Anilao

Just returned from Anilao, a little burnt and tired. Quite a good trip though. Arranged this trip primarily for cousin Johanna who wanted to get some mileage in as a newly certified diver. Thought she got her moneys worth: overnight stay + gear rental + good food + 7 dives(!) = around $90 US. Diving in the Philippines is really a steal.

We stayed at Planet Dive , which was a no-brainer coz that place has always been reliable and comfortable. Just a bit of a chore to get too 'coz of the rough roads, but well worth it.

Finally had the excuse to do a discovery dive, something that took two years to do. Perhaps thanks to being in the water more this year, that whole bit went without a hitch. No problems equalizing, and all the colorful fishies to see. Our divemaster Carl was cool, and helped Martha out well when she was having trouble with her mask and tank. Being underwater is just about being 'chill' as Gica would put it. Feeding fish and watching the aquarium movie. Evenings spent some time with J just looking at books about molluscs, echinoderms, fish, coral, etc.

Rest of the time, when not enjoying PD's yummy meals (kilawin and seafood curry, pare), we just went island hopping and snorkeling. More fishies. More coral. Last bit was just working on some snorkeling skills 'coz people were tired of going to other places.

Could I imagine getting certified 2006? Perhaps. I think it's just a matter of time really. Money and Motivation shouldn't be big problems. I think I need a dive buddy for this one, someone besides all my other friends who already got their c-cards.

Finally, some color on my skin!