Our Rescue Diver Course started last Thursday on 28th of May, and oh, boy, was it intense!
We went to the Dogs Point beach in Sanur and after a few minutes of a boat ride, we arrived on the location where we conducted our training. Water temperature was around 30°C and for the first time I wore only the short Aqua lung wetsuit during the dive. It felt amazing!
We practiced approaching tired as well as panicking diver while keeping an eye contact for the whole time. While carefully assessing them, we had to stay out of their reach and locate their BCD inflator before grabbing them by their tanks. Also, we had to establish positive buoyancy before escorting them to the boat.
Beside master Yoshi, our great instructor, Steph and Simon were assisting with our rescue course assignments. Both of them were super helpful, giving us a lot of extra tips and advices. They were also extremely patient with us polishing our new skills and doing our best to save our “victims”. Thank you, guys, we love you!
Day after we came back to the same spot to finish our rescue training. We had a chance to experience the scenarios Yoshi created for us which were by far my favorite part of the course! He split us in two groups and we had to orientate ourselves under the surface to find a missing diver. As soon as we found the unresponsive diver, played by splendid actor Simon, we had to make sure to ascent with him safely to the surface, initiate rescue breaths and evacuate him ASAP. That was a bit stressful part of the course but also very useful in our further training. I surely look forward to the new assignments waiting for us on the Dive Master Course! Bring it on!
Want to find out more about the Rescue Diver Course at Blue Season Bali?, click here and join us today!
Guess what? I have my first open water students today! Marcel and I will be team teaching with the help of Charlie. I am so excited to put everything I have learned into action! Check back later for some more updates
Guess what guys? I finally made it! I am now a certified PADI scuba diving instructor It was a long road and there are many thanks to be given so here it goes!
So happy!!
First of all I would like to thank my parents, my brother, and the rest of my family for always believing in me and pushing me to reach for my dreams. Without them who knows if I would have had the courage or confidence to go for something like this. No matter what crazy scheme I come up with you guys are always 100% behind me. Thanks so much for always being there. I love you guys!
Next I need to give a huge thanks to Blue Season Bali. Thank you John and Tom for putting all your hard work into the Best Dive Job in the World. This truly has been a life changing! Thank you to Aqua Lung for providing me with a fantastic diving equipment package. This equipment is so great that I actually feel like it is a part of me when I dive, how cool is that? I also need to give a never ending thank you to Henley Spiers (my divemaster mentor) for always taking the time to teach me and explain any questions I had. I have become a great diver and instructor because of your teaching. Also a big thanks to Stefan Schneider for teaching our IDC and helping us become real PADI material! Finally I want to thank Charlie Smith, my first real Bali friend, for the million times she studied with me, jumped in the pool to practice my skills, and told me that she believed in me. I love you sugar!
The Best Dive Job in the World was a difficult competition and it has been a long road to get here. There are so many people that campaigned for me, helped me make movies and run events, and just generally supported me. A special thanks to Jackie Davis for being there for me 110% and being my # 1 supporter! Thanks to Biggie, Kiko, Marisa, Alex, Megan, Crystal, Steph, Anthony, Adam, Leah, Addy, Sunshine Divers, my wonderful 8, and all the others who stood by my side and showed that they supported me. Also a big thanks to Greg Holt at Scuba Radio for recognizing my passion and taking the time to put me on his show. It is a fantastic show for scuba enthusiasts and you should all take time to check it out check it out!
And last but not least I want to thank team awesome (aka team green), Katarina, Beth, Marissa, Tegan, Marcel, and Bryan for going through this whole thing with me. It was a long 28 days and you guys really helped me through. We were a fantastic team and I don’t know what I would have done without you!
Team Awesome becomes instructors!
Wow! That was a lot of thank yous! To be honest, I am sure that there are more people out there that I should be thanking. Don’t think that I’ve forgotten you! My final thank you goes to all those that I don’t know, who read my application or watched my video and supported my dream. This whole thing shows that we have the power to make our dreams come true. Thanks for believing.
We spent the last two days doing a Mock IE at Blue Season Bali. Basically we ran through everything that would be on the IE as a practice run. I passed! Actually we all passed! We are ready to start the real thing tomorrow. Check back on Sunday to find out how it went!
IDC Day 14: open water presentations, DSD workshop, adventures in diving
Today was our last day of IDC. We spent the day diving in Nusa Penida! Our first dive was a drift at SD. It was amazing to be back in the water again During our next dive we went to Lembongan Bay to practice doing the discover scuba diving program. The water was freezing that day, 18 degrees C (64 degrees F)! Tomorrow we start the mock IE. This will really show me if I am ready. Check back in a couple of days and I will let you know how it went!
IDC Day 9: confined water presentation, teaching open water
I did my first confined water presentation! It was really cool getting a chance to run part of a course. I was able to manage the group well and got a decent score on my presentation. I still have more work to do though! We also did a presentation today on teaching open water courses. It was really useful to get more information on how to organize and sequence a course. I know that I will use all this once I start teaching.
IDC Day 10: knowledge development 2, theory exam, confined water presentation, rescue practice
We are trucking right on through IDC. Today we worked more on theory and did another confined water and knowledge development presentation. It is great to practice and get so much feedback from Jon and Stefan. I know that I will be more than prepared when we get to the IE.
IDC Day 11: open water presentations, standards exams
Today we did our first open water presentations and boy was I nervous! It was completely different controlling students in ocean and there were so many more things to thing about! I had to present 2 skill and I passed both Lets hope the same thing happens in the real IE 😉
IDC Day 12: presentations on adventures in diving, rescue, and divemaster, confined water presentations
The best divemaster mentor ever!
Today we spent time talking about how to conduct the adventures in diving, rescue, and divemaster courses. I think the most interesting was the divemaster slideshow. I found myself thinking a lot about Henley and my own divemaster experience. I am really lucky to have been through such a great program. Henley is a fantastic mentor and continues to support me as I work towards my goal of becoming an instructor. Thanks Henley!
IDC Day 13: knowledge development presentations, 4E’s, risk management, confined water presentations
Wow, we are almost done with IDC! Today we did a knowledge development and confined water presentations. We also talked all about the duty of care for PADI professionals and managing risks as dive instructors. I already knew how important it was to follow PADI standards as a diver and instructor, but now I am even more convinced. I am lucky to be doing my internship at a place like Blue Season Bali that puts such a high value on safe diving practices and following PADI standards. It is really important when you look for a dive shop or somewhere to further your diving education that you find a place that is professional and puts diver safety first.
Tomorrow is our official last day of IDC. We are heading out to Nusa Penida to do a few workshops and have a little bit of fun together. I can’t wait to get back in the ocean and do some diving!
IDC Day 6: orientation, theory exams, pool sessions
Today we officially started the IDC! We started the day with Jonathan Cross giving us an orientation about the components of the IDC and the IE (Instructor Examination). It was good to take time to really understand what would be required of us during the IE. I am also totally confidant that we will be prepared after completing the IDC here at Blue Season Bali. We also took some more theory exams for practice. I passed every section this time! Now I know which areas I am weakest in and can take time to study more about them.
Taking a dive theory exam.
IDC Day 7: CESA/descents/ascents workshop, knowledge development prep
Today we go to go out in the ocean, yay! We spent some time practicing the CESA skill in open water. It is proabley one of the most difficult skills to control and asses properly out in the ocean. It was really nice to be able to practice and get feedback from our instructor.
IDC Day 8: knowledge development presentations, confined water presentation prep, rescue workshop
Today we did our first knowledge development presentations in class. I felt really comfortable and it was nice to be up teaching again! We also prepared for our confined water presentations that we will do tomorrow. I have to demonstrate regulator clearing. I have everything all set but I’m still a little nervous about tomorrow. I hope it goes well! I will let you all know what happens. Talk to you soon
Today Stefan presented the e-learning presentations to the August IDC. It was very interesting to think about all the ways I can apply my training as a PADI instructor. One of the coolest things about becoming a PADI instructor is that it allows you to draw from all your past experiences. Worked in business? Great! Worked in marketing? Fantastic! All these skills make you a more valuable employee and allow you to market yourself. Diving is a such a diverse industry and it allows you the chance to really highlight your strengths. I already have some ideas, keep checking back and I’ll let you know how they play out!
IDC Day 6: e-learning, EFR instructor training
Today we took some time to finish up the e-learning presentations and begin our EFR instructor training. We learned about marketing EFR, a introduction/refresher to primary and secondary care as well as care for children. Despite being a long day in the classroom we still had a lot of fun
Refreshing my skills.
IDC Day 7: EFR instructor training
We added a new member to our IDC team today. Meet Carlos, our infant CPR mannequin.
Carlos and Marcel
Today I officially became an EFR instructor! We spent the day practicing what it would be like to teach the course. It was great fun!
We’re EFR instructors!
We also learned more about providing O2 to divers. Here are a few pics.
We are moving right along in the IDC! After a nice long study session with some of the instructors and my fellow IDC candidates I think I finally understand dive physics! If was tough figuring it out but hopefully I’ve got it now. My next study hurdle? Physiology. Here is a little about what we have been doing here during our IDC days.
IDC Day 3:
CV, Equipment, Compressor, and Project Aware Workshops
We started off our day talking about Project Aware and how we can use it as a tool for environmental outreach in our community. As we all know our oceans are facing some terrible challenges, such as pollution and shark finning, and the more we know about them the more we can do to change them.
Next we learned how to disassemble and reassemble basic dive equipment such as regulators and BCDs. This skills are very useful if you encounter basic equipment malfunctions while out on a dive trip.
Putting together our equipment.
Afterwards we had a compressor workshop with the very talented Dayne Pigors He taught us all about filling tanks, bleeding the compressor, and even some information on filling nitrox tanks. Thanks Dayne!
Me and Dayne after the compressor workshop.
IDC Day 4:
Open Water Workshop
Today we had our first day diving during IDC. We headed off to Sanur to do an open water workshop. We spent the morning focusing on how to conduct open water dives 2 and 3. It was nice to practice out in the water. Environmental factors made teaching that more more challenging. I am really enjoying learning with our IDC group, we work very well together It was also the first time I used my new Aqualung wetsuit in the water. I loved it! It fits me great and it was really nice to be wearing a 5mm. No more shivering!
I took another step in my diving education this week. I was lucky enough to be enrolled in a cavern diving course with the very talented Tom West. Juliette, Aoibheann, Lucy (other DMT’s) and I spent 3 days improving our diving skills and learning how to penetrate caverns. This course was really interesting because it forced me to take a long hard look at my diving skills. When entering overhead environments it is very important to be streamlined so that you don’t disturb the bottom. Tom is like a diving god. I was amazed at the amount of information he was able to teach us in just 3 days. I can’t even imagine how much you would learn doing tech with this guy! Going into the cavern was unreal. It feels so small when you are in an inclosed space, but also calm.
Setting up our equipment for our first cavern dive.
Entering the water for our first cavern dive at Mystery Rocks.
As luck would have it we had perfect conditions at Crystal Bay a couple of days after finishing our cavern course. What does that mean? We got to go inside the bat cave (I guess it should be called bat cavern)!!! Most of the time it is not safe to go inside because of the current and waves, but on this particular day conditions couldn’t have been better. We swam upp through a swim through that started at about 14 meters. When you get to the top you surface inside a cave that is filled with bats! Light streams in from a hole leading outside. Pure beauty!
Can you name those fish?!? I can! Humphead Parrotfish.
We spent the last few days doing an overnight trip at Tulamben. Tulamben is a diving area that is about 2.5 hours north of Sanur. It is home to the USAT Liberty wreck, a 125 m ship that was beached after being hit by a Japanese torpedo during World War II and then pushed back into the water when Mt. Agung exploded in 1963. Juliette and I joined Henley, Baz, and Tom MacKenzie on an overnight to assist them with some Advanced Open Water courses. It was a lot of fun and great company!
We also completed our Fish ID specialty while we were there. T-Mac and Henley spend a lot of time going through fish books and drawing pictures explaining to us how to identify different species of fish. Then we completed 2 dives with out slates and wrote recorded all the different species that we could identify. I learned a lot and am now much more comfortable identifying the fish I see while diving. My new favorite, surgeon fish!
Today was my best day diving so far! It is amazing to me how ever dive here just gets better and better! Today we went to an area called Padang Bali which is about half way between Sanur and Tulamben on the east coast of the island. The first dive started out a little rough with a pretty strong current. After the current passed the dive was incredible!!! It was almost like the reef became even more alive after the rough waters. I saw my first cuttlefish!! This little guy was about a foot long and looked like an alien. I was so intrigued by him that I spent about 10 minutes hoovering over him and just watching as he shifted colors. Cuttlefish are part of the Chephalopoda family just like octopuses and squid. They are usually from 15-25 cm long and can be up to 50 cm. They live mostly in shallower waters but can go to depths of up to 600 m. The coolest thing about cuttlefish is their ability to camouflage! As they swim across the reef their skin changes to match their surrounding. It is amazing how quickly and drastically they change. Cuttlefish are also some of the most intelligent invertebrates. When I was watching the fist cuttlefish we saw he was definitely watching me back! You know when you get that feeling and know someone is looking at you? We were making eye contact and I could just tell that he was thinking about me, it was awesome! On our next dive we saw 2 more cuttlefish, a turtle (also a first for me!), a cow fish and a lot more cool nudibranchs. This day was perfect
The day I had been waiting for finally came. I got my own Aqualung diving gear! The staff at Divemasters opened up an hour early to give me first class service when I was choosing my new equipment.
VIP treatment at Divemasters.
When I walked into the store I felt like a little kid in a toy store! I looked around and I couldn’t believe all the stuff I saw; I wanted to buy everything! I started off looking at computers and decided to get a Suunto D4.
Looking at the Suunto D4.
Next we moved onto BCDs. I already had an idea about which one I wanted to buy so I tried on the Aqualung Pearl i3. The Pearl i3 is special because it is designed for women, this makes it much more comfortable in the water.
Trying the Aqualung Pearl i3 BCD.
After that I moved on to regulators. After a lot of thinking I decided to get an Aqualung Legend LX. Everyone told me I would feel the difference breathing underwater. I knew that it would be better than the regulators I had been using, but when I got in the water I was blown away at how easy it was. Breathing out of this reg is almost easier than breathing normally! I also decided to buy Aqualung Slingshot fins. You can adjust the stiffness on these guys so it makes them compatible to many different diving conditions.
Trying on my new Slingshot fins.
Once I got all the essential gear sorted I bought some extras including a dive knife, an extra mask, smb, and a torch. Thanks Blue Season Bali for all this great stuff!!!
Testing out my new mask.
Right now I am on a weekend trip diving in Tulamben. We are doing 6 dives while we are here which gives me a chance to practice with my new equipment. It’s always a little strange when you switch gear and takes some getting used to. Hopefully with the help of Blue Season Bali I’ll soon be a scuba ninja. I’ll let you all know how it goes!
Today we were at Manta Point. I was super excited to get into the water and when we did the visibility was great. Usually it is a bit difficult to see at Manta Point due to the high amount of plankton in the water (which is part of what attracts the mantas), but not today! We got in the water and could see a good 15 meters. We started out Manta search and within 10 minutes we had spotted them! We were lucky enough to see 2 giant manta rays swimming together. And what was even better was that we were the only divers around. Charlie got a great video of our Manta Ray Sighting. It was the most magical experience. The mantas look like giant birds flying underwater. It makes you feel so small when you watch them. As we continued the dive we got to see 3 more mantas making a total of 5! What a great day
Marlies Tumolo - Winner of the Best Dive Job in the World 2012
It has been one year since we announced Kenzo Kiren as the winner of The Best Dive Job in the World 2011. In the meantime, Kenzo has come and gone, having spent seven months with us fulfilling his dream of becoming a PADI scuba diving instructor. We now look forward to welcoming Marlies Tumolo to Bali for a seven-month scuba diving internship as the grand prize winner of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012.
Choosing a winner this year was no easy task, and Jonathan and I have been discussing it for quite some time. Like last year, we understand that this decision will have a big impact on someone’s life and while we wish the possibility existed to help everyone, it is just not an economic reality. For those of you who have so positively influenced and participated in the contest, we’ll stay in touch with some special information about developments for next year’s contest.
It has been my personal pleasure to gain insight into the lives and personalities of you interesting people and I thank you for that opportunity. Once again, I extend the gratitude of our entire family here at Blue Season Bali for your support and participation.
Please congratulate Marlies Tumolo as the winner of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012.
Joe Zeiler – congratulations for winning the second place prize in The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 competition. It is my pleasure to invite you to join us in Bali for one months to complete your Eco Diving Conservation Internship with our team here at Blue Season Bali.
It’s time pack your bags and get ready for some fun in the sun as you will be joining us here in beautiful Bali. Your efforts during the competition have been amazing and you should be very proud of what you have achieved. We are looking forward to seeing you again in Bali as you dive alongside our in house marine biologist, Niels.
We will give you a call later today to see when you would like to come out and join us. You might expect some contact from press as well due to the huge following you have in the contest.
In the meantime, congratulations Joe. We will look forward to diving with you soon here in beautiful Bali!
Jonathan Cross
Tom West
The Best Dive Job in the World 2012
Blue Season Bali
PADI Career Development Center 6570
Good morning from our team here in beautiful Bali. After the first ten days of the month I have taken a much needed day off and we’re now ready for the final phase of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 competition. Today marks the announcement of our second place prize.
Some weeks ago, we sat down and had a chat about all the great feedback we were getting from the entrants and their supporters in this competition. We had planned to give only one prize this year, compared with last year, but make it much more special. However, we realized that there were too many great applicants to pick just one. We decided that all this great support meant that we should offer a second place internship prize as well this year.
Naturally, all of our fantastic Top Ten finalists are in it to win the seven months of instructor training, including equipment and materials with us here on the Island of the Gods. Well, only one person will win that prize, so please have a look at our announcement for the second place scuba diving internship being given away:
1 month BSB Eco Internship (starting from any level)
It is now a scientifically indisputable fact that human beings are having a profound effect on our environment. On an individual basis, we can all take small steps to start improving the situation, and ourselves in the process. Our Eco Internships can benefit you in a number of ways:
• Eco internships are increasingly important for divers looking to gain employ in the diving industry and looks impressive on your resume. As an Eco-Intern you’ll be involved in the day to day Eco Internship in Bali.
• Eco Internships are designed to help divers put their training into practice in a real-life environment and see how they can be part of the solution, not part of the problem.
• Learn more about coral, fishes and the marine environment.
• Show future employers that you are environmentally conscientious.
• Contribute to a global dataset on corals, marine debris and other marine environmental issues.
• Be a more well-rounded and traveled person.
• Plus… hey, it’s cool.
Our Eco Internships are run by our own marine biologist who will ensure that your Eco Experience is educational, effective and most of all, enjoyable.
For each of our Bali Eco Internships, we include all of the following:
Airport transfers (return).
Four (4) weeks’ single accommodation in a local Balinese losmen.
Five days of Eco Internship diving each week – total of twenty days research diving.
At least two (2) dives each day – location of dives depends on the projects ongoing at the time.
Lunch and soft drinks are included on every diving day.
PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty course
PADI Project AWARE Specialty course
PADI Coral Reef Conservation Specialty course
One extra PADI Dive course – Open Water / Advanced / Rescue or PADI Specialty courses (depending on your current certification level)
This Eco Internship is completely free (normally (USD2900) and is a big “thank-you” from our team here at Blue Season Bali for your participation in the program.
If you’re one of the Top Ten, please post here or email us if you would like to be considered for the second place prize (of course, that is, if you don’t win The Best Dive Job in the World). Tom and I are still poring over the awesome entries from all of you, so everything is still up in the air. One thing is sure, we have committed to publishing our decision on the 15th, and we’ll let you know both winners on that date. In the meantime, thanks once again from all of our team here at Blue Season Bali for your outstanding support for The Best Dive Job in the World 2012.
So now we have the top ten finalists and only a few more days to go until we announce the winner of The Best Dive Job in the World competition. Right now we know the top ten but we still have not decided on a winner. Here is your chance ladies and gentleman to have that final push towards winning this competition.
How? Well what Tom and I would like to see is something unique, something we haven’t seen before. Go out and do something that is going to make you stand out in this competition. Perhaps that will tip the scales and help us decide who will win.
As if you didn’t have enough stress already. Have fun!!!!
Today marks the tenth and final announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition. For all of you included in the top ten, well, a huge well done. For those that did not make the top ten I want to thank you so much for your efforts and tell you not to give up on your dream of becoming a PADI Instructor.
Today’s announcement confirms Allie Keen as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Allie your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on her entry. Congratulations, Allie, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Allie:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? When I was 18, in love and travelling the world! I experienced things I never thought I would do and had I not of gone travelling I don’t think I would of ever been brave enough to get in the sea let alone scuba dive!
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why? Kuredu Express, Maldives. I love this dive site as it is has 2 large overhangs teaming with fish and it’s the perfect place to watch sharks cruising by in the blue. The current is usually very strong which adds to the adrenaline rush.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?I would have to say a flint so that I can make a fire and cook my catch of the day, my iPad so I can listen to music, watch movies and play games, and a gorgeous man of course!
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? I would have to say pollution. As population has risen so has pollution. Cars, boats, toxic waste and oil spills are all major factors affecting our oceans.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? Open mindedness – Willing to give anything a try and can always adapt to any situation
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? I would love to click my fingers and be a size 8, sadly no matter how much I work out in the gym I can’t get that small! The only time I have is when I travelled around Thailand for 8 weeks…perhaps living in Bali would help me J
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one! (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) Why did you change your life to become a PADI Dive Instructor and what is the best thing about it?
I had to make the choice of doing the nine to five in sunny blighty (England) or travelling the world. It wasn’t really a hard choice! The best thing about it………well I guess that could be that I am constantly surrounded by happy people. You never see unhappy PADI Instructor, plus I get to live in paradise. I am sure there are more things but hey…..this Best Dive Job in the World 2012 competition is keeping me pretty busy
Ok, so that’s it for the top ten. Well done to everyone….now the hard work begins!
Today marks the ninth announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition.
Today’s announcement confirms Alec Hynek as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Alec your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on his entry. Congratulations, Alec, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Alec:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? The most amazing experience of my life is what I am currently doing right now. For the last 3 weeks I’ve been touring around Europe with my cousin, who is a musician. We have been staying in hostels and couchsurfing for the majority of the tour, and we have been meeting the coolest people along the way. I’ve been filming our adventure to make a documentary of the tour, and I’ve also been rocking out on stage with him sometimes with my ukulele.
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why? I have actually never scuba dived in my life before. I have been wanting to scuba dive for years, and that’s how I found this contest when I was researching certifications and jobs in the field. One place I need to scuba dive at is on the north shore of Lake Superior, it was here when I was a little kid that my interest in scuba diving first started when I talked to some scuba divers getting ready for a dive.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?First thing would have to be an axe. From watching tons of survival shows I’ve learned that an axe is probably the most versatile and efficient tool you could have. Next would be a hammock, because they are awesome for taking naps in. And lastly and probably most important would be a stereo with satellite radio and unlimited battery life, so I can throw awesome beach parties… for myself…
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? While there are several things threatening the oceans, such as over fishing and climate change, I have to say pollution is the worst. It’s been going on for centuries and the effects go across a very large spectrum. Also, it is often the most expensive and time consuming problem to take care of.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? I would have to say my most positive attribute would have to be how open-minded I am. I love getting to know new people, learning about and experiencing their different cultures. I am always ready to try things that I haven’t done before, and also to teach people the things I know. The world is too cool to stick to the status quo.
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? The thing I am trying to get better at is initiating conversation. Once I get started talking I will talk all day long, but I find it tough to walk up to a stranger and start a conversation.
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one! (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) Can I drive the dive boat?
Can you driver the boat?
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the eighth announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition.
Today’s announcement confirms Emily Bowles as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Emily your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on her entry. Congratulations, Emily, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Emily:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? Without a doubt going down in a cage to see the Great Whites in South Africa, due to my passion for sharks from about the age of 8. I finally got to see my hero of sharks up close and personal, August 2008 best time of my life.
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why? This is a hard one as i have been blessed with many great dives. In memory of a great friend Adrian Tiller, and my first cave dive, it would be ‘The Apartments’ off Manly Beach Australia in 2001.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?Stone Flint (for practical reasons,) mask, fins, snorkle (counts as one) and Lord of the Rings (it took me 3 months to read in Oz)
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? Shark Finning would be up there for me as i am a huge shark fan! I get so enraged by it. Of course there are plenty of issues which need to be addressed, too many to put into 50 words in fact.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? Patience
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? My career, become a Dive instructor………..no really, confidence would be the answer.
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one! (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) What are you waiting for?? (get me out there) ……..Just joking – What would you be doing if you were not in Bali in your current role?
I have never imagined not doing what I do…..I would just hope that it was not doing something away from the ocean. Good question, it has made me think!
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the seventh announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition.
Today’s announcement confirms Dawn Doell as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Dawn your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on her entry. Congratulations, Dawn, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Dawn:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? Being my sister’s coach when my Niece was born. I got to cut the cord, hold, feed and bathe her first, I think that is pretty amazing because it is as close to having a child I will be and I have a special bond with my niece….ahhhh the miracle of life…. (learning to dive was pretty darn amazing too!!!)
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why? I’ve dived some exceptional locations, Cozumel, Fiji & Canada. Bali’s my favourite because I’ve been fortunate the have the best buddy. I met Wally Siagian, who has taught me about sealife, conditions, environment, sites & much more. The best was starting Batu Kelebit & ending the Coral Garden.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?
a flint to start fires, mask/snorkel for fishing and another person to keep me sane!!
Ok if I could, I would take all my scuba gear, a compressor and solar panels for power…..
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? Pollution- sewage, industrial waste, garbage, oil spills, I flew over the gulf, the spill was clearly visible, you could even see the black cloud from trying to burn it.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? I HAVE PASSION!!!
In everything I do, I’m positive & passionate. With drive & determination, I chase my dreams, careers & follow my heart. I will jump in with both feet & give 110%. Being friendly, honest & caring while have a commitment to safety and having fun!!
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? I AM the Queen of procrastination…. if it’s not important & I can do it later, I probably will… sometimes I get an adrenaline rush from the pressure of leaving it to the last minute and can think & act quickly on my feet, but I do like the feeling of just getting it over and done with too….haha
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one! (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) what is Jonathan Cross’ story? e.g., where are you from and how did you get where you are??
Oh wow…that’s a really big question. If I didn’t have hundreds of comments to approve and emails to reply to I would answer that one right now. Get yourself to Bali and I will tell you the whole life story
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the sixth announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition. We are really getting close to the top ten now…..keep up the hard work!
Today’s announcement confirms Juanma Lopez as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Juanma your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on his entry. Congratulations, Juanma, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Juanma:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? It started when I boarded the plane for my 8 day all round trip to South Australia. With one final destination in mind, Neptune Islands.
After travelling half the world, 5 flights, 6 airports, 48 hours later, I finally got on the boat that would take me to meet her.
The boat had no sooner anchored when along came the hottest babe I’d ever set my eyes on…
She glided along, strong, powerful, full of confidence.
I couldn’t wait for a close-up encounter, to look into those piercing black eyes.
The location of our rendezvous was through the bars of a reinforced metal cage, 1 meter below the surface.
The first second she swam up close was electrifying!!! It was breath taking, pure adrenalin, big-league impressive, totally mind-blowing!!!!
I was blown away by her deadly smile!!!!
Tinker was her name, she was a 4,2 meter, 1,5 ton pure bred great white shark… awesome!!!
My date with her was undeniably the most amazing experience of my life.
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why? Sipadan, Borneo.
The perfect prototype of a paradise island & a real underwater orgy!!!
Turtles everywhere, white tips, leopard sharks, schools of bumphead parrot fish, napoleon fish, barracudas, bait balls, macro life and… the ‘Turtle Cavern’.
Truly overwhelming!!!!!!!!!
Somebody said once: ‘I have seen other places like Sipadan, 45 years ago. Now we have found an untouched piece of art.’
I totally agree with you Captain Cousteau… Hope it stays the same for future generations.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?
1- Astronaut food, you know the type, lasts a life time, comes in air tight packets & with a whole variety of flavours (it’s making me feel hungry just thinking about it!!).
2- My surfboard of course, what a waste otherwise… stuck on an island, there’s bound to be waves, right?? & maybe later I could use it to paddle off to my next adventure.
3- My ipod with it’s seaweed powered rechargable battery (has anyone invented one of those yet???).
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? This one’s being the most difficult one for me.
The most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans,
where to begin…
– Global warming & Climate change.
– Overfishing.
– Ocean acidification.
– Water pollution.
– Chemicals, Toxic waste and Heavy metals.
– Oil spills.
– Coral bleaching.
How could I possible choose just one????
They’re all as damaging, worrying & shameful as each other.
I’d like to believe we’re still on time…
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? My positive optimistic spirit: I walk through life with a smile on my face! I always see the glass half full, never half empty!
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? My money making skills!!!!
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one! (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) Are cold chilled bintang beers included with lunch???
Only on days off Juanma….lol
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the fifth announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition. There is not long to go now until the top ten have all been decided so if you are not in there yet, it is not too late.
Today’s announcement confirms Uffe Jensen as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Uffe your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on his entry. Congratulations, Uffe, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Uffe:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? That must have been before I was even born. I got to stay in the water for 9 months;-) No, seriously – I’ve been skateboarding, snowboarding, skydiving and bungyjumping, but my most amazing experience ever was the first time I felt absolutely weightless among colorful creatures and wonders of Nature..
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why? The British Virgin Islands, because I was there for 3 weeks, diving or snorkelling almost every day, and I got to see so many different types of animals, chorals and beautiful islands. Especially Virgin Gorda, Sandy Spit, Diamond Reef(nightdive) and the Indians. Awesome diving.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?
Assuming I would have to survive on my own: Fishing equipment, a knife and something to make fire. But if the island was inhabited with cities, I would probably choose: a female companion, a toothbrush and money.
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? Human behaviour! How we overfish and pollute the oceans, and don’t treat the animals and reefs with respect. There should be a natural balance, but a lot of people don’t care or don’t even know about the seriousness of these issues. Ignorance is definately a huge problem.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? Either my ability to adapt into different environments, or my way of connecting with people. I am good at communication, and I am always looking at the positive aspects in life. People like me, and I like people.
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? Tough question. A little bit darker skin, or that I could play an instrument really well, or sing better, dance better? Maybe working with something meaningful like poverty or environmental issues could give me the extra feeling of belonging, like making a difference on a larger scale.
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one! (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) Let’s say I won the competition and stayed after the 7 months, to work as a dive instructor in Bali. Then after a while, if I found a woman, or for any other reason decided to stay in Bali. Would it be possible for me to obtain citizenship, or a permanent residence in Bali? Would I be allowed to own a house or land there? And what are the terms and conditions for such an arrangement? If you don’t know the answers by heart, perhaps you could drop me a link to a web page that holds the answers..
Big question!!! You can try this website for a load of information about this – http://www.expat.or.id/
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the fourth announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition. The finalists are being announced over the first ten days of March and we are yet to finalize the top ten, so keep on pushing!
Today’s announcement confirms Renay Logan as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Renay your support by clicking here? and leaving a comment on her entry. Congratulations, Renay, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Renay:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? Apart from winning the Best Dive Job in the World (!!), it would have to be backpacking on my own for 3 months visiting 20 different countries in Europe in my early 20’s. I meet the most remarkable people, gorged my way through so much food & wine and stayed in some unique places.
Albeit, I’ve had so many incredible experiences that it’s hard to narrow this down to one!
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why?
Sha’ab Sadd, Red Sea.
It was my first fun dive as an advanced diver & my buddy & I went in search of turtles amongst the bright coral & marine life on our last dive together.
After swimming through a cave & not getting lost coming out the other side, we stumbled across a baby hawksbill sea-turtle & spent a good 10 minutes following it at a slow pace admiring its curiosity. The turtle then swam into the distance & a HUGE Napoleon Wrasse came into forefront! It was a mesmerizing dive but I only have 50 words in which to describe it!
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?
If the Island is already considered paradise i.e. abundance of food and freshwater then I’ll take a surfboard. With all the extra time on my hands, I may be able to finally teach myself to surf. Next up would be a portable solar-powered radio & for a companion my adorable, slightly mad Dalmatian, Cooper.
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? Overfishing at sea and wasteful by-catch. It is leading to the decline of marine life, destruction of habitats & the collapse of many ecosystems. It’s a global problem but consumer awareness also needs to be formulated locally in order to start educating people about sustainable seafood/fisheries.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? It would have to be my enthusiastic nature. I’m always full of energy and passionate in everything I do. I like to create a happy and enjoyable environment and I try to encourage this with friends & family.
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? Instead of wasting my time confined inside watching box-sets whilst the weather is miserable in London, I want to be out in the fresh air, getting involved in the community and outdoor activities. Not letting the cold weather defeat me! (Being part of Blue Season team in Bali, would help me achieve this!)
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one! (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) Would you rather be stuck in the ocean with a great white shark or a saltwater crocodile? And why?
It would have to be the Great White as I have never been stuck in the ocean with one of them
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the third announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition. The finalists are being announced over the next few days and to be honest, we’re not yet decided as to who all 10 finalists will be, so there is still time to make a final promotional push on your entry as these announcements are made.
Today’s announcement confirms Ranjit Joseph as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Ranjit your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on his entry. Congratulations, Ranjit, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Ranjit:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? The most amazing experience so far is definitely be my first boat dive, during my Open Water Certification in Redang Island, Malaysia. That was my first time ever being on a boat in the open sea, having just learnt to swim a little, i ventured out on shaky legs. The bahagian wreck was just the most amazing thing I had seen, the crystal clear waters, the beautiful fishes, it was just awesome, not to mention being shit scared at the same time!!
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why?
Having been diving just for about a year and half, the best diving spot I have done so far would have to be Labas island in Tioman, Malaysia.Though not very deep at just around 12 metres, the series of swinthroughs in the rocks is still the greatest things I have seen so far, the tiny nudibraches on it and the amazing marine life.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?
My ingenuinity, perserverance and patience, coz with these three, u can survive just about anywhere!!! oh..add a pinch of humor to that, just for laughs!!
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? Though there’s been a lot of talk and action regarding the environmental issues about our oceans, like everything else, it does not have much impact until people actually and see for themselves what the damage is, as myself, I was not so environmentally aware until I started diving and realised how just a few degree change in the temperature of the water can just wipe out entire stretches of coral life, all the colour gone with just white dead corals left behind. People have to be educated more, and a good way for that is to make more people take up diving!
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? I would say it would be my patience and my ability to make the best of whatever situation I am in!
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? Yeah, now about that super-can-save-the-world power, u say i can have it now ?? :))
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one… (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) Do u have like a small submarine or something by any chance, u know the ones u dont have to decomp to come up ?? :))
You mean like the ones they have in the James Bond movies? Oh how I wish I did!!!!
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the second announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012 scuba diving internship competition. The finalists are being announced over the next few days and to be honest, we’re not yet decided as to who all 10 finalists will be, so there is still time to make a final promotional push on your entry as these announcements are made.
Today’s announcement confirms Marlies Tumolo as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Marlies your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on her entry. Congratulations, Marlies, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Marlies:
What is the most amazing experience of your life? The first time I went diving my life changed forever. I cherish the moments in life where time freezes and you realize that there is nothing you would change. You are purely and deeply happy. For me many of those moments come with raw true human connection.
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why?
My favorite dive so far was my first night dive (Twin Peaks in Koh Tao). I was terrified but as soon as I descended I realized how alive everything was and my fear melted away. My instructor used a special torch that brought out the fluorescents in the coral; it was truly magical!
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?
An endless music supply that could be played whenever I wanted to hear it! My best friend so we could explore, laugh, and have deep heart to hearts. Diving equipment so I could explore the seas! Since this is my fantasy I decided I need nothing practical and that diving equipment counts as one item
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? The destruction of ecosystems through both pollution and over fishing is devastating. We need to show the world what is happening and inspire people to change it. My goal is to teach others, help them feel connected to the ocean, and show them that they have the power to make a difference.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute? I make true connections with all the people that I meet. I open myself up to them and because of that they trust me. I get along with people from all walks of life and enjoy their differences. I love to have a good time and am very easy going!
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be? If I could improve one thing about myself it would be have more of what Buddhist call Samadhi, or being calm and focused. Now and then I get so excited that I am literally jumping around. Sometimes I have to remind myself to take a breath, calm down, and focus.
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one… (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) My favorite thing about living abroad is connecting with local cultures and learning more about them. Have you as expats found it easy to connect with locals? What has helped you to learn more about Balinese culture?
I think the easiest thing about living in Bali is that the local population are extremely friendly. I come from a part of the world where you don’t normally welcome strangers into your world; Bali is totally the opposite. The Balinese are so happy to welcome people into their culture and show you their Hindu ways. It’s a very friendly and rich culture that you will allow you to absorb the Bali way of life.
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
Today marks the first announcement of Blue Season Bali’s top ten finalists into The Best Dive Job in the World 2012?scuba diving internship?competition.? The finalists will be announced over these first ten days in March- in no particular order.? Truth be told, we’re not yet decided as to who all 10 finalists will be, so there is still time to make a final promotional push on your entry as these announcements are made.
Today’s announcement confirms Joe Zeiler as a finalist in this year’s competition. You can show Joe your support by clicking here and leaving a comment on her entry. Congratulations, Joe, for making it into the Top Ten of The Best Dive Job in the World 2012. You have done a great job and we wish you the best of success as the competition moves toward its inevitable close.
Like many of you, we had a quick email interview with Joe:
What is the most amazing experience of your life?
THE most??? What a difficult question! I’ve had a lot of amazing experiences in my life but I guess I would have to say that my move to Japan when I was 21 was the most life changing. The time I spent there opened by eyes to a world beyond my home in Canada; to people, cultures and experiences I would never have imaged.From that point on I knew I’d never go back. Since then I’ve lived and worked in Brazil and Thailand and I’ve travelled pretty much everywhere in between. The amazing experiences that were born from that initial move are still happening!
If you are already a scuba diver, what is the best place you have ever dived, and why?
Last summer I did a night dive under a full moon on the Liberty wreck in Tulumben. The bioluminescents were unbelievable. The entire dive we were surrounded by clouds of fluorescent sparkles igniting, blinking, pulsing and moving all on their own. Me and my guide turned off our torches and just floated in a sea of flashing lights. It was like being in outer space. …oh and there were those 3 free swimming spanish dancers… I heart the USS Liberty.
If you were stuck on an island for the rest of your life but could take only three things with you, what would they be?
Ahhh a question for the ages.. I considered saying “my iPod” but I figured why waste an item on that when I could make my own one woman band out of coconuts and bamboo. I also considered “sunscreen” but that hurts the coral, then I thought “a friend” but being stuck on an island with one person for the rest of my life might mean “friend” turns into “former friend” So…
1) a hat – good for me and good for the coral
2) a BIG notebook and a pen that never runs out so when I’m long gone people will know all about my amazing island adventures
3) a cat – almost as good as a friend but much less complicated…and maybe it could help me catch dinner
What do you feel is the most pressing environmental issue threatening our oceans? I don’t think we can say that one issue is more pressing than the next. Instead, I think that the biggest issue threatening our oceans is the lack of education out there about how our actions affect the seas. Every environmental issue our seas are threatened with are the result of human actions. Being a SCUBA instructor would allow me to show people the beauty of the ocean and in turn teach them to think about how their daily activities and purchases are impacting the sea and the creatures that call it home.
What would you say is your most positive personal attribute?
I’m friendly and outgoing and I’m driven. I put 110% into everything I do and I try to always do it with a smile on my face. Joe Zeiler’s glass is always half full
If you could improve one thing about yourself, what would it be?
When I get super excited I get so eager to say stuff that I end up cutting people off when they’re talking or interrupting them….oh wait…were you done asking your question??
I also have a huge typo problem (as you may have noticed from my posts on the blog)…sigh
And finally, you get a chance to ask me a question so make it a good one… (and no, I can’t tell you quite yet if you will win!) ahhh the pressure!!!
What has been the most amazing experience you’ve had during your time in Bali and at Blue Season Bali?? Why?
Now that’s a hard question to answer Joe; I think it will be easier for you to come to Bali and see what all the fuss is about. The experiences are immense.
Ok, so that’s it for today. Tomorrow I will announce the next top ten finalist. Stay tuned!!!!
This is the 1st time that I’ve preferred the written than the other exercise! Vomiting, temperature, stomachache were the lightest feeling I got when I had to write an essay. But now! This the most natural, easiest, suitable… way to express myself and transfer the excitement while explaining
Nothing happens by accident. Yesterday I got the news for the contest from my sister. Actually I have been looking for it lifetime. Couple of years I have been wondering whether my current occupation is my dream job and life, whether it corresponds to my spirit and soul.
Working as an Internal Auditor in a big corporation makes my living but does not make me really happy. Meeting suit and tie~ dressed people, working mainly with the tools from the Windows Office packet as my main activities do not embody my childhood dreams.
I have to underline the word “dreams” that has nothing to do with the term “human needs from the Maslow pyramid” – namely security, home, appreciation, self – esteem, etc. that you can achieve by different kind of engagements and the best way is by feeling pleasure and satisfaction every day.
Peter Dimov - Best Dive Job in the world 2012
Now may be you will ask: “But isn’t it your current status exactly what you have strived for? Do you have an idea how many people at the moment haven’t had your chance and want your position?”
And my answer: “Yes, but:
I was almost 3 years old when my father, a professional scuba diver, met me for the first time with underwater world when I dived from the vessel, where he used to work, when it was on a mission at sea.
It was in 1984 during the summer when I accompanied my father during the punching construction works at the Varna port. I made scuba-diving together with his colleagues, being the youngest member. I pulled him impatiently in the water while he was putting his mask, causing a joke among his colleagues ‘how can he fix tetrapods at the port when he could not control a 7 years old boy in the water’.
I was 5th degree in the primary school when I attended the village library during the summer holidays at my grandparents. I had a long list with fiction books being necessary to be read. Then I took another ones with plots for animals and nature. It was not vainly – during the Biology classes after the holiday there was a question from the teacher whether we could give an example for a symbiosis between animals. You can guess that I was the only one with right answers (clown fish and sea anemone; cleaner fish and the shark) receiving an excellent mark as a reward and … a lot of followers from my classmates.
Peter Dimov - Best Dive Job in the world 2012
It was in December 2010 when I got my PADI OWD certification in Egypt as a sign that I was returning back from “the capitalism” to my inward and natural valuables.
In 2011 I got my skipper license for a seagoing vessel up to 20 GT and made cruises at the Black seaside. It was 2 months ago when I started to think about a family business with yachts and sacuba-
diving. Suddenly in the last month I received an offer to join the yacht team of the biggest yacht company “LZ yachting” in my born town Varna and now there are ongoing negotiations.”
The given arguments above may sound to you more like statements from an audit report rather than funny stories from an amusing novel from a vivid and enthusiastic adventurer. For me they are signs from the destiny that I had to regulate my compass in life because I had a contradiction with my business watch ticking very fast.
I know that the choice for the prize is hard to be made for me. Blue Season Bali, believe me we will meet – either when you will reward me or later when I visit Bali island on a private trip. You cannot postpone so much that fascinating moment.
Here in Bulgaria we have the proverb “The alga is the problem for the bad scuba-diver”. For me the most important thing is that I don’t have a problem, I am on the right way to my mission, I don’t have excuses, later or sooner we will meet and even now writing my written entry I become more happier and happier feeling with the skin what is my real essence.
So yesterday I learned about the Best Dive Job 2012 contest and was immediately very very eager to win this thing. Coming home late from the office I would record a screen capture video where one could see me typing things like “Hey there, I’m Jens. I’m 30 years old. I work as a lawyer. This is how I look like.” I would then shuffle a nice picture to the desktop.
Then I’d refer to the fact that I consider my job to be rather boring. How dealing with legal problems all was turning me into zombie. I’d then show some pictures of me looking bored, ugly and with zombie make up. I’d explain that I tried to spice the office life up with all kinds of stuff, that I tried acting in my free time but still had the feeling that spending so much time at a desk was sucking life out of me. I’d then show a picture of a very dead indoor plant.
Jens Platen – Best Dive Job in the World 2012
All the time you could see parts of my desktop background that shows my feet on a beach pointing at the sea. This would be the crucial twist to show that it is me who is the person that absolutely has to become Blue Season Bali’s 2012 PADI instructor. Happy pictures of me at the waterfront – some shirtless – would follow. Jack Johnson would sing in the background.
I’d mention that I’ve done scuba diving only once, on Sardinia last summer, and that I absolutely loved it; that I grew up sailing with my parents on the Mediterranean quite often. I’d eventually thank everybody for watching and ask them to vote for me.
Jens Platen – Best Dive Job in the World 2012
After collecting and sorting the pictures I recorded the whole thing and had to face the fact that it lasted almost five minutes. I cut for hours and managed to get it down to a minute, but the entire “story” was kind of gone and you could clearly see that parts were deleted. It wasn’t nice anymore, it was clumsy. So, around midnight, I deleted it all and went to bed feeling really frustrated.
Today I’m taking some time off of work to write my 500-words-last-minute- application. Without most of the nice pictures and without any Jack Johnson. I’ll see if I can find a nice portrait and hope so desperately that this contest isn’t all about the nice editing that I couldn’t do because I had too little time. But guess what? In your head you’ve already seen it all, right? – And man, do I look cool with my shades on or what?
Don’t let me dry up at my desk having to deal all day with other people’s legal and whatever problems: Bring me back to the water!
To me, this opportunity is like a dream coming true.
Since I came across this competition on the net, my life has been different because something new has happened in my life.
I had my first dive 6 years ago on Kish Island and got my Open Water certificate 2 years ago in Bali. Since 6 years ago, I dreamed of becoming a PADI instructor but it was very far from my ordinary life. Now, with this competition, I feel it is becoming closer to me. I will never forget my first dive into the silent, mysterious life under the sea. The new world was vast, attractive, tranquil, untouched and exciting. Under water absorbed me like a magnetic field. Little by little, I learned the interesting rules and met the gorgeous inhabitants. I also learned how to be a friendly guest in that unlimited environment with those various species.
I am 31, male, single and a stock broker from Tehran, Iran. I have a 7-4 job and I work 6 days a week in an office. And I have been doing the same job for 10 years. I am sociable, punctual, organized, reliable, experienced and up to date. Since I meet people with different social, economical and cultural backgrounds, and they usually have a wide range of questions and expectations; I have to be polite, patient and understanding. During these 10 years, I have always been popular with the clients.
There is nothing wrong with my present job. A lot of people my age may even wish for that. But it has no excitement and I never long for the next day to come.
I may look a popular, successful and interested broker, but sometimes I feel “trapped”.
The more I continue, the less I get.
People may call me “insane” if I say goodbye to this regular, stable life style, but I know deep in my heart that I have to leave and I feel the need for a change.
And to me, this change lies only in becoming a PADI Instructor where I can live my life “under water” taking help from international professionals at first and giving help to universal beginners later on.
I would love to meet large number of people from all over the world with different backgrounds, sharing the same interest. And I would be one of those people who can teach them the common language used underwater.
Die Slowly…
Dies slowly he who transforms himself into the slave of habit,
repeating every day the same itineraries,
who does not change a brand,
does not risk to wear a new color and doesn’t talk to whom he doesn’t know.
Dies slowly he who makes of television his guru.
Dies slowly he who avoids a passion,
who prefers black to white
and ……..
“Pablo Neruda”
Shortly after my open water course in 2008 I had one of my most memorable dives. HMAS Swan, an Australian warship 372ft long, decommissioned and sunk off the coast of WA. Descending it was the scene out of Titanic, nothing but blue misty sea. Slowly this immense object comes into focus. Swimming around and through this ship just lying peacefully on the bottom of the ocean was one of the most incredible things I have ever seen!
After that I joined the Australian Navy. It was a great experience, all I wanted was to be a Clearance Diver but the day they told me I never would just because I was colour blind was a very disappointing day. I finished my contract and walked away, they couldn’t offer me what I wanted.
I then decided I wanted to be a Commercial Diver. 8 week after full time courses and intense study I qualified as an ADAS Part 2 Commercial Diver and was in search for work. Work didn’t come quick. I went to all the dive companies and called them every week but they were all fully crewed. I finally got a chance with a company based in Fremantle but they only needed me for one week. A 3km pipeline needed to be video surveyed. As I was the new guy, I was the diver’s attendant and didn’t hit the water for the week, but I still enjoyed myself. I realised I should have completed the 3rd commercial diving course which would have giving me more opportunities, but I didn’t have the money.
I got stuck in a dead end job at a pub, hating myself for not progressing, but I was saving up for Europe with my mates. Before we left I decided that I needed a change, I applied and received a 2 year UK working visa. We went all throughout Europe, met some amazing people and saw some incredible places. This world is amazing and I want to see all of it!
Chris Harrison – Best Dive Job in the World 2012
For the last 8 months I have been living in London, I realised my goal is to be an Instructor and I have almost finished my Divemaster. Teaching open water students and seeing their faces light up when they have successfully mastered a skill like reg recovery and replace is a great feeling. Having that conversation with them after they get out the water asking “mate how’d ya go? You enjoy that?” and the student replying with let’s go again! really gives you the feeling of joy and satisfaction.
It’s always been, and always will be diving. I’ll do whatever it takes to get there. Once I reach Instructor my journey won’t end there, one day in the future I’ll have my own dive shop and give back to diving what diving has given me, purpose.
To become a PADI Instructor is my goal right now. To be given a chance like this would be incredible!
By my watch, as I look at it right now, you 34 hours to get your entry in for the Best Dive Job in the World 2012 competition. On midnight (Bali time) of the 28th February I wont be accepting any more entries. It doesn’t matter what your excuse is, that’s the deadline. Last year someone tried to tell me that their dog attached their computer and so they had to send it late. Sorry ladies and gentleman but a deadline is a deadline.
You have all done a fantastic job so far and I hope that you can all be patient as we go through the final process.
Starting on the 1st March, we will be announcing the final ten candidates for the competition. Each day we will announce one of the top ten, in no particular order. If you are in the top ten then you need to keep up the hard work , get more support and who knows, on the 15th March it could be your name that we announce as the WINNER of the Best Dive Job in the World 2012.
So, if you haven’t got your entry in then do it now!
That is why I want to win this contest, so I can change my life completely.
Hi! My name is Juan Manuel, I am 31 years old and I live in Buenos Aires, Argentina. At the moment I am working as a video editor in a TV sports channel. I have studied sports journalism and I am also a sound recording technician. My job is fun but it is a sedentary one. That is why on my free time I enjoy doing sports. I love full adrenaline outdoor activities which represents a physical challenge to me. I like to put myself on the edge all the time. Some of the things I do are climbing, diving, snowboarding, football, basket, skate, long boarding and I also swim.
This year I decided to take the Dive Master course. So last week as I was investigating about it, I found this opportunity and I could not still believe it. Dive Master is free? and in Bali? Free for real? Are you kidding me? This is just what I was looking for. So I never doubt it and started making my video…
I want to escape from town and all its contamination (transit, smog, noise, paranoia, violence and stress), leave it all behind and be on that Paradise surrounded by nature. Giving all my energies, strength and effort to the diving practice itself. I am not going to explain to you what is like to be under deep. Opening and closing my eyes into that fabulous world… you know that magnificent feeling… I want it to be my every day!!!
I want to feel the weightless of water, the adrenaline of going deep into the unknown. I want my every day to be an adventure. I want to see new places, cultures, ways of living, landscapes and all kind of animals. I find peace by being in nature and I believe Bali would be the perfect spot for it. Because off its beauty and unlimited fun.
I am excited to be able to teach others about diving and showing them the choice they can make to find this natural and unique world.
I have an Advanced PADI course made. I hope to be ready to learn all what you have to teach. I am willing to do whatever it takes to make this gold and accomplish my dream of seeing the sun rise and die behind the sea…at least the next 30 year of life!!!
Yours JMT
Juan Manuel Tejero - Best Dive Job in the World 2012
1- Iran championship of Semi Contact karate: Third place.
2- Iran championship of Kano Polo: second place
3- Iran canoeing championship: Third place
4- Iran canoeing championship: Third place
5- Member of Azad University swimming team : 2000-2001
“Why I want to change my life and become a PADI Instructor”
Actually I have sporty background and my biggest wish was to be Olympic champion but unfortunately I forced to leave the sport world for long time until when I have traveled to Thailand.
I usually look for new experiences so I tried a 1 day PADI diving course in hotel swimming pool and I found it very awesome .I tried it again in turkey in the sea and I just understand that what the underwater word mean.
I tried the lot of sports before but I found the new things that I have never experienced before in my life during the diving .when you dive you find the deep calm, when you dive you can feel you are separate from busy world, when you dive you feel great team work and cooperation and I believe people can get close together when they are separated from busy world.
I love diving and I believe I can rich to thing that I love by hard work .if I have the chance to be a diving instructor I will be able to share this experience with other people.
I am sure that I can help the others to find these feelings fast, easy and safe and enjoy it!
I have enough good reason to and become a PADI Instructor.
The only reason that I have never tried the diving courses was lack of good diving centers and instructors
In my living place For example telephone number of the some famous diving institutes are wrong or when you call you find that they left their office and they didn’t changed the phone numbers in web site so .it show me that they may not be up you date in other critical issues!
This is the thing that I want and I always try my best to get what I want.
Why I want to be an instructor? When I was a little boy I looked Jacques Yves Cousteau films. It were my favourite films. Then I have told to myself I will to dive and dive as he and his command. But near to my town there is no sea or any big lakes. There is no diving here. But I necessarily will become an instructor. BECAUSE I love sea! It is my dream! It is my life!
Anton - Best Dive Job in the World 2012
Why I want to become an instructor? Why people want to become instructors PADI? I do not know, but I dream to live under water. You do not belive? Unless I am not similar on man-amphibian? Why? When I was small me teased a goose when I studied at university me called ichthyandr. And I want to teach of people to be a dolphins and mermaids of course !!!
When I had first time dived with scuba in swimming pool of Novosibirsk in 2009 I did such strong stroke by mine fins that my instructor could not catch up with me. After my first dive he has said to me: I see shine in your eyes, probably you too sometime will become an instructor.
October 2011 Hurgada. 10 fantastic days. Moray with large teeth and ridiculous octopuses, serious barracudas and cheerful fishes-parrots, prickly lion-fishes and fishes-crocodiles, multi-coloured corals and many other things.
And in December we put a under ice fur-tree. It was simply super! Water was very warm just +2 degrees, air temperature of all -20 degrees. Regulators had to give hot water because they was cold. And they couldn’t work. They became on free-flow. And we change to bubblemakers!:) To a fur-tree dived groups through an ice-hole. I dived in last group. My suit has iced over also it I looked very funny and I hardly could move.
Anton - Best Dive Job in the World 2012
Recently to me has had the luck to clean swimming pool the huge vacuum cleaner. A brush was such huge that I hardly could move it. It was amusing from outside. But I do not have any photographs L
Look at my pictures! I will to teach people from all over the world! I began to learn English only for it!
I real frog, dolphin, sea-bear! And where is my mermaid? I think under sea!
Throughout my 7 month stay in Bali I have met several great people and made friends from all over the globe. Unfortunately, since my home is literally on the far side of the world from Bali, I haven’t had many visitors. Many had plans to make it out but due to last minute complications and high flight costs, many had to pull the plug on their visits to the island of the gods.
Thankfully, just as my time in Bali neared an end I got a visit from my parents. My mom decided to come out a week earlier than my dad to take the Open Water course with her son who was now a PADI instructor. My girlfriend, who had put her open water course on hold until I became an instructor decided to take the course as well so I was faced with the challenge of teaching my mom and girlfriend and the same time… Something that many would say was an ambitious task to take on… To thicken the plot even more so, I got hit with a sinus infection during the tail end of day 1 of the course. Luckily we got through confined water 3 so we did what we could and finished up with the book work and put the rest of the open water and pool sessions on hold. When we finally were able to continue nearly a week later, we were off to Sanur for dives 1 and 2. Unfortunately my girlfriend has problems with motion sickness so almost immediately after setting out to see, we had that barrier to deal with. On top of that, conditions were less than ideal and surface winds were picking up but in the end we were able to get dives 1 and 2 finished without any puking and looked on to graduation day in Tulamben.
We arrived the next morning and conditions were perfect. We didn’t have to deal with boats and thus no sea sickness issues so all was looking promising… Upon entering the water some complications arose. Both Danielle and my mom seemed to be dealing with equalization problems so we took things slow and had to spend extra time getting everyone down safely. After a lengthy decent were able to complete all the necessary skills and explore the wonders of the USAT Liberty wreck. Spirits were high after surfacing as now we were only one dive away from a week long open water course. On dive number 4 we were once again faced with equalization issues and after the constant up down pressure changes I was staring to feel slight pain in my sinuses. This was a worrying feeling considering I was just coming off a sinus infection… Luckily once again we managed to get down, finish all the skills and went for an amazing dive ending off with a visit from 4 blacktip reef sharks. I must say, after all the open water students I have congratulated this one was truly special. What a great feeling to be able to certify my mom and girlfriend! Their is always a rewarding feeling coming up from dive 4 and congratulating your student on their success but this was truly unique.
Apart from the open water experience with my mom, I took my parents on the grand tour of Bali. After spending 6 months exploring the island I had a pretty good grasp on things to do and see. My mom the more adventurous of my parents went for a ride on the back of my scooter on a scenic drive up to Tana Lot. We did a volcano climb up Mount Batur, explored many beaches, and toured Kuta, Semenyak, and Sanur. My dad who wanted a more relaxing holiday enjoyed the many flavourful foods of Bali and took part in many massages. I must say I had to take part as well. Throughout my entire stay in Bali prior to my parents visiting I maybe had 3 massages, in the 2 weeks they were here I think I had about 10. We also went up north to the beautiful Blue Season Zen resort to celebrate my dads birthday and spent 2 nights over in Lombok. All in all it was an excellent finish on my time in Bali. My parents got to see where I’ve been living the past 6 months and I got to show them all that Bali had to offer.
Why do I want to change my life and become a PADI dive instructor? Are you kidding? Who wouldn’t want to? Sun, water, new friends, amazing memories and all the diving! Not to mention, infinite bragging rights! (Hehe, but mainly the diving and friends part!!)
Maybe, I should first tell you a wee bit about myself! My name’s Sophie, I’m 19 and I live on the coast in Victoria, Australia. I love my family, my friends and adventure! I may be young, but I know that this experience is something I would be able to manage. I would cherish it and absolutely thrive in such environment. Last year I went travelling through Europe, UK and parts of South East Asia for 6 months – at times with others and at times by myself – and since coming home I have not been able to settle, I miss the excitement of making new friends, of every day being something new and of endless possibility!
For as long as I can remember, I have had two passions in life; diving, and travel. They are a part of me, and a part of my family, and I cannot imagine a life without either. My first dive was when I was 12, and with that I was hooked! In the ocean, I feel as though I am in my second home. My family is hugely important in my life, my mother, father and brother are all extremely close. Scuba diving is something we have been able to enjoy together, perhaps this is one of the reasons diving holds such a special place in my heart.
Sophie Hantz - Best Dive Job in the World 2012
At the moment, I am about to begin my first year at university. I am to do a Bachelor of Law/International Relations. University is something that has always been expected of me, however, at this point I am at a crossroads. While I understand the importance of a university qualification, the idea of being stuck in Australia at university for the next 5 years seems incredibly depressing. With this degree, I hope to eventually run an aid agency or development project in some part of the 3rd World. Friends and family accept this plan, however, my secret fantasy is slightly different. I would really love to run a dive operation in an exotic part of the world. Perhaps with the skills I would learn from this adventure in Bali I would be able to marry the two goals into my ideal life’s work! Maybe I could set up a dive school that teaches divers to respect the ocean and it’s corals and creatures. Or, perhaps I could create an orphanage in Thailand for children with HIV/AIDS right next to a dive operation so the divers could come to play with or teach the kids in between dives? Who knows!! The possibilities are endless – I get so excited just thinking about it!!
So, there you go – this is me, I’m bright, fun loving, caring and adventurous! This dive job is perfect for me.
Introductions first, as they say. Meet me, Mike Lenzen, a 29 year old unemployed Canadian boy who has the pleasure of travelling the world with my wife, Ashley. We’ve been honing our photography and writing skills, while keeping in touch with our friends and family through our travel blog. Together we’ve seen and done some wonderful things. To give you a taste, we’ve climbed four volcanoes, seen seven world heritage sights, spent five weeks learning Spanish, and logged over 100 dives in Utila, Honduras where we lived and dove for three months. I absolutely love diving!
Please keep reading! It’s probably about here that you’ve decided to toss this entry aside. I know that if I were in your shoes, I’d be thinking, “Gee, this Mike fellow sure has a nice life. This prize should go to someone a bit less fortunate. Someone who’s going to appreciate it.” But, I’d be wrong.
The truth of the matter is that I’m just seven months ahead of this competition. You see, I’ve already begun to change my life, and it wasn’t because I won the lottery or had a rich family. I had to do it the old fashioned way – working hard and saving up as much as I could. It took seven years behind a desk, but eventually I was able to quit my job and sell our house, our car, and pretty much everything else that doesn’t fit in my backpack.
Just eight months ago this introduction would have looked more like this… Meet Mike Lenzen. An overweight 28 year old engineer. He’s a flat-lander from the prairie province of Saskatchewan. For those not familiar, Saskatchewan is a land so flat, you can watch your dog run away for three days. There’s more truth in that than you would think. Southern Saskatchewan has no mountains, not much for trees, and basically no lakes worth diving in. That means no hiking, canoeing, or diving without driving in one direction for 8 hours, and another 8 hour drive back.
So instead, I spent my time working at a desk, staring at a computer screen, answering phones, and getting fat. It was not a bad job, as far as jobs go, but with the ridiculously low number of annual holidays us North Americans settle for, I wasn’t doing the things I liked and I wasn’t very happy.
I know that I love diving, I love my new life and I want to become a diving instructor. I’ve been out of the office for the past seven months, and it suits me. I love the sun, the mountains, the lakes, and the oceans. As much as I miss my friends and family back home, I know I can never live there again. You can help make my new life permanent. Give me the chance to become a SCUBA instructor, and I’ll do it until the day I die. And I’ll die happy.
My name is Patric Lundell and im 26 years old. Im borned and live in Sweden. First I need to say I would suit as a hand in the glove for this job. My life has this far been a travel and searching for succes. I have been playing icehockey all my life since I was 5 years old, for a couple years ago I had a bad knee injurie and couldnt continue my goal to become a very great icehockey player. After that failure as I saw it I felt pretty sad with myself and that was very good for me to learn more about myself and what is important in life. I always been very serious about things that Ive done and kinda lost the fun of doing things. But now when I realized that I have strarted to become a much more happier guy with lots of energy for life. I took my Advanced Open Water Diver course couple years ago and I havent been able to dive as much as I would like to because of icehockey and work and studies. In long future I see myself as a Fireman with a lots of good experience from life. I love that I send you this mail cause it only shows for myself that I feel free to do what I really want.
I see myself as a very positive and social guy with a lot of energy and Im not afraid of doing new things. Im not afraid of doing mistakes as I realized you need to try to improve your skills. I love humour, and practical jokes is my favourite. To tease with folks is in my nature. I never been to Bali but it sounds pretty cool, not as cool as Sweden ofc, but it would be awesome to see something new.
As I roll into my final week here in Bali I can’t help but think how lucky I was to be given this opportunity. Just 7 months ago I was packing up my life back in Vancouver, saying my final farewells to family and friends not having a clue how drastically my life would change after the best dive job experience. After all that is what the 7 months in Bali was about, the experience. From the start of course my focus was to concentrate on my training and excel in every aspect as a diver and ultimately become a PADI Instructor, but Tom and Jon also conveyed the importance of really just soaking up every minute and to see and experience everything that Bali had to offer. They set up things like river rafting and elephant park safari for both myself and second place prize winner Priscilla Ong and of course many other things were left to discover and adventure for myself along with the many interns at BSB. With our 1 day off a week, we always set up a new location to check out which always ended in a rewarding and fun filled experience. From Kuta, to Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Uluwatu and Ubud, there was always some new places to see and somewhere else to look forward to. Now, with only a week left, I feel that though I could easily spend another 7 months here on the island of the gods, but I have definitely seen much of the incredible island, the people and the unique culture that Bali has to offer.
The first couple months were great. I was a baby in the diving world and started at BSB with my advanced course, Emergency First Response and rescue. It just so happened that 2 other people were just starting the Divemaster program, so right off the bat we were all doing our courses together and developed a great friendship. Like I mentioned in one of my earliest blogs, BSB had sort of a backpackers type atmosphere where different people from around the world would pop up here and there for various lengths of time and would immediately join the family of interns and the BSB family bringing another element to the group. The Divemaster course was one of my favorites as there were several other interns on the program and we went out everyday as a group and doing several different workshops, went on trips with guests and were led by insrtuctor Mandy who was incredible making the experience as fun as it could be. I arrived right in the peak of high season when the Mola’s and mantas were seen everyday and around the center, there was so much going. It was a great challenge to learn fast and keep up with the pace of a busy dive center and see how everyone had to do their part to keep the place running smoothly. It’s amazing how much you excel as a diver when you’re in the water literally almost everyday of the week. It’s fair to say, my bouyancy is superb, my skill circuit is 5’s across the board and my guiding skills have improved 10 fold thanks to the many great Indonesian guides with thousands of dives of experience.
The training I’ve received from the distinguished team over Blue Season Bali has certainly molded me into a confident, knowledgeable and motivated instructor. I can’t thank everyone enough over at BSB for not only the training they have provided but the entire experience I have been given since packing my bags what seems like forever ago. Unfortunately, I’ve been battling a sinus infection for the last 2 weeks which has kept me from enjoying my final month of free diving but hopefully I can get healed up in time to at least get in some final dives. So as of right now, no real diving experiences and photos to share but hopefully the final blogs will have more of that.
For now I got to get packing and make the most of my final days in Bali which I wish could be spent diving but I’ll make the most out of a frustrating situation and enjoy the sights, people and food… Sit back relax and follow along as the Best Dive Job 2012 contestants go through the same nervous days I went through one year ago. Best of luck to all of you, I’m sure the winner will be most deserving!
