Leaving the US for a RTW trip. Never scuba'd before but want to in Fiji and other places. Would I do better to take a class here in the US or take it in Fiji? looks like it might be a little more expensive here in the US, but then at least Id have the experience under my belt and not be a total learner when i arrive in Fiji and can make better use of my dive time there.
Scuba in Fiji
Hi Rodger,
I've never done any diving either before, but I think that the experience will be all the better doing it in a great environment like Fiji! When do you think you'll be there? I'm there from the 11th to 21st of March - I'll keep you posted as to how I make out!
There are lots of dive schools in Fiji where you can get your PADI qualification. I think it would be cheaper to do it in Fiji than in the US. You will just have to stay in one place for a week so you can complete the course.
If you are in Fiji in July or August, try and get out to the Yasawa Islands so you can dive or snorkel with the Manta Rays, it's amazing! I loved snorkelling in Fiji, there were so many amazing fish to see.
Quoting upyourkilt
Hi Rodger,
I've never done any diving either before, but I think that the experience will be all the better doing it in a great environment like Fiji! When do you think you'll be there? I'm there from the 11th to 21st of March - I'll keep you posted as to how I make out!
I was concerned about how much time I'd/we'd spend sitting around "learning". So was thinking it might be better to get the basics here in the US.
You'll be there just before me. I fly out on March 23rd. So yeah let me know how it goes!
cheers
rog
Quoting chemgal
There are lots of dive schools in Fiji where you can get your PADI qualification. I think it would be cheaper to do it in Fiji than in the US. You will just have to stay in one place for a week so you can complete the course.
If you are in Fiji in July or August, try and get out to the Yasawa Islands so you can dive or snorkel with the Manta Rays, it's amazing! I loved snorkelling in Fiji, there were so many amazing fish to see.
looks like its maybe $200US cheaper to do basics in Fiji. I was concerned about how much time I'd spend sitting around "learning". So was thinking it might be better to get the basics here in the US? As with everything looks like I need to do more research!
How bad can it be sitting on a tropical island learning about diving? 
I didn't do a PADI course in Fiji but I met a few people who did. They seemed to spend about 30 mins out of the water learning and the majority of the time in the water. Most places had one on one tuition too.
Quoting chemgal
How bad can it be sitting on a tropical island learning about diving?
I didn't do a PADI course in Fiji but I met a few people who did. They seemed to spend about 30 mins out of the water learning and the majority of the time in the water. Most places had one on one tuition too.
Ah ok thats good to know. I was worried Id be sitting around on a tropical island day dreaming, when i should be paying attention to them telling me about all the things that are about to kill me! 
I'm not sure if you mind but the weather right now in Fiji isn't looking too good with showers/thunderstorms and all. So, be prepared for a wet scuba diving lesson!
Quoting quagmire33
I'm not sure if you mind but the weather right now in Fiji isn't looking too good with showers/thunderstorms and all. So, be prepared for a wet scuba diving lesson!
Well Im not going till the end of March, so hopefully it will have cleared up a bit by then.
Is it possible to get any more wet then when your scuba diving...what's a little rain? ha ha