My last week and a half (yes, I extended my stay by six days because I couldn’t bear to leave) in Lembeh has been absolutely fantastic. I got the rest of my course requirements completed – guiding certified divers, scuba review, assisting on continued education and my skills and rescue assessment.

Once that was done, it was time for the real fun to begin. Yes, I had to do my Snorkel Test before Matt and Dani could officially proclaim me a Divemaster. I nearly drowned twice and gave the boys a good laugh with the fact that I cannot do press ups to save my life but it was good fun all the same. The night continued with music from the guys and Doan taking 240 photos on my camera – we all had a brilliant time.

These extra few days I’ve had here were really needed. I have no idea how I would have been able to go home when I planned and, although I had Dani in a panic finding me somewhere to sleep and had to share with Caroline for two nights, it was definitely a good idea to stay. I got to make a structure for the artificial house reef – guess what it is correctly and I will love you forever – as well as arranging a ‘Dive for Debris’ for Project AWARE.

I would like to take this moment to thank everyone from both Bunaken and Lembeh for everything they have done for me in my month here in Indonesia. Special thanks go to Tina, Nigel, Matt and Dani for instructing and arranging everything – to Dion also for being my instructor in Bunaken.

Thank you to all of the dive guides, boatmen and staff in both locations – you are wonderful people, always smiling and happy and my stay would most certainly have not been the same without you. Finally, thank you to the wonderful friends I have made – to Joep, Sylvie, Karoline, Theresia, Caroline and every one of the guests who has made my trip a great one, even if you only passed through for a day.

I don’t think I can say it enough, THANK YOU.