feel a bit dull. Besides lounging on the sandy shore, one must not miss out on snorkeling or scuba diving to experience the underwater world that many dream of swimming in the blue waters, filled with sights more extraordinary than ever before. From beautiful corals, sea anemones, schools of fish, to creatures like whale sharks, sea turtles, and parrotfish, there’s so much to see. During holidays or festivals, consider finding a great diving trip and pack your bags to cool off. But before you go, don’t forget to check your readiness to ensure you have an exhilarating and refreshing experience without limits.

 

 

  1. Choose a Trip That Suits You

When planning a diving trip, you need to decide where you want to dive and enjoy the beauty of nature beneath the sea. Do you want to see whale sharks? Or would you prefer an island with rich natural resources? Choose a destination that meets your desires. Once you have your ideal location, select a trip based on safety standards and complete facilities.

  1. Prepare Your Body

Before diving, the most important thing is your physical readiness. You need to be in good health. If you have a cold, it's best to recover before diving to make ear clearing easier. Make sure to get enough rest before your diving trip to reduce the risk of nitrogen sickness. And very importantly, stay hydrated, as your body can lose water in various ways while diving, and excessive dehydration can lead to DCS (Decompression Sickness).

  1. Clothing

Of course, clothing for a beach trip should be light, thin, and comfortable. Women can wear bikinis, while men can opt for comfortable shorts. However, if you plan to dive, it's advisable to prepare a wetsuit and gear. If you're just snorkeling, wearing a long-sleeved swimsuit with long pants is best to combat the harsh sun. Oh! Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes; otherwise, you might feel cold after getting out of the water.

  1. Sunblock

This is very important. We all know how intense the sun is in Thailand. Even underwater, if you don’t apply sunscreen, you’ll still tan. It’s best to choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 50++, that is waterproof and doesn’t require waiting after application. This will help protect your skin.

  1. Hat

This is also important. You can choose from wide-brimmed hats, caps, or fashionable hats to protect your face from the sun. Plus, they make you look cooler in selfies. If you’re really worried about the sun, bringing an umbrella along is also fine.

  1. Sunglasses

Our eyes are quite sensitive. When exposed to strong sun or wind, they can struggle. Since you’ll be facing direct sunlight and reflections from the water, sunglasses are the best way to protect your eyes. And don’t forget to bring waterproof goggles or a diving mask to help you see the beauty beneath the sea.

  1. Ocean Pack Bag

Simply put, this is a waterproof backpack. This bag will make your life easier, ensuring that your belongings stay dry no matter how much water splashes on you. It’s great to have. For added convenience, bring some plastic bags as well. They can be used for wet clothes after swimming to keep them separate from your other clothes or for miscellaneous trash. And don’t forget to dispose of your trash properly onshore.

  1. Basic Medications

Whether it’s medicine, inhalers, seasickness pills, or ointments, sometimes being on a boat or out at sea with strong waves can make you feel dizzy or unwell. So, bringing some medication is a good idea. If you’re feeling fine, you might be able to help others in your group.

  1. Camera

This is a must-have! After all, going diving without taking selfies with beautiful views, underwater corals, or colorful fish seems incomplete. Nowadays, many cameras can go underwater up to 10 meters, or you can prepare a housing for larger cameras. If you’re heading to the beach, don’t forget to bring your camera!

 

               In addition to the preparations mentioned above, for those engaging in diving activities, it’s advisable to avoid alcoholic beverages as they may lead to hangovers and seasickness. Importantly, don’t forget to book your diving tour in advance. Don’t assume you can find one on the spot, as they may be fully booked. To ensure complete preparation before diving, including equipment, diving trips, or if you’re interested in learning scuba diving, all of this will be available at the Thailand Dive Expo 2019, held from May 16 to 19, 2019, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Hall EH 102, BITEC Exhibition and Convention Center. This event gathers everything related to diving, including diving equipment, diving packages, and experts ready to provide advice and share knowledge and experiences. It’s a major annual event you shouldn’t miss.