Most people select a fin based on looks, and I’ll admit that cosmetics are a consideration for me too. But, there are several other types of things to consider when choosing a fin. These include: whether you want a traditional ‘paddle’ fin, or you want one of the newfangled ’split’ fins. “What’s the difference?” you may ask. Well, there are tradeoffs with each given style and shape, and no fin is perfect for every application. Also, you have to take your boot (or foot) shape into consideration when choosing a fin. These considerations are just for starters, read on for the full scoop.
Continue Reading August 10th, 2006
Picking a travel guidebook is like putting yourself into the hands of a complete stranger. It can make the difference between being on an idyllic getaway on the white shores of turquoise waters, or landing yourself in harm’s way. In this sense, the travel guide you choose is one of the most important choices you can make, even though you make this decision long before you head off the airport runway.
For divers, the options are quite slim for all but the most popular (and overrun tourist) destinations. Up until now, I’ve been able to find regional dive travel guidebooks with good coverage. But, drawing conclusions on a comparative basis between the available books is a shot in the dark, at best. When either trying to put together an itenerary that stretches across different seas, most divers have to turn to a travel agent or someone who has been to those places. Beth and Shaun Tierney recently provided a third option, their new book – Diving the World.
Continue Reading August 7th, 2006
