The Observer Effect?

[Birddog1911]

I think you're right about the development being of huge negative impact & it's interesting to note. I generally don't like staying at sprawling resorts, all inclusives, etc., but even staying in a town with too much development means I'm supporting the strain on the natural resources so I will add this to my list as well when considering where to dive. However, avoiding the development doesn't mean I shouldn't also be extremely careful underwater. I don't have to choose between these two, but in trying to minimize my impact, I can be careful with both.

I'm still working my way through the thread, but just thought I'd point something out. My wife and I do enjoy all inclusive resorts. It's part of making our precious vacations that much more enjoyable. But, we are selective with who we stay with. For the Cancun/Cozumel area, it is Palace Resorts. They recognize their impacts, and are very conscious in their efforts to protect the environment. They are heavily involved in the sea turtle egg collection, and baby release. We're actually going next year, so that we can see it take place.

 

[TMHeimer]

I'm still working my way through the thread, but just thought I'd point something out. My wife and I do enjoy all inclusive resorts. It's part of making our precious vacations that much more enjoyable. But, we are selective with who we stay with. For the Cancun/Cozumel area, it is Palace Resorts. They recognize their impacts, and are very conscious in their efforts to protect the environment. They are heavily involved in the sea turtle egg collection, and baby release. We're actually going next year, so that we can see it take place.

At least they're doing what they can. Of course the coastal area destroyed when the resort was built is probably problem number one. But, I've enjoyed resorts at times too--that's just what we do.

 

[drrich2]

But, I've enjoyed resorts at times too--that's just what we do.

Which may be a good thing. I suspect these resorts are going to be built either way; if a substantial portion of their customer base is 'green,' the resort has reason to support 'greener' practices. If environmentally concerned people boycotted them, who'd stay at the resorts and influence their priorities?

Richard.

 

[tilikum]

We can rationalize environmental destruction in myriad ways.

 

[Kharon]

I've always felt that every fish that sees me says to themselves - "big, slow, clumsy, no threat". As long as I keep my distance, do not chase, and do not interfere I doulbt I'm doing real harm.

 

[ronscuba]

I've always felt that every fish that sees me says to themselves - "big, slow, clumsy, no threat". As long as I keep my distance, do not chase, and do not interfere I doulbt I'm doing real harm.

Yes, but if you want to get close, swim out 10 to 15 ft in front of them and let them swim to you.

 

[TMHeimer]

I've always felt that every fish that sees me says to themselves - "big, slow, clumsy, no threat". As long as I keep my distance, do not chase, and do not interfere I doulbt I'm doing real harm.

Yes, I've had that feeling. A few years ago out of the blue, a lobster flew up and hit me from behind. Don't know where he fits on the scale of threat/no thread--him or me. Not one of those tiny clawed Florida ones.....

 

[Kharon]

Yes, but if you want to get close, swim out 10 to 15 ft in front of them and let them swim to you.

You know, maybe I'm lazy or maybe it's because I don't want to appear the least bit threatening, but, at least on Bonaire, I find that if I just putt along, over the course of all my dives, I'll be in proximity of virtually every type & species of fish there. No need to chase ahead. Just relax, keep diving, and let it happen. The other thing is that, if I see an eagle ray not heading toward me, I'm too slow to get out ahead of it. My best trick is to just hover as motionless as possible and keep watching.

 

[ronscuba]

You know, maybe I'm lazy or maybe it's because I don't want to appear the least bit threatening, but, at least on Bonaire, I find that if I just putt along, over the course of all my dives, I'll be in proximity of virtually every type & species of fish there. No need to chase ahead. Just relax, keep diving, and let it happen. The other thing is that, if I see an eagle ray not heading toward me, I'm too slow to get out ahead of it. My best trick is to just hover as motionless as possible and keep watching.

Because I do video and photo, I like to get the head on facing shot. This takes more effort and kicking. For me, getting 10-15 ft. out in front of the creature has worked well.

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

I've always felt that every fish that sees me says to themselves - "big, slow, clumsy, no threat". As long as I keep my distance, do not chase, and do not interfere I doulbt I'm doing real harm.

I tend toward the Dave Barry school on fish vocabulary ...

But so far, all the marine life has appeared to be harmless. Mostly it has consisted of what I would describe, using precise ichthyological terminology, as "medium fish, " many of which are swimming right up and giving me dopey fish looks, which basically translate to the following statement: "Food?" That's what fish do all the time -- they swim around going: "Food?" You can almost see the little question marks over their heads. The only other thought they seem capable of is: "Yikes!" Fish are not known for their SAT scores.

Read more here: Blub story a very deep experience

... Bob (Grateful Diver)