The Fascinating Pulisan: What to do there

Eastern part of Indonesia, such as Sulawesi, Papua and so on have been widely known as the real, unspoiled natural beauty of Indonesia. For divers, East Indonesia is somewhat the last paradise on Earth. Bunaken has been dubbed as the jewelry of Indonesia. Its wonderful marine life attracts divers from all over the world. However, if you are between Bunaken and Lembeh Straits, you will find one of the most wonderful paradises for divers (as well as non divers). The heaven is called Pulisan.

If you want to reach Pulisan, you can get there from the capital of North Sulawesi, Manado. From Manado, you can get to Pulisan by car or public transport from Manado’s Paal Dua bus terminal. It takes about 2 hours by car.

Pulisan now becomes one of diving destination besides the bustling Bunaken. The best thing is there is a diving center in Pulisan that really feeds your hunger as divers. Pulisan Jungle Beach Resort has much to offer for both divers and non divers.

This diving center in Pulisan is ready to take you to amazing 40 dive sites around the dive center. Be prepared to be stunned by its most unusual critters, sponges, coral and a variety of feather stars in Lembeh Strait. Under the water of this strait, you will find some enormous shipwrecks from World War II, which have turned into reefs. No wonder Lembeh Strait is the best spot for underwater photography.

In addition to the thrilling water of Lembeh Strait, some rarely visited dive spots are also equally beautiful, like Batu Mandi and Paradise Jetty. You will be happy exploring the beauty of these sites, accompanied by the center’s professional guide. All the sea creatures are there to attract your attention. This dive center also arranges day trips to world famous Bunaken National Park, with its richness in fish species and coral reefs.

Pulisan Jungle Beach Resort has several tour packages you can choose. From Snorkelling The Offshore Islands (the price starts from 24 Euro per night for family bungalows, double room) to Two Volcanoes Tour that takes you to the most active volcanoes in the island: Mt.Lokon and Mt.Mahawu.  In addition to the volcanoes tour, there is also land tour to Tangkoko National Park Jungle Reserve where you can see some exotic species from kuskus, Malkoha Bird and Tarsier spectrum.

For divers, the most exciting package is, of course, a tour to amazing Bunaken Marine Park. It takes two hours on the boat and this center is ready to take you explore the northernmost coast of the Minahasa peninsula. You will stop at three different location suitable for snorkelling despite being known as the best diving spot. The underwater scene is dazzling, as yo can see hanging masses of corals, angelfish, clown fish and lots of unique under sea species. There is a local restaurant that serves lunch before returning to the resort.

The price for dive starts from 10 Euro (for unguided House Reef Dive) to 520 Euro per person for 20 dives. While for snorkeling, the packages include full day snorkeling trip (25 Euro per person) and Half Day Snorkeling Trip for 20 Euro. All are for 4 persons (minimum). The Joint Snorkeling on the dive boat is 10 Euro per person.

As there are lots of activities you can do there, no wonder this place is considered as the best diving center in Pulisan. Discover the hidden beauty of Sulawesi by visiting this enchanting paradise.

Exploring Selayar Island: The Unspoiled BeautyYou Must See

Island, in South Sulawesi, Indonesia is less popular than the neighboring Bunaken for sure, however, Selayar Island is actually dubbed as the hidden paradise for divers. This enchanting island is rich in biodiversity, both marine and on land, as well as crystal clear water. Selayar Island is the gateway to the Takabonerate ( in Bugis local language, it means “coral pile up the sand”) National Sea Park, the world’s third biggest atoll after the Marshall Islands and Maldives. Even many divers say the diving environment is more beautiful than Bunaken. In addition to the colorful underwater, this island has 40 dive spots suitable for both newbie or expert divers.

You can get there by car from the capital Makassar, but it takes about nine hours. Alternatively, there is a direct flight from Makassar to Selayar, operated by SMAC, an air charter. It takes only 45 minutes by plane.

This island is one of the most terrific diving destinations that starts attracting divers from all over the world. Do you want to know some great divings center in  Selayar Island that helps you arranged your dive trips?

Selayar Island Resort

This small and beautiful resort is equipped with professional dive center. The instructors are PADI certified who are ready to provide what divers need, whether they are beginner or professional divers. Moreover, this resort also provides 12 additional dive spots for day-tours to different atoll.

This resort does not only arrange a tour package for divers, but also for those who want to explore the beautiful land of Selayar. There are lots of activities besides diving and snorkeling you can do, from playing beach volleyball to joining sightseeing tour.

On the West and the East Coast, the rate is Rp. 250.000,- per dive. ­The rate of  Rp. 1.000.000,- is  for 1 transport and local boat (Jolor) minimum 4 persons (East Coast). Jolor itself is a local boat made of wooden material and powered by diesel car engine.

The room’s rate varies from 90 Euro per night for Standard Room (double occupancy) to 190 Euro for Suite Room (double occupancy). Breakfast is included. For single occupancy in room, the charge will be 75 percent of rates.

Selayar Dive Resort

This resort has one of the best diving centers in Selayar Islands. The center itself is in the middle of the resort, full with a complete set of diving equipments. The best thing is they have no fixed dive times as they always try to offer the best time for guests then the guide will choose times in accordance with the moon, respectively the tides. It does not take too long to reach the dive sites.

The price of the resort room includes two-boat dives and unlimited house reef diving per day, accommodation, all meals and welcome drink as well as the government fee for the National Park. Rental gear, apart from tanks and weighs are excluded.

Hope you enjoy your diving with these top diving centers in Selayar Island. Keep in mind that you must not harm the undersea creatures while being underwater. Keep the water clean and of couse, the diving centers participate in encaouraging you to appreciate the beauty of the marine life in Selayar waters.

Lembeh Island: The Paradise You Can’t Miss

If you go diving in Bunaken, North Sulawesi, make sure you also visit Lembeh Island. Located in Bitung, the second city in the province after Manado, Lembeh Island is one of the most attractive diving spots which displays untouched underwater beauty, unlike the busy Bunaken. In addition is its marine life, consisting of exotic species such as ­colorful nudibrachs, mandarin fish, ghost pipefish, frog fish, rhinopias, shrimp, blue-ringed octopus and rare pygmy seahorses. Therefore, this island is also a perfect spot for underwater photographers.

To get to this beautiful island, you can fly to Manado first then continue your trip to Bitung by car. From the harbor in Bitung, you can take a boat to get to Lembeh Island. Additional info, there are numerous airline services that provide direct flight to Manado from Jakarta, Surabaya, Bali, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

From novices to diving experts, this island has much to offer as there are 30 amazing dive sites. Its colorful fish and coral adds the beauty to this diving spot. That is why you cannot simply forget this perfect paradise.

So, where can you find diving centers in Lembeh Island? Here they are:

• NAD Lembeh Resort

Situated in the beautiful Lembeh Strait, this resort has ten rooms and four bungalows that displays eco-friendly design. The rooms are airconditioned, along with free Wi-Fi Internet access in most areas. Last but not least, hot water is also provided in each room.

NAD has a typically daily schedule, starting from light breakfast at 6.30 AM to several dives to night dives. Besides that, there are various dive packages that include meals, hot drinks and water. You can choose the packages based on your preferred accommodation, whether you choose beachfront room or seaview bungalows. The price is more expensive for packages including seaview bungalows.

NAD Lembeh Resort is the winner of Tripadvisor traveller’s choice 2012.

• Immanuel’s Dive Center Daniel’s Resort

One of the most experienced diving centers in Lembeh Island. The packages here are quite affordable, from 210 Euro (2 nights per 4 dives per person) to 545  Euro (7 nightsper 17 dives per person). The prices also includes accommodation with meals, free coffee, tea and drinking water, minimum 2 divers (double occupancy), single diver (additional 20 Euro from the price) and transport fee ( day time).

If you prefer not taking the package, the price for full fear diver starts from 27 Euro to 80 Euro per person, and for non gear starts from 30 Euro to 85 Euro. The first aid kit and oxygen are provided in all of their boats.

• Two Fish Divers

Another top diving center in Lembeh Island. This center offers personalized service as divers are put in small groups (no more than four guest per guide). You will enjoy the most unforgettable diving experience accompanied by their PADI trained dive guides.  Moreover, the dive center and the resort is right on the beach, making it easier for you to explore the dive sites in Lembeh Strait.

The resort also have a wide range of rooms that suit your budget. So, for backpackers, this resort can an ideal place to rest and enjoy your dives. You can choose the packages including accommodation, from luxury cottage to budget room.

One thing you should keep in mind, do not forget to enjoy underwater photography experience in Lembeh. It is simply unforgettable.

Karangasem: The Other Exotic Side Of Bali

It has been never enough to explore Bali as this magnificent island has a lot to offer to visitors. From exotic temples to white sandy beaches, Bali always has something to amaze you. Karangasem is one of Bali’s most wonderful tourist spots. This regency is home to Bali’s most famous volcano, Mt.Agung, dubbed as the “Home” of the Balinese gods. The volcano’s last eruption occured in 1963, killing more than a thousand people and leaving peole homeless. On the slopes of Mt.Agung, you can find the most sacred and legendary temple, Besakih Temple. There are 22 other temples in this 3 square kilometers complex.

Besides Besakih Temple, one of the best attractions in Karangasem is Candidasa. If you want to relax and avoid the crowded in Kuta, Candidasa is the best option for you. There, you can see the genuine Balinese culture in the most famous Bali Aga (original Balinese) village. The people there still retain an ancient pre-Majapahit Balinese culture. However, visitors are advised to visit the village in Tenganan as it is easier to reach and and far more welcoming of outsiders. However, Tenganan is closed to visitors after dark.

How to get to Karangasem? You can go by the direct shuttle bus from Kuta that leaves at 9.30 AM (a good way to avoid Denpasar). Alternatively, if you are from Ubud, there is also a shuttle bus that departs at 8.15 AM and 4.00 PM. These buses also provide the return journey.

As there are lots of things to do there, diving is also one of the most favorites activities in this amazing spot. There are some top diving centers in Karangasem that will give you the most exciting diving experience during your holiday in Karangasem:

• Bali Bubbles Diving Center

One of the top diving centers in Karangasem, this dive center is an ideal place to start your diving experience and course. Bali Bubbles offers a wide range of courses, from Basic Level Diving Course (ranging from Scuba diving for US$ 105 to Open Water Diver PADI that cost US$ 425) to Specialty Courses. There are various courses offered from Equipment Techniques specialty (US$ 100) to Deepdiving specialty course (US$ 250).

The equipments provided are specially designed for dive centers, so you are sure that this dive center prioritized the safety and comfort for its guests.  In addition, there are several packages you can choose, from intensive diving to packages including accommodation (staying at 4 star hotel Rama Candidasa Resort and Spa). Make sure you check the price list as the prices are subject to change.

• Scuba Seraya Resort

The dive center is considered one of the best diving centers in Karangasem, let alone Bali. This resort is PADI resort assocation member, so you fully understand and safety and quality are their priority. The prices of diving course start from Rp. 800.000,- ( Introductory Course) to Nitrox course (Rp. 1.500.000,-). For dive rates, Rp. 300.000,- per person is for Shore Dive and Rp. 420.000,- per person is for Tulamben Region Boat Dive.

This center really gives you the opportunity to explore most of Bali’s enchanting dive sites such as Alamanda, Emerald, Batu Niti and many more.

• Deep Blue Tulamben Diving Center

Owned by a Czech, this resort also offers dive course and dive trips, starting from 60 Euro (Amed-Jemeluk Bay/Lipah Bay/Selang Beach/Japanese Shipwreck with 2 dive) to 100 Euro ( Nusa Penida-Mantan Point/Crystal Bay/Gamat Bay/Blue Corner). The best thing is there are some special discounts for night dives, diving without guide and also non divers who take a part on some dive trips.

Enjoy the beauty of Bali underwater and feel the excitement!

Diving in the dazzling Jimbaran

It is impossible to miss Jimbaran while spending time in Bali.  Once a backwater of Bali, this area now has become one of the hottest tourist spots in Bali with the presence of various accommodation, from 5 star resort to budget hotels.  Furthermore, this area is also dubbed as “Beverly Hills of Bali” because of high-end villas on the high ground of Jimbaran Bay. However, nightlife is limited there as most venues close after 11 pm. Maybe only a few people who know that Norwegian University, Gateway College is also located in Jimbaran.  The university has  around 500 students studying a wide range of subjects, from sports to journalism.

It is easy to get there from the airport as Jimbaran is south of Ngurah Rai International Airport and it takes about 10-15 minutes by taxi. The cost is around Rp. 60.000,-, but depends on which part of Jimbaran you are heading. From Legian and Seminyak, it takes 20 minutes drive and 30 minutes from Sanur via Ngurah Rai bypass.

For the lovers of water activities, Jimbaran is one of the best options for you.  From swimming to surfing to diving and snorkeling, you will simply enjoy these kinds of activities. Are you ready to enjoy the most fascinating underwater experience in Bali? Here are some recommended diving centers in Jimbaran to choose from:

• Pigmy Bali Diving

This diving center in Jimbaran offers an exciting diving experience in some top dive spots in Bali. There are various attractive dive day trips package and tailor made package based on your request. You can choose dive safaris around Bali starting from 2 days and 1 night to 6 days and 5 nights to all Bali’s amazing dive sites such as Shark Point and Candidasa Bay. Alternatively, you can enjoy treatment in their luxury-spa dive package. The prices start from US$ 295 to US$ 775.

Like all diving centers, Pigmy Bali Diving also offers accredited PADI diving course, ranging from ­PADI Open Water Diver, to PADI specialist courses. All instructors are friendly and highly trained, so you do not need to worry about the safety. The courses’ prices start from US$ 145 (Introductory Diving) to US$ 545 (Diver Rescue Course) for five sessions.

• Scuba Libre Bali

The only diving center in Jimbaran that offers special program for macro, mud and muck diving in Bali. Macromania is a program for underwater filmmakers and photographers which takes 4 days 3 nights dive in Bali’s top dive sites. They take maximal and minimal two divers for one guide. The price for safari is US$ 410 per person (own equipment), including rental equipment US$ 450. 9 dives, 3 nights accommodation in an air-conditioned room with hot water shower, all transfers at sea and on land, lunch are included in the price.

While you are there, do not forget to taste Jimbaran’s most exotic grilled seafood and watch the striking sunset on the beautiful beach. Hope you enjoy your unforgettable underwater experience in Bali.

Bunaken: A Must Visit Heaven for Divers

Generally, eastern part of Indonesia is often dubbed as the untouched paradise as they really boast the real natural beauty of Indonesia. The island of Bunaken, in North Sulawesi, has been one of the most visited diving spots both in Indonesia and the world. It is home to some of the highest levels of the world’s biodiversity. 7 of the 8 giant clams species in the world are in Bunaken. Even though the exact numbers of fish species is still unknown, Bunaken is believed to have more fish species than the Phillipines alone. 70 percent of all fish species in Indo-Wester Pacific Ocean are found under the waters of  this amazing island. Besides its amazing sea creatures, this island is famous for its crystal clear water. No wonder this beautiful place attracts divers from all over the world.

You can reach this incredibly amazing island by boat from Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi. It takes about 45 to 60 minutes. A  public boat departs daily except Sundays at 2:00  to 3:00  PM from the canal on the north side of Manado market. The cost is Rp. 25.000,- one way for tourists and Rp. 10.000,- for locals. It returns to Manado from the jetty in Bunaken village around 8:00 to 8:30 AM every morning except on Sundays. Alternatively, you can go to Bunaken by chartering a private boat from the Manado harbor (behind the Celebes Hotel).

Needless to say, diving centers there are abundant. Here are some top diving centers in Bunaken you can visit:

Raja Laut Dive Resort

One of the best resorts with diving center in Bunaken. Keep in mind that this resort only accepts reservation for divers and those who want to learn how to dive. You must book your reservation by email. In addition, they require a deposit of 25% on the quote (50% for Reservation regarding July or August) to be made by bank transfer (Italian bank account) or via Paypal (+5% Paypal fee). The balance must be paid cash in Bunaken (Euros, U.S. $,  Indonesian Rupiah).

You are under the certified instructors there, which some of them are Italians, so you know you are in the right place to learn how to dive or continue your course. From this center, you will be taken to most of the main dive spots such as Bunaken Timur (East Bunaken), Muka Kampung (Front of the village) and so on. There are also other less known but equally stunning dazzling dive spots you cannot simply miss there.

For accomodation, make sure you know that the price set in high season is always higher than that in low season. For example, for superior bungalow with sea view costs 35 Euro per night, while in low season the price is 30 Euro.

LumbaLumba Diving

You can do a lot of activities here as this place has much to offer, from diving center to spa facilities. You can explore to 30 wonderful dive spots with LumbaLumba Diving. The service is excellent, this place really makes you feel at home.

The prices are subject to change therefore, it is suggested that you always check the price list that is valid until certain period. Like the price of single chalet is 55 Euro until the end of this year. Starting from January 1 until April 30 2013, the price will raise to 57 Euro.

You can have your dive trips arranged there. Do you want to watch closely the stunning coral reefs? You can join House reef dive accompanied by the center’s professional guide.

Bunaken ChaCha

No matter whether you are a pro or newbie diver, this diving center is always open for you. No wonder they claim as a ‘non diver friendly resort’. The course is tailored to suit what you need. For divers who have not dived within the last six months, it is a must to complete a Refresher course conducted by instructor before joining in dive groups.

Talking about the accommodation, just take a look at all cottages here. All are made of local timber, and special care and attention has been paid to detail to build this accommodation that reduce impact on nature.

There is an alternative you can try if got bored underwater, a tour to Tangkoko Nature Reserve Tour arranged by ChaCha. This national park is home to amazing flora and fauna, good option for conservationists.

Well,  there are some great diving centers in Bunaken. Make sure you participate in protecting the creatures. Do not step on the corals, do not make noise and do not take all the living things home. Happy diving!

Enjoy diving in Alor

Indonesia is home to lots of enchanting dive sites. Mention some of them, from the beautiful Raja Ampat, Papua to peaceful Gili Trawangan in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. All boast their natural underwater beauty that cannot be missed. Besides all those places, there is one more divers’ paradise that you cannot simply ignore, Alor.

This island of Alor, part of East Nusa Tenggara province, is located between Flores and Sawoe Sea. This island poses untouched natural beauty, surrounded with crystal clear water and of course, 60 dazzling dive sites. No wonder this island is dubbed a diver’s Mecca. The most unique thing about Aloris that you can feel the different sea water temperature while diving. You can feel the warm water on one side, but when you move forward, the temperature is cooler. It is because the island is the meeting point of two currents.

Once considered a remote area, now the archipelago is easier to access. You can arrive in Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara from Jakarta, Surabaya or Denpasar then you can continue your trip to Alor by TransNusa airlines, a carrier that offers flights to some destinations in West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, Bali and Makassar.

There are several good diving centers in Alor. Despite its reputation as one of the world’s dive destinations, some of dive centers here are run by expats. Here are brief profiles of those diving centers in Alor:

• Dive Alor Dive

One of the best diving centers in Alor. Make sure you book in advance as this center is always fully booked, especially in high season. This center is more than just a diving center as it really arranges your trip from scratch. As Kupang-Alor-Kupang flights are not available online, you can have your flight ticket  booked, purchased and confirmed for you for free.

This center is run by Donovan Whitford, a PADI Divemaster from Australia. He is very generous and well-known for his personalized service for all guests. In addition, he often offers discount such as free unlimited diving (normally 18 Euro per dive) and free full equipment rental (normally 18 Euro per day).

• La P’tit Kepa

Run by Cedric, a friendly Frenchman. This is the first land based dive operator in Alor, in Kepa Island. This center is also considered as the most affordable dive center in this island. You can dive twice per day, but if you want more and try a night dive, they can arrange it for you. From two up to five dive, the charge is 28 Euro per dive (equals to package with 56 Euro per two dives for one day). Do you want to dive 18 times or more? The charge is 22 Euro per dive. Boat trip, dive guide, snack & hot drink,  tank & weigh are included.

The accommodation here is really unique. The bungalows are made of bamboo and coconut trees, that shows respect to local culture. The price is affordable, from Rp. 175.000,- to Rp. 600.000,- for exclusive bungalows for single occupancy.

• Alor Divers

Alor Divers is considered as the most expensive dive center in Alor. However, there are some packages available for non divers who want to enjoy the beautiful island. Diver packages start from 969 Euro for 6 nights or 5 full days to 1790 Euro for 13 nights or 12 full days. While for non divers, the price starts from 520 Euro for 6 nights or 5 full days and 980 Euro for 13 nights or 12 full days.

Make sure you pay 25% deposit in order to confirm your booking (by bank transfer). They do not accept credit card yet.

So, what are you waiting for? Let us go diving in one of the divers’ paradise in Alor.

Where to dive in Manado

Talking about Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi, Indonesia will cannot be separated from Bunaken, one the most famous marinepark. Needless to say, you will be exposed by the enchanting waters of Bunaken and a lot of activities you can do there as there are around 30 top dive sites in that beautiful place.

Besides that fact, the city of Manado is the gateway to Lembeh Straits, one of the mut-see muck diving sites in the world. With all those facts, it is clear why Manado always attracts divers from all over the world.

There are so many resorts with diving centers in Manado that can cater your needs. Here are some of them:

• LumbaLumba Diving Manado

One of the best dive resorts in the city. 20 minutes south from Manado, outside the city, and it takes 50 minutes to get there from Manado’s Sam Ratullangi airport. The diving center is awesome, one of the best diving centers in Manado. The resort is also beautiful and tranquil, the best place to relax your mind and body. Make sure you check the price list regularly as the prices are subject to change.

• Thalassa

Another diving center in Manado that offers the best diving experience with flexibility. Enjoy the wealthy Bunaken water and make your wish there surrounded by colorful fish and stunning corals.

This center also offer a wide range of diving courses, whether you want to learn how to dive for the first time or you want to improve your skills. All the instructors here are certified and they prioritixe safety and comfort. From PADI Discover Scuba Diving (US$ 40) to specialized skills to open water (US$ 495), all are available there. If you are not a diver but still want to enjoy the beauty of Bunaken, you can join Bunaken Sightseeing Tour or explore the natural beauty of North Sulawesi.

There are also some dive trips and packages you can choose, ranging from night dive (torch is exempt) for US$ 50 to snorkel day (2 trips) including lunch, guide and use of equipment for US$ 40.

• Gecko Dive Center

This center also offers various course programs for all divers, from total beginners to professionals. Gecko dive center is managed by PADI certified instructor from Holland, Ron Sierveld. Like other dive centers, this center is equipped with a complete set of diving equipment very competitive prices. If you want to explore the wonderful Bangka Island, this center is more than just happy to arrange your memorable dive trips.

• Nusantara Diving Center and Resort

This center is very easy to access. It takes only 15 minutes from the center of the city. Keep in mind that this center is a pioneer of all dive centers in Manado (established in 1975 by the late Mr.Loky Herlambang). Under the new management, this place offers four leading producst: diving center, spa, resort and accommodation.

There are still some other dive centers in Manado, but hope this information help you arrange your wonderful dive trips in this beautiful city. Make sure that all dive centers do not only offer dive service, but also encourage you to participate in preserving and protecting the marine life underwater.

Where to dive and What to do Senggigi

When Senggigi is mentioned, what comes to your mind first would be the beautiful sandy beach that gives you the peace of mind. Well, Senggigi is one of the main tourist destinations in Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.

If you think it is hard to reach this place, actually it is not as difficult as you think. From the island’s capital Mataram, it takes only 15-20 minutes by taxi. Both airport and metered taxis are avaialble for the connection from the airport. However, airport taxi are only for passengers arriving at the airport and requiring transport to some places of interest across the island. Airport taxis cannot take you to the airport when leaving the island.

Alternatively, you can reach Senggigi by airport bus. There is a public bus from Lombok International Airport that serves passangers who travel to and from either Mataram or Senggigi. The 8 DAMRI buses are air conditioned and have a capacity of 40 passengers. Moreover, the DAMRI buses also leave the Mandalika terminal every hour and continues to the airport. The bus starts departing at 04.00, while the last bus leaves at 19.00. If you want to experience something different, you can take a small public transport called bemo. A public demo can be seen inside the parking area of Ampenan Market and it only cost you Rp. 5.000,- (excluding extra charges for the luggage you carry).

For divers, Senggigi is one of the famous paradises. If you are wondering where to find diving centers in Senggigi, here they are:

• Blue Marlin Dive

Blue Marlin has several branches in this island and considered as one of the best diving centers in Senggigi. This center is a 5 star diving operator that committs to providing the best quality of service and prioritizing the safety and the comfort for divers. Blue Marlin also offers diving course ranging from courses for beginners to diving masters. The instructors are PADI certified, so you know that you are in the right hand. There are some services this center can offer, whether you travel by yourself or in group with friends or families. If you prefer packages that include accommodation, Blue Marlin can happily do that for you.

• Blue Coral Diving

Another top diving center in Senggigi. Set up in 1993, this center is the first PADI resort member in the island of Lombok.

There are lots of activities you can do here. For those who have never dived before but want to learn how it feels to be under water, you can take the introductory dive course for Rp. 1.100.000,-. For the dive masters who want to improve their skills, there are some courses available, from open water course (Rp. 3.600.000,-) to PADI Dive master course for a professional diver (Rp. 7.700.000,-).

This center offers tour to explore the enchanting dive sites around the Gilis island and Lombok. For 2 dives, the price is Rp. 700.000,-, 3 dives is Rp. 850.000,- and 2 dives plus 1 night dive is Rp. 900.000,-. There is also snorkeling trips available which cost Rp. 150.000,-. The prices include equipments, transportation from hotel (at Senggigi area) to dive sites, dive master or guide and mineral water (lunch is excluded).

 Actually, Senggigi is not only about diving and a fascinating beach. There is also a Hindu temple overlooking Senggigi beach, named Batu Bolong (batu means rock, bolong means hole). You can watch one of the most wonderful sunsets there. Besides diving and snorkelling, kayaking, trekking and biking are some activities you can do in this amazing place.

Top Dive Centers In Candidasa

Words cannot describe how amazing Bali is, making it the most popular destination that attracts visitors around the world. No wonder Bali is even more popular than Indonesia itself among tourists. Bali is often associated with the crowded Kuta beach or Sanur. However, if you prefer a more relaxed holiday, maybe you can visit Candidasa, a small but beautiful coastal town in East Bali.

You can easily reach Candidasa from Ubud, Kuta, Sanur, Lovina and Padang Bai by the national Perama shuttle bus company. Make sure you book in advance. If you want to go directly by car from the airport, it takes about 90 minutes drive. Alternatively, you can get there by using a bemo, a public transport from Denpasar’s Batubulan terminal.

There are lots of things to do there, from day trips to Tenganan village, where its community still retains pre-Majapahit culture to diving as Candidasa is known as the point of departure for the most exciting dive spots in Bali. There are several top diving centers in Candidasa to choose from:

Besides Kuta, Sanur is one of Bali’s most desirable tourist spots. Known as a beach town, it never stops appealing visitors, mainly middle-aged and older families from Europe. It is more expensive than Kuta but more affordable than Seminyak. The best thing about Sanur is you can feel relaxed amid the abundance of accommodation and restaurant.

To get to Sanur, there are some alternatives. If you want to go there directly from Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can go by taxi and it takes 20 minutes. Besides that, you can choose shuttle bus or bemo from the north and south as well as from Tegal terminal in Denpasar.  Additionally, if you are from Nusa Lembongan, you can go by boat that arrives at the end of Jalan Hang Tuah.

For divers and snorkelers, Sanur may not be one of the best dive destinations, however some of well-established diving centers in Bali are located in Sanur. Here are some recommended diving centers in Sanur:

• Atlantis Scuba Diving

Atlantis is an established brand associated with diving. This dive center started its operation in 1996 in Sanur and now it is one of the most favorite diving centers in Sanur. In addition, Atlantis Scuba Diving is also one of the longest running dive operators in Bali which is renowned for its professionalism and warm service. The instructors-mix of Indonesians and expats-are friendly and ready to guide you dive in Bali’s top dive sites.

The facilities and equipments are world-class and there are many things to do there, from taking dive course to join dive day trips.

• Enadive Center

This is the oldest diving center in Bali (started 24 years ago) and one of the biggest diving centers in Sanur, let alone Bali. There are abundant of choices there, from dive course to day dive trips to some attractive dive areas such as Topekong, Amed, Padang Bai and so on. The price differs from one dive site to another.

Moreover, this center also offers dive packages and courseto choose from. For dive packages, you can choose whether you want to dive for 7 days or even 14 days. Morover, if you also want to visit Lombok, there is also Bali-Lombok dive package.

For non divers who want to watch beautiful fish in Bali’s waters, there is Underwater Walk program. You do not need to worry if you are too afraid of being in the water as their professional guide will accompany you so you can enjoy watching hundreds of colorful fish in a safe manner. You only need to bring your swim suit, sunscream and voucher of payment, no diving equipment needed. The rate is US$ 58 per person.

• Bali International Diving Professional (BIDP).

The older dive operator in Bali, more than 25 years of diving experience in Bali. No wonder this center is also one of Bali’s favorite dive centers. Their professional dive guides and instructors are certified and ready to cater your need, no matter whether you are a newbie. This center provides dive package for people with disability as BIDP is the only certified member of ­ the International Association for Handicapped Divers in Bali.

The prices for 1 day dive trips differs depending on which dive sites you choose. For example, 2 dives in Padang Bai costs you US$ 105 and the price for 2 dives in Tulamben is US$ 85. There is additional cost for extra dive (US$ 30).

So, come to dive in Sanur and feel the difference!

This dive center is located on the beach of Candidasa in front of hotel Puri Bagus, a hotel built in traditional Balinese style. There are several courses offered in this dive center, from beginners to advance divers. Online booking is highly recommended as you will get fewer rates. For example, if you book online for SSI or PADI Scuba Diver course, the price online is 171 Euro, less 19 Euro than the original price (190 Euro). For beginners, they can practice in a comfortable pool. Their professional instructors are ready to guide and teach you the basic skills of diving.

The policy is also applied for their dive packages. You can choose dive packages from 3 Day Package (max.2 dives) for 162 Euro (online price) to 12 Day Package (max.2 dives) for 594 euro (online price).

In addition, there are several half day and full day trips to several enchanting dive sites such as Menjangan, Nusa Penida and many more. Unfortunately, you cannot book online for these packages. But still, this newly dive center is one of the best diving centers in Candidasa.

Sub Ocean Bali

This operator is a PADI certified diving center in Candidasa, with professional team who are fluent in English, Dutch, Italian, German and Spanish. In addition, Subocean has some attractive trips to Bali, including diving, fishing, snorkeling and accommodation.

Like other PADI certified operators, Sub Ocean offers dive courses ranging from newbie to advance, with the price starting from 65 Euro (for PADI Scuba Review) to 195 Euro (PADI Nitrox Course).  Book and certification are included in all the prices.

From this center, you can start exploring some top dive sites in Bali such as Amed, Tulamben, Gili Tepekong, Nusa Penida and many more. The price depends on how many dives and is different from one to another. For extra night dive, the cost is 5 Euro per person.

Alam Asmara Dive Resort

This dive resort has a slogan: More than just a dive resort. Honeymooners will fall in love easily with this place as there is Asmara Cinta Wedding package that fits for young couple. The price is US$ 2.877 net, while the dive package is US$ 880. The deluxe bungalow is equipped with top class facilities such as spa, pool, laundry and many more.

For food and cooking lovers, this resort also offers cooking class in their Rendezvous Restaurant. You will be able to learn how to cook traditional Balinese cuisine. You can also shop the basic ingredients in traditional markets and feel the difference.

Feel the sensation of Bali’s underwater by diving in Candidasa’s top dive operators. Happy diving!