Thanks for all the great advice. In comparing the areas I was really just wondering basic dive related stuff like vis and sea life. My goal in getting my DM is simple and twofold. 1. In a month and 1/2 give or take, I want to have a firm foundation on being a safe, responsible and fun DM. 2. While I'm interning as a DMT I want to make some wonderful dives. I'm fine with scant lodgings and will be on a budget ( to be determined ) anyway. After staying in barebones places like Utila, I am fine with a bed and a shower. For me it's dive, dive, dive... Couple beers... Sleep...dive, dive, dive. The party atmosphere neither entices or would dissuade me from staying in an area if the diving is great. The only parties I don't wanna miss happen somewhere between 20-30m LOL.
Is it reasonable cheap to live in Mabul a month ( say 2500 usd ) I'm trying to get out of country for an extended time every year. I live in a landlocked state ( WV ) and though we have a small lake scuba community there is simply no way to get suitable experience as a DM. I would guide more divers in a week abroad then in a year at home. I had heard a couple people mention Koh Tao but I seriously just want cheap lodgings, beautiful, memorable dives and good instruction. I'm not picky about parties or timid about areas though I do love a scuba oriented, barefoot,"take it easy" community.