Before embarking on your underwater endeavour, new divers will need to take a diving certification course. Your dive school will require you to fill out a general health form to ensure you are physically fit to dive. If you answer yes to any of the questions, you will need to submit a doctor’s certificate stating you are healthy enough to dive and do not have any conditions that would keep you from diving.

Prior to heading below water, it’s important to prioritize health and safety. In case of an emergency, you should always be aware of the nearest doctor, hospital and recompression chamber.

Keep in mind that you may need to spend time sorting your insurance coverage, as most policies do not cover diving since it is considered a category of its own. Remember to ask questions regarding any limits on the number, type, depth or length of dives you can take. Some policies may also require additional payments in the event of a claim. In addition to covering medical expenses, a policy should cover the cost of lost, stolen or damaged equipment and the cost of transportation to the hospital.

Here’s a list of important contacts to keep on hand in the event of an accident. Be sure to call the listed hotline numbers or use the appropriate app, in case you encounter an emergency along your journey. Stay safe and bon voyage!

Please note that timings may vary depending on the city and stores. Keep in mind that Friday mornings are best for shopping, but expect most establishments to be closed between 10:30am and 4pm.