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[derv]

Me again!!

Has anyone done the open water dive course in Brazil? I found the list of centres on the PADI website but can't seem to find any info? We would be looking to do it in Rio, Sao Paulo or possibly Ihla Grande, although I don't know how cheap it is to stay on Ihla Grande , we are going to be cheap and cheerful backpackers.... Or anywhere in between Rio and SP?

Any input would be great!

Thanks v much

[starlagurl]

Hmmm, if you don't find your answer here, you might want to check

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/matrix/

I didn't find anything with a basic search, but maybe you could post a new topic...

[mmbcross]

Hello Derv,

Here are a few more sites in case you didn't find them yet:
Clearest water in the Rio de Janeiro area is to the north at Arraial do Cabo, Buzios and Cabo Frio. Ilha Grande is expensive, but there are cheaper accommodation on the mainland . Look for accommodations around Parati. http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g303503-...iro-Hotels.html
Blogs:
http://www.travelpod.com/blogs/0/Brazil/Buzios.html
http://www.travelpod.com/blogs/0/Brazil/Parati.html
http://www.aquamaster.com.br/open.htm
Prices are in Brazilian Reis, converting at about BRL 1.68 to the USD.
http://www.cursodemergulhopadi.com.br/ (in Portuguese)
http://www.aquadive.com.br/portal/default.asp

http://www.mergulhe.com.br/links.htm (in Portuguese)
This site has tons of links, some of them with English translations.
Lists:
1. Undewater photographers
2. Vessels (Shurmann has English)
3. Dive magazines
4. Wrecks
5. Other web sites
6. Certification

Hope this helps a little
Martin