I'm not complaining about the pay - in this area it's pretty much the going rate. All I'm saying is that it isn't really fair to say that instructors are being paid for the job and that's all they need. The pay is what it is and I wouldnt teach if I didnt enjoy it. My full-time job supports the dive habit. I do have a lot of respect for folks who teach for a living. I can't imagine that being enough to pay the mortgage, especially without tips.
I chatted with a DM/instructor on Maui last year. He barely made enough to pay his rent and food. I asked what kept him there and he said "look around, it's paradise". We all have our reasons.. (I tipped him, not based on perceived need, but on his great job and attitude).
I chatted with a DM/instructor on Maui last year. He barely made enough to pay his rent and food. I asked what kept him there and he said "look around, it's paradise". We all have our reasons.. (I tipped him, not based on perceived need, but on his great job and attitude).