Roatan

[Rhino]

I'm off to roatan this summer, can anybody tell me the best dive school and the best places to dive, Is it expensive?
Regards Rhino

[alison boler]

Hi Rhino
We dived with the dive shop within Anthony's Key Resort and they were excellent - very, very slick operation. Couldn't fault them. We had an all-inclusive deal there that was very cheap - something like $1000 all in including 3 meals a day and diving but this was some time ago. The island is very poor indeed and tourism was centred on the hotels. In comparison to many islands its very cheap. The diving was very pleasant rather than spectacular. Extremely warm water - no need for any thermal protection even at night, just a skin covering. The reefs tend to be patch reefs with many swim thrus and caves. Lots of small fish rather than big ones. However having said that we saw a whale shark one day - we were in the summer like you so keep your eyes open. Night diving was particularly enjoyable because of the warm water. There's also a research place here you can interact with dolphins. We loved the place - its very idyllic, very very relaxing. Only downside was that there were loads of sandflies - no-see-ums- and they were truly savage. Worse than any mozzies anywhere. American visitors were prewarned and favoured smothering themselves in Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil which either repelled or drowned the insects. Otherwise you could try Deet or take vit b complex before and during your stay which some people say helps.
Have a great time.

Alison