Best Dives of Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao

Based on Best Dives of the Caribbean, this book focuses on the ABC islands exclusively. Includes the latest and best dive and snorkel sites, each rated for visual excellence and marine life. The author's knowledge of the Caribbean sites is unparalleled. From sunken planes and snorkel trails to blue holes, the best destinations beneath the waves are covered. "I have bought both editions of this book, mostly because the first edition got so dog-eared that I wanted a clean one for vacation last year. The book is a marvelous source of information for both the snorkeler and the diver. The authors divide the book into chapters on individual islands, starting out with a brief but interesting history of the island, a topographical description, relative location map, best time to go, weather, and proximity to other islands. They then rate the island's diving locations, awarding from 1 to 5 stars, and provide another larger map visually locating the sites. Each site is described in detail, with info on depth, sea life, currents, visibility, photo ops and difficulty level. As if that weren't enough, they include some (but not enough!) beautiful photos, and end each chapter with yet more info on dive operators (detailed), beaches, other activities, dining, accommodations (with rates, addresses and phone numbers), medical facilities, documentation requirements, currency, driving, local customs, departure taxes, etc. I've been exploring the Caribbean for almost a decade now; I take this compact book with me everywhere. My only complaint: I wish they covered more islands!" -- (Suziekew)"The new, 2006, third edition of Best Dives of the Caribbean is packed full of dive-vacation planning information. It tells what time of year to go, the most popular dive sites with details on what to expect, depths, average sea conditions-- I get seasick if it's rough and prefer diving where the sites are ten minutes or less by boat, or better yet accessible from the beach. Indeed, some of the other one-desination guides are more suitable for the coffee table, but they don't tell me anything about the dive resorts, the $$ cost. I would not consider planning a dive-vacation to the Caribbean without consulting this gem of a travel guide. The dive resort write ups are detailed and give rates and package deals. Any, the author gives an email for additional questions." -- Janice Brink Diver-friendly resorts and hotels are featured, along with many recommended outfitters for learning, improving and mastering your diving skills. A list of decompression chambers is given. Landlubbers will appreciate the sightseeing sections. Color photos enhance the text. Maps show dive site locations. A must-have for divers, snorkelers, or those who just love to float in liquid turquoise. -- Brenda Fine, Travel Editor, NY Law Journal Don't plan a dive without it! Concise and informative... one of the few bargains of the decade. -- Wendy Canning Church, Divers Exchange International It's super! A great reference and we love it. -- Dive Travel Magazine The bible of Caribbean dive-travel. I highly recommend it. -- Chris Lofting, The Travel Show, WOR Network Radio When I'm thinking about where to go diving next, I always thumb through this gem... It's a trustworthy publication. -- In Depth/Undercurrent Magazine "I thought this was one of the best books for the travelling diver that I have ever read. A recent trip to Aruba proved it. Recommendations are still right on the mark." -- C. Harmon