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10 Belize Scuba Tips

By: Karsun

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you want to try out one of the best diving spots in the world then you'll want to go to Belize, but before you go, use 10 Belize scuba tips so that you can have a safe and enjoyable time.

  1. Plan Ahead. Since Belize is another country for most, you'll want to plan your trip well in advance so that you're not having to scramble around when it's time to visit. Have an idea of where you want to stay, when you want to go and how long you'll be there. Treat it like any other vacation you would plan for.
  2. Learn about the area. Learn all you can about Belize. It's a tropical area with the second largest barrier reef in the world. It's about 700 miles or so south of Miami, Florida and is near the Yucatan Peninsula. Expect temperatures in the 80's and 90's.
  3. Know the weather. Since Belize is in Central America, the weather is pretty tropical most of the year, so plan on hot weather that is a little cooler in the mountains. July through November offer your best diving months unless there is a hurricane or tropical storm.
  4. Learn about the best dive areas. Whether you want to dive the infamous Blue Hole or visit the barrier reef, there are many places to explore when scuba diving in Belize such as Glover's Reef Atoll and Half Moon Caye National Monument.
  5. Always have a partner. Just like with any other diving adventure, you'll want to have a partner with you at all times unless you are an expert diver. A partner can notify someone to call for help in case you get into trouble while diving.
  6. Check your equipment. Make sure that you check your equipment long before you plan to dive so that you do not hold anyone else up or have to postpone your dive due to a faulty tank or cracked lens. Make sure your tank lines are clear, your mask is free from cracks and your tank is fully functional.
  7. Find a reputable guide. Choose someone that has experience with local diving and has been in business a while. You can get references from the locals but ask around in case someone is getting a kickback for sending business. You want a guide that knows what they are doing so that your dive will be as safe as possible. Ask the locals or do online research before you go. Remember that organic reviews are always best.
  8. Take a diving bag. If you are going with a group, then you'll want a diving bag to keep your equipment in so that the boat is not untidy and unsafe. Be sure to bring everything that is suggested and anything you'll need or may need such as your scuba gear, fins, mask and dive suit.
  9. Take medicine and water if needed. If you have a tendency of getting seasick, then you'll want to take some kind of seasick prevention medicine because some people get sick underwater just as they do on a boat. If you have a sinus infection or cold and don't want to reschedule your dive, take something with you that is of the non-drowsy variety.
  10. Reschedule if conditions are unsafe. If the weather is bad and the visibility is low, it is a good idea to reschedule if possible, so your diving trip to Belize is safe.

Now that you know these Belize scuba tips, you can enjoy your trip and don't have to worry about knowing what to do to stay safe.

Posted on: Feb. 18, 2011