hi divers--
i am planning a 2-wk trip for 3 of us in sept. '04 and would like some input on the destination. we are newly certified divers and have been hoping to explore a variety of diving sites, which is why both indonesia and malaysia sound great. (plus we are interested in exploring the cultures, wildlife, beaches, food, etc). i have gotten mixed info about safety in both of these places, and would appreciate input from anyone with knowledge of the areas, especially if you have been there recently. while we are adventurous new yorkers who are accustomed to living on the edge, we'd like to avoid terrorists, kidnappings and bombings, if possible! i know there is no guarantee on this, i just want to make an educated decision.
aside from the safety issue, i would also love input on the dive sites, operators, and accomodations (if that's not asking too much!) it is very hard to make a decision, since it all looks fantastic. we hope to spend 1/2 the trip diving, 1/2 exploring by land (especially interesting animals!). i've heard pro-sipadan, anti-sipadan, pro-lankayan, etc, etc.
i appreciate any input! thanks for your help.
i am planning a 2-wk trip for 3 of us in sept. '04 and would like some input on the destination. we are newly certified divers and have been hoping to explore a variety of diving sites, which is why both indonesia and malaysia sound great. (plus we are interested in exploring the cultures, wildlife, beaches, food, etc). i have gotten mixed info about safety in both of these places, and would appreciate input from anyone with knowledge of the areas, especially if you have been there recently. while we are adventurous new yorkers who are accustomed to living on the edge, we'd like to avoid terrorists, kidnappings and bombings, if possible! i know there is no guarantee on this, i just want to make an educated decision.
aside from the safety issue, i would also love input on the dive sites, operators, and accomodations (if that's not asking too much!) it is very hard to make a decision, since it all looks fantastic. we hope to spend 1/2 the trip diving, 1/2 exploring by land (especially interesting animals!). i've heard pro-sipadan, anti-sipadan, pro-lankayan, etc, etc.
i appreciate any input! thanks for your help.