It’s been one week now since I finished my Rescue Diver course here in Bunaken, and although that was tons of fun, saving lives and wrestling divers in panic, I was really eager to jump into my PADI Divemaster course In Bunaken

Now, seven days later, I’ve been out diving only ONE day! What happened? Why so little diving? Well, I developed quite an ear infection which has kept me out of the water for a while. Lesson learned: if you’re planning an extended dive trip, for days or weeks on end, take extra good care of your ears! After each dive, rinse out your ears with freshwater, and maybe even with rubbing alcohol or vinegar to keep them extra clean. After a few painful days, with no signs of improvement I made a little trip to the most beautiful city in the world, Manado. There I sought treatment from an excellent ear, nose, and throat specialist who finally helped me get some good antibiotics. Fortunately, I’ve only had an infection of the external ear, which with proper treatment (that includes keeping the ear completely dry!) can potentially clear up in a few days. So with the doctor’s assistance, I’ve finally gotten back on the healthy track and a couple more days later, I’m finally ready to continue my Divemaster course!

Of course, just because I haven’t been diving doesn’t mean I haven’t been keeping busy. This has been a great opportunity to hit the books and get ahead on studying all the theory that a Divemaster needs to know. I’ve been able to power through the entire manual by now, and finished my exams already! That should hopefully put me a step ahead later when I’m back out on the reef. A strong knowledge background in dive theory always improves your skills underwater… am I right?

I’ve also been lucky enough to get involved with work back in the compressor room, plus I’ve been pushing ahead with my Nitrox specialty as well. So actually, the ear infection hasn’t really held me back all that much! Still plenty to do around here, and plenty of fun to be had with all the amazing people working or staying in Two Fish…