Latest news with #PADI
Forbes
5 days ago
- Forbes
‘Skill-Cations' Provide Options For Personal Growth And Enrichment
'Skill-cations' provide a wide array of hands-on experiences. It's never too late to pick up a new skill, and more travelers are seeking opportunities for personal growth even while on vacation. In fact, immersive experiences continue to shape the travel landscape as 86% of travelers are prioritizing such offerings over traditional sightseeing. As a result, hotels that offer enriching, hands-on learning experiences are seeing a surge in popularity. These "skill-cations" are a combination of skill development and vacation or travel, where individuals learn new skills. It's a way to enrich both professional and personal growth by incorporating learning experiences into leisure activities. From learning to fly fish to getting PADI certified or identifying bird calls in the wild, this summer offers countless opportunities for travelers to pick up a new skill. With school wrapping up soon, it's a great time for families to plan educational getaways that keep everyone engaged and learning while away from the classroom. Vacations offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in new environments, explore diverse cultures and acquire practical skills through hands-on experience. From learning ukulele chords or identifying native bird calls, guests to the following properties can return home with unforgettable memories, but also with new skills. Explore Baja's underwater world with expert guides. The only 5-star PADI Resort in Los Cabos, Montage Los Cabos offers opportunities for scuba certification and exclusive night dives that reveal bioluminescent marine life, stingrays, octopuses and more under a moonlit sky. It's an unforgettable way to explore Baja's underwater world with expert guides, whether a novice or a pro. Scuba diving offers a wide array of benefits, impacting both your physical and mental well-being. Scuba diving engages many muscle groups, from your legs and core to your back and shoulders, offering a comprehensive workout. The resistance of the water makes even simple movements challenging, helping build strength and endurance. Once you dive, chances are you'll be hooked. Guests of the resorts can enjoy Ukulele And Hula lessons. Guests of Montage Kapalua Bay can take part in ukulele and hula lessons that explore Hawaiian heritage through music and movement. Learn to strum basic chords, then move through traditional hip and hand gestures tied to ancient storytelling. Hula dance lessons offer a range of physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Physically, hula improves coordination, balance, flexibility, and strength, while also providing a low-impact cardiovascular workout. Mentally, it can boost memory, enhance focus, and reduce stress. Spiritually, hula can connect individuals to their culture, traditions and a sense of community. Bird watching is a relaxing activity while on vacation. Set on 20,000 acres of Lowcountry wilderness, Montage Palmetto Bluff affords guests the chance to join a private nature walk led by a resident naturalist to learn about native birds, creeks and ecosystems. The immersive experience invites travelers to connect with the region's flora and fauna through sound and sight. Studies show that spending time in natural settings can lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and help to calm the mind. Bird watching offers numerous benefits for mental and physical well-being, fostering a connection with nature, promoting mindfulness and encouraging physical activity. It can reduce stress, improve mood and inspire a sense of awe and appreciation for the natural world. Guests gain a hands-on appreciation for sustainable gardening. Guests of Turtle Island, Fiji, can join the private island's gardeners to harvest tropical fruits, herbs and vegetables from the five-acre organic farm that supplies the resort's chefs. From hydroponic lettuces to papayas and lemongrass, guests gain a hands-on appreciation for sustainable island living. Sustainable gardening involves practices that include composting, using organic methods and prioritizing native plants. It also emphasizes reducing water waste through efficient irrigation and water harvesting, as well as minimizing energy consumption by using electric or push-reel mowers. Guests the chance to learn the fundamentals of fly fishing. The Hythe offers guests the chance to learn the fundamentals of fly fishing, from casting techniques to reading river conditions, with expert guides along Vail's scenic waterways. Whether on a Cast & Taste adventure or at a secluded private ranch, guests leave with practical angling skills and a deeper connection to Colorado's alpine environment. Fly fishing is a natural stress reliever. It allows anglers to disconnect from technology and the daily grind, immersing themselves in the present moment and the beauty of nature. Guests can take part in two tasting experiences. At Cellar & Barrel in the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Fiji's first speakeasy bar, guests can take part in two tasting experiences while learning about the nuances of winemaking. Cellar Elite, a guided wine tasting in the walk-in cellar, and Barrel Craft, a whiskey tasting session focused on flavor profiles and aging techniques. Led by the bar team and featuring ingredients like herbs and syrups sourced from the on-site farm, both experiences help guests better understand what they're tasting. The Land Rover Experience offers an unmatched adventure. The Quail, located in the rolling green hills of the majestic Carmel Valley,offers a number of on-property activities destined to create the perfect 'skillcation.' Only found at The Quail and in the entire state of California, the Land Rover Experience offers an unmatched adventure through off-road driving. Guided by a qualified instructor, drivers will make steep descents, climb piles of logs and navigate tight hairpin turns. Surfers are bound to catch some waves during this experience. Located on the nation's most celebrated beach, Regent Santa Monica Beach has recently unveiled its newest slate of programming for its first summer season since opening in October 2024. Guests of all ages are welcome to enjoy a coastal getaway with immersive and skill-building on-property experiences. A cornerstone of California's identity, guests can learn how to surf with the resort's dedicated surf lessons. Regardless of their skill level, participants are bound to catch some waves by the end of the session with expert instruction.
West Australian
6 days ago
- West Australian
Diving the Maldives for free
It's early morning and the tide is out. We have the beach to ourselves — it's straight into the warm turquoise water, masks and snorkels in place. In contrast to the sleepy shore, there's a party beneath the waves: a rainbow of spotted and striped fish dart back and forth in a carnival of colour. A canary-yellow boxfish cruises past, while a vivid red lionfish looks up from the ocean floor, fins fluttering; behind some coral, a rainbow-hued parrotfish the length of a ruler surveys his domain. There are easily more than 100 fish surrounding us, bodies glinting like jewels in the sunlight. It's just another day in the private island paradise that is Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. That evening, as my husband and I relax on the back deck of a chic overwater villa, we are excited to see two spotted eagle rays metres from our feet, their sleek black bodies performing a mesmerising aquatic ballet — a tantalising prelude to the next day's diving. A 45-minute speedboat ride from the Maldivian capital, Male, and its international airport, Kandooma Fushi in the South Male Atoll is hugely popular with Aussie surfers lured by the island's point break, one of the best and most consistent in the archipelago. However, the extraordinary biodiversity of the surrounding waters makes the island resort an ideal destination for scuba divers seeking close encounters with large marine life such as turtles, reef sharks, and manta rays. Some of the Maldives' top dive sites are minutes away. There's a well-equipped PADI dive centre staffed by an experienced team, offering training and excursions for all ages and skill levels. Kandooma was named best diving resort by Travel Trade Maldives in 2023, and has been nominated as the Maldives' leading dive resort and the Indian Ocean's leading family resort in the 2025 World Travel Awards, to be announced later this year. The biggest drawcard is that Kandooma is the only resort in the Maldives where diving is free. Certified divers get two free dives per day, providing you have paid for at least a three-night stay. The Dive Free offer is scheduled to run until December 2026 and includes equipment hire and a guide, saving divers about $600 for two days diving. As a certified diver, albeit one whose diving is limited to holidays, I've been fortunate to enjoy some amazing trips, including night-diving off Thailand's Similan Islands and exploring the beauty of WA's Ningaloo Reef. At Kandooma, we head off on a bright afternoon to the outer reef, where we are organised into groups of four to five, each headed by an instructor. Visibility is high, and the ocean deliciously warm — the water stays around 28C all year. We haven't been diving long before a group member spots a lemon shark; the ocean predator is about 1.5m long, and while this species is not aggressive, it's still a formidable sight. A few minutes later, we see a green turtle jetting away from us amid schools of fish flitting among orange and cream coral. Another dive proves even more eventful. With the reef to my left and a steep drop into the depths on the right, I see orange-striped triggerfish, gold-striped butterflyfish, and a tiny shoal shimmering like a string of pearls; there's an exhilarating abundance of life. Instructor Shahudh points out a moray eel leering like a demon from his coral lair, head bobbing in and out. But it's the green turtles who are the stars of the show. We see three, including a juvenile nestled into the side of the reef, one flipper poking out, giving a regal wave. The proximity makes it an unforgettable experience; the young turtle is less than a metre away. Back on land, I hear about groups of reef sharks and manta rays at the Kandooma Thila, a world-renowned underwater pinnacle where strong currents make it necessary for divers to use hooks to hold on. It's a magnet for advanced divers. It's not just the water that teems with life. On our first evening, as we walk to the poolside buffet restaurant, we notice the shells on the sand paths moving. Each contains a hermit crab, scuttling to get out of the way of our footfall. We see a staff member with a glorious red and green parrot on his arm. Above, fruit bats glide from coconut palm to coconut palm in the dusk. Kandooma really is a textbook tropical paradise. Other highlights include a sunset cruise and the weekly grilled seafood feast at the resort's signature restaurant, The Asian Kitchen. At the start of the cruise, we are told by the crew there is about a 50 per cent chance of seeing dolphins. Our fellow cruisers, two young Japanese couples, busy themselves taking pictures for social media, the women posing elegantly in matching cream sarongs on the back deck as their dutiful partners get their best angles. The posing comes to an abrupt end with a shout from the bow; there's something in the water! But it's not dolphins; to the excitement of everyone on board, we see a pod of at least four pilot whales leaping and playing around the boat, including a mother and her baby. The pod stays with us for a good 15 minutes. Pilot whales are sighted maybe once every three months, if that, so we are uncommonly lucky. That evening, we tuck into juicy lobster tails, tuna steaks and tiger prawns at The Asian Kitchen, which is so beachfront we risk getting our toes sandy. As we eat, we are watched intently by a large heron, who has perched herself strategically on a rocky outcropping directly in front of the tables. Satiated with seafood, we wander back to the overwater villa. The decor is minimalist meets designer beach shack, complete with outdoor bath and a ladder from the deck straight down to the Indian Ocean. Evenings are magical; a large mesh hammock built into the deck enables you to watch dozens of fish below in the flood-lit water while the Milky Way glitters brightly above. Our last morning comes too quickly. As I scoot about packing, I notice a figure watching us from the beach. It's the heron from the restaurant, and she is no longer alone – there is another adult heron and a juvenile with her. We bid farewell to the feathery trio as we reluctantly walk down the wooden pier towards check-out, unconsciously dragging our feet as we go. Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives features garden, beach and overwater villas. There's a kids' club, spa and water sports centre. . Dawn Gibson-Fawcett is a travel writer and former West Australian journalist who lives in Cairo.
Glasgow Times
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Glasgow couple to abseil 30m down Kelpies for SSAFA
Carol and Charles Diaper, from St George's Cross in Glasgow, will climb the inside of one of the Kelpies before abseiling down the 30-metre-high sculpture on June 27, as part of the SSAFA Kelpie Experience. The event raises funds for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. It offers participants a guided aerial climb up the world's largest equine sculptures, with the option to descend via a free-hanging abseil or "Quick Flight" rope drop. Carol and Charles will climb and abseil the Kelpies to raise money for charity (Image: Supplied) Read more: Glaswegians urged to 'light up the longest day' and help feed hungry children Carol, a professional trumpeter, said: "We both feel passionate about supporting the people who serve in the Armed Forces, both home and abroad. "SSAFA does such good work with serving personnel, veterans, and their families, so when we saw the Kelpie event, we thought this was the perfect way of challenging ourselves whilst also raising vital funds for the charity." This challenge marks yet another adventure for the brave couple who are both PADI Rescue Divers. Carol recently completed her 500th dive in Fiji last year and has raised more than £50,000 for charity through fire walks, freefall parachuting, Everest Base Camp treks, and a 500km cycle ride in China. The adventurous couple are both PADI rescue divers (Image: Supplied) The couple's choice to raise funds for the Armed Forces is tied to their personal links to the organisation. Charles's uncle served as a Group Captain in the RAF and was Commandant of the now-closed Headley Court rehabilitation hospital. The couple also have a close friend who is an engineer in the Royal Navy. To support Carol and Charles' fundraising, visit The Kelpies Experience takes participants into the horse's mouth via cables, ladders, and suspended platforms. Designed for families, schools, and children aged ten and above (with under 17s accompanied by an adult), the event places a strong emphasis on safety. All climbers will be securely attached to a safety cable throughout and supported by professional guides. The couple are keen to raise funds for SSAFA due to their personal links to the armed forces (Image: Supplied) Read more: 'We never knew when she'd have a seizure': Mum on raising child with rare condition Carol said: "To anyone thinking about doing the challenge, I would say, just be brave. "It's an amazing feeling to challenge yourself both physically and mentally. "I know we'll both be a bit nervous from the heights, but that's what all the safety systems and guides are for. "The best feeling is knowing that all the money raised will go towards people who serve our country." The Kelpie Experience will take place on June 21 and again during Armed Forces Week on June 27. Individual registration costs £50, while a family of four (two adults and two children) can take part for £70, with a fundraising target of £250.
Time of India
11-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
18-year-old from Uttarakhand earns dual PADI certifications, marks milestone birthday underwater
Areen Srivastav, a young and passionate adventurer from Uttarakhand, has achieved a remarkable feat by earning two prestigious scuba diving certifications from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), namely — Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver certified by Adhyatma Tiwari of Dive Andaman (India) Pvt. Ltd. What makes this accomplishment even more extraordinary is that Areen completed his PADI Open Water certification before turning 18. And he celebrated his 18th birthday by completing the Advanced Open Water course just two days later, thus showcasing his determination, discipline, and love for the ocean. The PADI Open Water Diver certification, awarded on June 3, 2025, marks Areen's initiation into the diving world. This equips him with essential skills such as buoyancy control, mask clearing, and underwater breathing. This globally recognized certification allows him to dive independently to depths of up to 18 meters (60 feet). On June 5, 2025, Areen further advanced his diving expertise by earning the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification. This enables him to dive deeper up to 30 meters (100 feet) and handle more complex underwater environments. The course included mandatory deep and navigation dives, as well as three adventure dives of his choice, selected to broaden his experience and confidence underwater. 'This achievement is not just about diving; it's about stepping outside your comfort zone, learning to trust your instincts, and connecting deeply with the natural world,' Areen said after receiving his certificates. Areen's journey into the depths of the Andaman Sea reflects the aspirations of many young Indians eager to explore beyond both geographical and personal boundaries. His certifications, earned under the guidance of seasoned instructor Adhyatma Tiwari and Dive Andaman, add a professional edge to his profile as a young diver. This makes Areen Srivastav not just one of the youngest PADI-certified advanced divers in his region but also sets an inspiring example for youth, aiming to combine adventure with discipline and lifelong learning. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hypebeast
07-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Hypebeast
How Costa and PADI Are Redefining Ocean Culture — And How You Can Join In
Costa is the coolest IYKYK eyewear brand on the water. The brand has built a dedicated following for its performance eyewear innovations, including its patented 580 polarization technology, as well as its organic connection the best athletes and conservationists in the outdoor industry, including names such asRachel Moore,Gádor MuntanerandKimi Werner. After years of overlapping friendship and collaboration, Costa and PADI have officially joined forces to share knowledge and create impactful solutions, starting with thePADI Aware Foundationand other initiatives such as Costa'sKick Plasticprogram. What'sPADI? In a literal sense, PADI is an acronym for Professional Association of Diving Instructors, with 6,600 dive centers and more than 137,000 active members across the world, who work tirelessly towards ocean research and conservation. In a metaphorical sense, they're the ocean's spiritual guardians. The fashion community has long taken influence from all things aquatic, from the classic submariner silhouette to vintage clothing that rocks the red and white dive flag. Ocean iconography continues to reign supreme. With so many people who find inspiration and a connection to marine culture, there are endless opportunities to introduce new communities to the ocean in fun and thoughtful ways. To celebrate the partnership, we've put together a list of sustainable practices that help you, and your super sick fishing fits, get a little closer to the water while making it a better place. Get Scuba Certified, It's Fun and EasyGetting scuba certified is easy with PADI. Start by visiting the PADI website, where you can find a local dive shop that will help you take on the PADI Open Water Diver course. Once you're certified, one of our favorite next steps is theDive Against Debriscourse. This is a great way to explore the ocean while contributing to research and conservation efforts that go into protecting the reef. Buy Stuff That Lasts, Know How It's MadeBuying the great stuff that lasts a lifetime is the name of the game. Costa puts a specific focus on making high-quality and reliable equipment built to last and survive the elements. One of our favorites is Costa'sUntangled Collection, where the brand and friends atBureoincentivize commercial anglers across eight countries to donate their used fishing nets to be repurposed into Costa frames. Since 2018, more than 3.6 metric tons of discarded fishing nets have been repurposed for Costa's Untangled Collection of eyewear. Say Hey To Your Local Dive Or Fishing ShopLocal fishing, diving and general outdoor spaces are often led by passionate adventurers who share a similar interest in conservation and community. It can be intimidating jumping into these sports head first, but these people are happy to help no matter how new you are in your journey. Not to mention, this is where you'll find your most coveted merch. Here are some of our favorites —Pan Aqua Diving,Brooklyn Fishing ClubandThe Almeda Club. Bring An Extra Bag, Pick One Or Two Things UpYou know the rules, leave it better than you found. When visiting the beach this summer, bring a reusable bag to take on your own mini beach cleanup, just in case you come across a few pieces of trash on your way out. Don't be scared to encourage your friends to do the same.
