Start with the closest to MBH www.robertsgrove.com

I did my coursework at home then did check-out dives in the warm water!

I went to Seahorse Dive Shop in Placencia. They're all the way into town at the dock area.

My instructor was Elroy. He made me feel comfortable before we got into the water and once we were in. There were only 5 divers in our group, that was good. I don't know if that's the norm, but I'd sure want that for instructional purposes.

Check them out at: www.belizescuba.com

Katievalk; We're thinking of Belize in a week or 2. We really like nice beaches with good shore snorkeling. We are divers and like a combo of not too commercial but not so small that you know each guest. We'd like to do some shore/jungle trips, explore towns, (we've done a lot of Mayan ruins in Mexico and the Yucatan) and diving. We like all inclusives too. Do you recommend the Hamanasi or another place in Placencia. Is it better to stay in North Belize or southern? Which has better diving? We like colorful corals and fish, not so much the large pelagics. I love white sand beaches, aqua water, and snorkeling off the beach after a boat dive. Is there realy a lot of that sea grass? We prefer reefs. You can email me at susan1133@aol.com. Thanks. Susan

The best dive shop in Placencia for beginners, and to get certified, is Splash Dive Shop, owned and operated by a very nice girl name Patti. She is very friendly, as well a knowledgeable about diving. The big resorts are too expensive for the same service. Splash has very good equipment, nice boat, and good guides. Trust me when I tell you that Patti is very good at what she does!! Visit the shop, talk to Patti, and you will see what I mean!

I just returned from Belize and dove with Patty. I feel honored to have had her as my instructor. She is very safety conscious, patient and a great teacher! We had a blast together and I will make my best efforts to return to Placencia to get further certifications through her!

If you want her e-mail. Let me know