Hey!
I just found this web forum and am also looking for DM training in Thailand. I'm semi-retired, living in Thailand for the past few years and think of diving as "fun" so that is why I selected the username
funrecdiver.
Frankly speaking, I really appreciated this thread. I read all the posts, including the bickering and strong opinions, and found them all useful and think the strong opinions about location, visibility, refunds, skills, customer service and more reflect the passion people have for such a great sport. I thought all the posts were very good.
OBTW, I've just completed my AOW in Pattaya and agree the visibility is terrible this time of year; but that simply peaked my interest in learning about tides, currents and visibility factors. I spent hours researching this topic, something I might not have done in great visibility. This underscores what many have said here, that all diving experiences are important and great lessons can be learned even from the worst conditions and experiences.
Also, I found doing the navigation and search/rescue courses really great in low visibility. These courses are really fun and I don't think I would enjoy them as much in great diving conditions. I plan to do more of the same in low viz conditions.
Regarding one of the subtopics of this thread, I have found the DC I have been dealing with in Pattaya to be very honest with high quality instructors. I cannot imagine they would try to cheat me if we had planned a trip to one place and had to change at the last minute. We would reschedule for another day, which is fine with me. If I was really worried about getting a refund, I would only agree to pay on the morning of the dive when the boat is confirmed to be going to where it was supposed to go.
On training: One of my observations is that it is not possible to name the "best divemaster training" in Thailand (or anywhere) because each one of us has different lifestyles, needs, requirements and concerns. So far, I have enjoyed my training and diving in Pattaya, but I am also looking forward to other sites and centers in Thailand as well. After all, different locations have different conditions, centers, and people, and all of these help create knowledge, confidence and friendships.
In closing, I'm looking to buy some good second hand gear, so please PM if you have any of these items for sale (great shape and great price of course!): (1) Suunato Gekko or Vyper or D4, (2) a good quality BCD with integrated weight system (like the Mares Vector1000), size medium and (3) perhaps some great smooth regs with Suunato guages.
Thanks again for a very informative thread.