Learn In Asia Scuba Internships Co., Ltd.

After looking at several other CDC centres around the world and corresponding with representation from each, I found that mermaids was by far the cheapest and most effective program for me. Booking was fast and easy, before I knew it I was in Thailand and nervous as hell. As soon as I arrived at the dive centre my nervousness diminished and was instantly made part of the team. As I write this I have currently been here almost 5 months and it has been the best decision of my life to further my career as a dive instructor and marine archaeologist . To all those enquiring about an internship at Mermaids it is the best in the world. So Go for it and get wet.

PJ's website summed it all up for me, I'd gone from working on a bungee tower in the US to five years working in an uneventful office in the UK and felt that living for the weekends was losing its appeal. I'd always wanted to try scuba diving and so gave PJ a call, two weeks later I was in Pattaya. The Mermaids Internship program grew exponentially during my 8 months from 'zero to hero' and provided me not only with a level of training and instruction second to none in S.E Asia but many good friends to boot. The community feel encompassing Mermaids is probably the reason all my good buddies keep going back to Pattaya, either that or the gogo bars! During the four or so months of teaching at Mermaids after my IDC I knew I had found my calling. Now I have a passport to the world, job satisfaction and all for less than GBP 4000 inc. Life's too short and fortune favours the brave etc etc....... Cheers to all the staff at Mermaids, I'll see you again in April 2006. The drinks are on PJ! Steve

Well they say that your school days are the best days of your life......true but I think that was the diving school days in my life. Throughout my 8 months in Thailand with Mermaids I have met so many new and great people and I will always remember my days there. All the instructors who brought me up from Open water to Instructor have been excellent and I owe it all to them (and PJ of course) :) Special thanks to Claus, Manx, Tom, HMS, SB1 for the help and training during the IDC, also to Lance who guided me through my Divemaster Training and to Russell who made me and Open Water diver even after calling him an Aussie. Special thanks to Pj for for a great time on the Similans trip - memories that will never fade. Never forgetting of course the longstay crew, Alex, Jason, Stuart (the savoy bar & Grill), Aine, Lucy, Jeff, Linda, Sue, Rosie, Russ, Alexia, Cliff, Will, Slinky, Lee, Beou, Martin, You have all been a great laugh. Keep in touch...

I really liked the way that 'ALL' you IDC Staff kept this course so very much fun, fun and learning together. I thought that one more day on the boat might have been a good idea but ths is only a small whining as you have all made the rest of the course so enjoyable. I am not sure which of the courses that I enjoyed most but it would have to be either the Rescue or the IDC, I loved them both on different levels. I am now breathing easier thanks to Russell, Desi and Iain - Totally dedicated people do exist at Mermaids.

A big thank you to Mermaids and all the staff which have made my dream possible. Another 100% rult for the IE which I was so happy to be included in. Many great memories and friends have been made at Mermaids and that's what makes it all worthwhile.

I am now working in the Dominican Republic for Dressel Divers and having a good time. My first certifications have gone through, I'm learning a lot but am at a good level for a newbie instructor. Thanks to you, Klaus, Tom and Russel. I'm a happy man.

I am currently finishing up my dive master course at Mermaids Dive School and I plan to continue on to the Instructor level. So far I have found the instruction to be extremely professional and intimate. There are many other students at the school; however, every class I have taken has been either just I or one other student. The instructors are there everyday for you to ask questions and get instant feedback on your performance. The atmosphere is very laid back and they are willing to work around your schedule to suit your needs. Once you finish your rescue course you begin as a dive master trainee and this is where you learn the most and have the most fun. You get to see what it is like to work in the field as you are on the boat diving everyday with customers. You are responsible for leading dive teams, assisting instructors by demonstrating skills to other students and conducting dive briefings based on your personal knowledge of the dive sites. No two days are the same and there is something new to learn everyday. I have been here for about two months and I have found that out of everything I have done the one thing I enjoy the most is hanging out with the friends that I have made from all over the world. After we finish up a 'tough day at the office' we all gather at the local pub next door to have a few beers and tell stories about diving or about our past lives in the 'real world'. This has truly been a unique experience in my life and I can honestly say that I made the right decision for myself. I don't know what the future has in store for me, but I can say that it won't be in an office or cubicle sitting behind a computer for eight hours a day. I hope that this has helped provide some insight and given you something to think about for your future.

The Three Wise Men! (Crowley, the time before) taught me everything I know! My time on the IDC program has been interesting. Can't thin of anything I'd change. Without 'Mr Burns' I wouldn't be half as paranoid about my students safety as I am but this is only a good thing. Big Gansta Love to the men that made me a dive instructor!

Arriving in a new place, trying to advance a new career is always going to be scary, but the welcome I received from everyone at Mermaids instantly put me at ease. Having been here for over three months now, I can say that this is by far the most professional outfit in this area, with fantastic instruction and instructors who are always willing to help no matter how busy they are. The diving here may not be the best in the world, but there are some superb wrecks, and ripping currents which provide valuable experience. Unlike sites in the Andaman Sea, diving here is all year round, so you can take your time. When you do finish, most people leave with jobs to go to. The nightlife here is like nowhere I have ever been, and is really something you have to experience first hand to understand. I have made many good friends here, some of who have already left and are dotted around the globe, but we all stay in touch via email. With all these outstanding invitations to visit, I'm not sure where to go first, Dominican Rep., Egypt, Spain.... Happy Days!!

They say life say life is what you make it ! In that case for the last 8 months I've been making a great fool out of what the accepted definition of work is !!!! Diving out here is only a very small part of the experience .. The people you'll meet are friends for life and the experiences are something you will talk about forever.. A Small incident on my first night in Bangkok and it's become legend.. No doubt you'll all hear about it on your arrival.. That said, enjoy the diving, and you'll see something new every day... Enjoy every day and you'll fall in love with Thailand... After 8 months here ( my IDC is less than 3 weeks away ) I am still finding things on my doorstep I have missed for the last 7 months... I mean thing like the best kebab van in south east Asia and a Mexican restaurant to shame all other.. Oh and yesterday I saw my first shark in Pattaya ( no monster but it had a mean look in his eye - honest ) .. Come out here and enjoy it, live it but most of all take a bunch of photo's as when your memory is old and fuzzy (beer more than age ) they'll always provide irrefutable proof of the fish you saw, the elephants in the street and of course the guy that drank to much and danced on stage ...... I May well see some of you out here , if not all I ask is :- 1) Take care of Peter ( he's fragile ) 2) Savor every day out here ... The smells are fantastic ( mostly ) and the roadside food is safe ( mostly ) 3) Remember to bubble !!! ( that will make more sense when your out here ).

Hi Peter, Steve, Carl and the whole gang!!!!! Finally, I'll be returning to Mermaids to continue my training!! I have now dived in Fujairah, UAE and Ocho Rios, Jamaica and I can say without hesitation, that the training I received and the dive professionalism demonstrated by all at Mermaids has yet to be surpassed! I truly want to thank you for setting and maintaining such a high standard. My dive 'habits' were complimented on by staff at both locations and I was proud to tell them where I received my training.

When we decided to travel to Thailand to do an Internship, everyone said to us you must be crazy!!! Sure with an 8 month old baby, we almost thought the same thing. Choosing the right Dive School was crucial for us to make our new life work and after many ups and downs searching for the right place and at the point of almost giving up our dream we contacted PJ and within hours joined up with Mermaids. Wow, they helped us with everything including finding us a fabulous nanny and a great apartment (all this before we even arrived) We have been here 7 months and are working on our MSDT and IDC Staff. During this time, we've had great advice and instruction on all of our courses and if we came across any problems they were quickly solved and improved upon for the next divers coming through. We've always found you are never alone, if you have a problem or need anything, just ask, there are a lot of good Instructors here willing to help and of course PJ who is a great listener. Our training has taken us to levels over and beyond what we thought we would get from the Internship and have found out that no matter what age you are it is never to late to change your life and still be able to say, I learn something new every day. As we are having such a great time, we have just extended our stay for another couple of months and are really thinking of burning that return ticket back to London! The best thing we ever did, comes to mind.....

My time at Mermaids has been educational but most of all extreme fun. What makes Mermaids Dive School? The people do; the interns, the customers, and the instructors. Mermaids is regarded highly in Thailand and believe me you're going to enjoy your time here!

I have spent 3 months at Mermaids going through to Instructor level. The first couple of weeks were daunting as I did not know any one and I was in a different country. After the initial getting to know period it has been an experience that I shall never forget - a very enjoyable one! I think that if you are an outgoing person you could not go to a better place, Pattaya is great! Mermaids is run to give you the experience of a busy dive shop - the ups and the downs and it does this very well.

Hey Steve, So I'm getting ready to leave tomorrow. I just want to say thank you so much for everything. This has been a truly wonderful experience that has opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities. I have gained an entirely new confidence from my time here. For the most part the instructors have been amazing, providing me with great feedback and encouragement. I could not have asked for more from the training I have received. In case I don't get to see them before I go, would you please send my warmest thanks to Sue, Russell, Desi and Claus. There is so much more I would love to have done here. Perhaps I'll be back to do my MSDT or possibly pursue some technical diving. So many possibilities :-). Thank you for your offer for a recommendation, that would be wonderful. You have a great thing going here and I am hope your success with the program will continue to flourish Thanks again Steve

I was only at Mermaids for two months, but the operation made a lasting impression on me. It is well organized and the staff is incredibly helpful and friendly. Pattaya and Samae San's dive sites offered a fantastic learning environment. My time there saw me complete 5 specialties, ERD/PERT 1 and my Divemaster certification. I learned a lot through these courses and vastly improved my diving skills. Interns and staff alike made the experience a lot of fun, and I came out with quite a few great friends that I plan on keeping in touch with. I found the community at Mermaids welcoming and friendly, and had no trouble fitting into the place while I recovered from my jet lag and settled in to life in Pattaya. I plan on getting my Instructor certification in about a years time, and Mermaids is at the top of my list of places to do it. I would strongly recommend it to anyone looking to advance their diving skills and qualifications.

I have only great things to say about Mermaids CDC. Right from the first day I arrived to the day I left I was looked after and helped through my stay no end. Any problems I had (which were next to none) were looked into and sorted asap. My parents were obviously worried about me being so far away from home, but when they came to visit me at the end of my stay their worries evaporated when they saw how friendly and also professional everyone one is and how good the general atmosphere at Mermaids is. All the dive instructors/divemasters were fantastic during all the courses and diving I did. I made some of the best friends while I was there, both with people doing similar things to myself and the more qualified divers too, even with the people working in Toto's bar next door! Had I not had to return to England to start university I would definitely have stayed longer and most likely would still be there now. I found it really inspiring how much fun you can have and how much you can learn at the same time!

Whether it's a life experience, fun, adventure, making seriously good friends or a career in diving you're after...we have both found that the Mermaids internship offers all of this and much more! Together we have had so many new experiences, seen things we never thought we would, and most importantly had a good laugh. Seriously, we have had the time of our lives here and look forward to diving with you soon.

Hi PJ/ Steve I just wanted to say thanks again for the most amazing four months I've ever had. Having made it to DM I will be back in August (or thereabouts) to finish off the IDC/IE. You guy's run an awesome operation over there and the training and support I received were unparalleled. The instructors that took me under their wing/s have given me the best start I could ask for in getting into the dive industry. So thanks again and see you soon. Cheers

My first trip to Mermaids was on Holiday. My first impression was 'look at all of those people; this must be a good dive school'. I carried out my first day's diving with Lance and Russell, as part of my Advanced course, I had a great time. The staff made sure that I was happy and I knew exactly what was going on. At the end of the day we sat and had a beer and chatted about the day and what would happen the following day. That experience made me know that I had made the right choice in school. It also changed my life! I wanted to be an instructor and I knew where I wanted to carry out my training. The actual experience, when I sit back, exceeded my expectations.

Alright Well, I'd like to take my hat off to all of the instructors i.e. Desi, Iain, and Russell. I actually enjoyed the IDC very much and appreciate everything that you all have taught me. However, I would have liked one more day in the ocean for practice. You are all sound guys and great instructors so many thanks for everything.

My eight months at mermaid just flew by. It was a great experience and really opened my passion for diving. This was the third time I returned to Mermaid to dive. I was so pleased with my last two visits that I did not even consider to enroll in any other intern program. There are so many things that brings back memories when I look back, but the large amount of SangSom at Roskilde bar has wiped out most of it :-) Stephen Blumenthal. If I had any problems or questions he was there to help. I would like to quote him: 'I just want everybody to be happy'. I became an Instructor after a hard but good IDC and I would like to say hello to everyone who participated in July IDC 2006. 'That's a Lars' Instructor 'God damm it'

My name is ONE - a Japanese diver. I came to Mermaid 3 year ago. I had my open water and then trained from Advanced through to Open Water Scuba Instructor. Now I am taking the PADI/DSAT Tec Deep Diver Instructor training. I am very interested in technical diving and wish to work for Mermaids full time in the future. It is great here.

After 7 months with Mermaids I can truly say that I have had an amazing experience. I came out to Thailand to take the 'zero-hero' course - open water diver through PADI open water scuba instructor and I've done it!!!!! Not only that but I have taken so many other dive courses and had lots of fun doing them - Mermaids everything to offer. On the social side you could not ask for anything more - amazing people, endless parties, and lots of laughs!! I've made friends for life, we've all got a common interest and love diving together! There's a really happy, relaxed atmosphere at the shop and on the boats and in the bars:-) I have had the time of my life and would recommend this to anyone. You will NOT regret it!

Although the diving is not the best in the world and conditions can vary it allows for excellent training. There is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable and essential experience in all areas of diving. You'll get to log many hours underwater and dives in total. Overall - an excellent experience. I have had better pleasure diving but the training ground is unsurpassable.

I highly recommend the Mermaids diving life internship. During my 6 months here I have gone from never having dived to Open Water instructor. The learning environment is very flexible, it is entirely up to you how much or little you wish to learn. Any time you are looking for a little extra tuition or even have a small problem the staff are always there to help. Everyone is made to feel very welcome. The staff are very friendly and helpful. There is a very good social life here and all congregate after the diving in the local hangouts. I definately recommend coming to Mermaids.

Steve, Thanks for helping me out on the specialties. Diving here in San Diego has been amazing. I am working for Dive Connections on the weekends as there head divemaster on the boats. during the week I teach Independently, and give guided tours of San Diego's underwater world, Kayak Diving is becoming popular here as well and I am making good money with those tours. I am starting to get used to my wetsuit and the cold water diving it has been about 9-11 C here lately, BURR. Sure miss that Thailand diving. anyhow, 2 things, First, I got an IDC course evaluation questionnaire. as you know, I was extremely impressed with everyone who helped on that course and it is because of there excellent teaching and willingness to help, that I was able to learn so much while going through the IDC. I want to give credit where credit is due, but i do not know all the names of everyone who helped out. so i am asking you to help me with the last names. Second, I wanted you and Peter to know. When I came to your Dive school I was only open water with 18 dives. and your school was the only one I had been exposed to really. now I am home and I have been to every Dive shop in San Diego. They send me there overflow. and I sometimes work with there teachers on the boats I run on the weekends. what I am eluding to, is now that I have seen how well at least the dive shops here are run. let me tell you. MERMAIDS is a TOP dive school. I am constantly getting complements on my dive knowledge and diving skills. I attribute 99% othat to the intern program as well as the instructors who taught me. I had to save at least 1% f me I am not a total dummy. I have already recommended to several people here to look into the intern program and will continue to do so. I miss the program already, or is it the warm water? LOL!

6 months at Mermaids and I completed Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue, EFR, Enriched Air, Deep, Wreck, Search & Recovery, Night, Divemaster, EFRI, Open Water Scuba Instructor, 7 Instructor Specialties, DSAT: Tec Gas Blender and Tec Deep Diver, over 200 dives in the end. There are some great instructors at Mermaids and lots of opportunity to gain work experience at a busy dive centre. After the training received at Mermaids I feel confident about going out and pursuing work in the dive industry. I am glad I stumbled across the Learn-in-Asia Web site. It was time well spent.

I feel that I have gotten an experience as close to a real divemaster as possible in an educational environment. My time has been both enjoyable and productive.

Training is top notch, diving can be a bit dodgy in places. Listen to the dive instructors like Russ, Desi, Iain and Crowley and enjoy the nightlife.

I arrived at Mermaids on January 4th 2007 for 6 months and although i had a head start on info (due to a friend studying there 6 months prior), i was still anxious when i arrived. Within a week i was settled and already felt like i was at home - the place is so adjustable! I stepped through the ranks and finally made it to OWSI. I looked back at the end of June and it was the only time i ever thought to myself that i wish i could rewind and do it all again. I don't think i appreciated it as much as i thought i did and in retrospect, i would have done double the amount if i only knew what i know now! In particular, PJ, Russell, Desi, Ian Barr, Derek, and not forgetting the insatiable Mr Crowley - these guys are the life and soul of Mermaids. I hated nearly all of them at times but left Thailand with a love for them all. That, along with the other interns i met and grew to love, this was an experience that i will look back on every living day of my remaining life. Those of you thinking if this is the right thing for you, don't think any longer. If you want a career in the industry or even just fancy a break to do something different, get there and do it. I learned so much and took away with me so many memories that could take years to fill up a book of memoirs and made enough friends who would take years to round up. In the words of Bryan Adams 'these were, the best days of my life' Goodbye Mermaids, miss you every day...

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Mermaids dive school. They run a very tight ship to other dive operations that I have dived with. All of the courses that I took were taught above and beyond that of average. It's definitely an internship that I would recommend to family and friends. Thanks you Mermaid's Staff.

My name is Bill and I came on the IDC as the only Non-Mermaids student. I did not know any one else and was quite nervous as a result. I also had a lot of pressure on me to really perform which did not help as I made some 'school boy' errors at the start. The staff were really great to me and once I settled in I started to improve and relax far more. My confidence has improved and I am looking forward to working as an instructor and doing what I love.

Well what can I say, 4 months in, starting my IE this afternoon. PJ and Steve tell no lies, you really do get what you pay for, the guys are great and the training is top Quality. Hopefully by the time your reading this I will be an instructor and on another friends trip with PJ watching whale sharks in Phuket...Awesome!

My time here has been an extreme but unique experience filled with great training and fun times. The staff are consummate professionals and an absolute wealth of knowledge and their teaching advice will be indispensable in the future. I highly recommend anyone looking to gain education in the dive industry to look at mermaids as the scope and entirety of programs is excellent.

Hi my name is Dave S. I have been at Mermaids for 8 months. I came here to see new opportunities and have made a new life for myself. I would highly recommend training at Mermaids. The intern ship gives fun opportunities to learn to dive and make new friends and maybe find a new scuba diving career.

Hi I am Kevin Walsh OWSI 59988. I am now non - teaching status and have just attended the IDC at Mermaids 5 star CDC in Pattaya. I've been a PADI instructor since 1993 (teaching has changed so much) I found the staff especially the course directors very helpful. I learned a lot from the course and would highly recommend any PADI instructors to attend an IDC at mermaids. It was conducted in a fun and spirited manner.

I came to Mermaids school by my boyfriend take me to here. First time I saw divers go down to water I want to know what happen down there. I discuss with my boyfriend. I want to try diving and he say OK and now I am Intern and enjoy diving so much. I know now I walk the right way.

Since iv been here at mermaids I have truly found a home and family away from home. This being my first time living on my own for an extended period of time, I was nervous when I first arrived. But after a few days on the boat and a few nights at TQ2's it all changed. Iv been having way to much fun here, the people are great, the instructors are top notch and I cant even fathom the thought of leaving.

Hi guys! I have been part of the diving internship for the last seven months and my biggest and most memorable memories are firstly just how helpful everyone is. From Steve the course director, all the professional staff and especially Mali who latterly runs everything. My second lasting impression is how diving is continuous path through a diving career. I am waiting to complete my OWSI and already I have signed up on yet more courses. Be warned once diving is in your blood it will never leave and it consumes your life, wanting to continue in every way possible. Diving is fun, challenging and rewarding, it is recommended that anyone thinking of an internship should do it and do it with mermaids. Good luck.

Thank you to all the mermaids staff for letting me join you here in the adventurous country of Thailand. Coming here as a dive master you have let me refresh my skills and trained me very well for the Instructor Examination. I look forward to my continued education with Mermaids.

'I don't like water, I don't like boats. Am a man not a fish'(highlander) Started with 10 dives back in May, managed to do Master Scuba Diver with in a month then Dive master. Mermaids gave me the chance to experience the best job in diving, running the boat as a divemaster. Also managed to travel within Thailand and done an organised live aboard to the Similans which was amazing.

The opportunity to advance my SCUBA career came not only through the courses I participated in at mermaids but more importantly the interaction with other diving interns at all levels. The chance to leave an career in the states and interact with student divers from all over the world opened career diving possibilities. A choice I would make again. I would encourage all, as I have done, to initiate conversation with mermaids and two to three other dive schools, the response rate, courses offered and value for money are second to none.

Sigh of relief number 1: The taxi drivers at the airport HAVE heard of Mermaids Sigh of relief number 2: Someone in the shop WAS expecting you when you get there, so it wasn't all a big scam after all! Mermaids really is everything that the website claims, I had an amazing four months there, racking up around 130 dives whilst going from O/W to DM. The level of training they give is superb, going out on the boats everyday, seeing how they are run, gradually progressing to running them yourself all gives you real experience of how dive operators work, which is invaluable experience if you are going to make a career of diving. But its also an awesome social scene, there is always, ALWAYS someone (normally 30 people) to have a drink with after diving or to go out with in the evening. The food is fantastic, in my experience the cheaper the better, you will be eating off street carts in no time, the beer is cheap and cold and the Thais are all genuinely friendly. If you are thinking of going, just go for it, i promise you will not regret it.'

It's funny I remember Jason always saying he wanted to go live in a small beach hut on an island and teach diving. I could never really see myself doing that I thought I would get so bored. But now here I am if I'm not on the boat looking at clear blue water from the beach to a dive site then I am sat outside the shop looking at the clear water from the shore. It reminds me so much of the Similans..... only I haven't seen any Manta ray yet!!!!!! On my first dive here however I saw 4 white tips and an eagle ray so that was cool. Anyway back to what I was saying I didn't really know how to put in to words my experience in Thailand but now I have come here I realize how much my time there meant to me. It's very strange to leave that whole environment and I do miss it. My boss here is fascinated by my whole experience there and the more I talk about I realize that it was an experience and I will never forget it or the people that i met. It has also helped me to get here. I would never of dreamed a year ago I would be sitting on the beach front every morning and diving every day and only a 30 min boat ride from Bali. I just can't get over it.

Hi PJ Thought I'd better send something to you even though I must have told you a million times what a great time I had, I know it will sound biased but what the hell, it's all true. OK, so if you're reading this you're either and old intern in which case hello and hope you're doing great, or you're thinking about joining PJ and Mermaids. I'm really not sure where to start because I just had the best time ever doing my training in Pattaya. The school and the instructors there are 1st class, and I've found out just how good they are since I've started working as an instructor myself (so to all the instructors, I owe you a huge thank you,). I was in Pattaya for about 8 months and didn't want to leave, I joined as an open water diver and ended up an instructor (many thanks again to the instructors on my IDC, especially Claus who made me do the presentations even though I hated them). I am now working in Cyprus and have realized how lucky I was to get the training I did from all at Mermaids. If you're reading the LIA website and thinking that it all sounds too good to be true then you're right, it does sound that way, but everything on this website is 100% te, it is the most unbelievable deal and I have to thank PJ and SB1 again for making it such a great course. I'm trying to write this without sounding biased but I can't so if you do decide to hand over your cash and move half way around the world I can guarantee you a few things from Mermaids and PJ: 1. you will have the time of your life, and you will not regret one single minute. 2. you will meet some of the best people you could ever wish to meet, lifelong friends. 3. you will work hard and have fun, but the training you get will be first class. 4. you'll find out what PJ means when he says 'do you fancy meeting up for a couple of quiet drinks' J 5. you either end up staying longer than you planned or going back there, or like in my case, both. To any old interns, please stay in touch, and to any new one's please feel free to ask me any questions you'll get an honest answer, e-mail holli25x@hotmail.com Hope that will do, I tried to keep it sort of short J

Hi Steve Since I did not get a chance to before flying off on Monday, I just wanted to say thank you for the experience that you and the rest of your staff provided for me. I had a remarkable time, one that I will never forget. If I ever decide to continue with my instructor's certification I will definitely be headed your way, and I hope I can return to Thailand soon even if it is not for that reason! Please keep in touch and thank you again! Happy holidays, C Settar

I was initially scheduled to do my dive training elsewhere in Pattaya but was put off at the last moment due to some doubts about them. I met with Steve and Pj and did not hesitate to book with Mermaid's CDC. Everything here has been as expected and no false promises are given and you pay your money and you receive everything that you expect. I have had no problems at all or complaints about any offered by Mermaids. The quality of the instruction and the professionalism is excellent. There are so many instructors to choose from, you can in some ways decide whom you wish to learn from. The level of some of the instructors is amazing especially their backgrounds. It really shines through on how much they teach you. In some levels of diving it helps to have instructors team teach you. I have enjoyed every minute here. Being located in Jomtien is the best option as you can relax and if you want to go into Pattaya you can easily do so. Mermaids have fantastic staff.

What can I say, I've just come back from the most memorable 9 months of my life! I was a little unsure about sending my hard earned cash to people I'd never met before but it couldn't have been more worthwhile! The instructors and people of Mermaids have not only taught me so much but also become good friends. The atmosphere they create makes you feel part of the family. Thank you B1, B2, HMS, Manx, Claus, Russ, Tom, Frosty, Lance, CS, Nori, Ian, Wayne. You guys have been great! i have also made some great friends who I WILL see again! The list is too long but you know who you are, you lovely people and you really made the ride great! I cannot think of a better training ground that combines great courses, facilities, instructors and friends. Thank you all and when I'm diving with my beloved sharks, I'll be thinking of you all (especially you Tom! Don't worry they're harmless, though the big ones do like the odd SEAL!!!). I will be back very soon!

Arriving in a new place, trying to advance a new career is always going to be scary, but the welcome I received from everyone at Mermaids instantly put me at ease. Having been here for over three months now, I can say that this is by far the most professional outfit in this area, with fantastic instruction and instructors who are always willing to help no matter how busy they are. The diving here may not be the best in the world, but there are some superb wrecks, and ripping currents which provide valuable experience. Unlike sites in the Andaman Sea, diving here is all year round, so you can take your time. When you do finish, most people leave with jobs to go to. The nightlife here is like nowhere I have ever been, and is really something you have to experience first hand to understand. I have made many good friends here, some of who have already left and are dotted around the globe, but we all stay in touch via email. With all these outstanding invitations to visit, I'm not sure where to go first, Dominican Rep., Egypt, Spain.... Happy Days!!

Right then, not too good at this kind of thing but for Pj I will give it a go. It all started in August 04 when I sent him an email, that was the best 5 minutes I have spent in front of a laptop. I got to Mermaids with no scuba training at all, none, zero, zip, but I'm a DM now working in Cyprus with my girlfriend Lucy who is a OWSI, (we met at Mermaids) and I now see just how good my training was because not every one has been trained to the high standards of Mermaids. If your thinking of joining the Mermaids family because that's what it is, book it now because if you don't you will miss out on a few things, like; Toto, Lulu and the girls who will be happy to get you an ice cold beer before you have put your gear away. The bhat bus rides that you take with 25 others (that's if you can beat our record) on the way to walking street. Captain Gai and the chicken boat who always has a smile and a helping hand. Frosty' who sounds like Santa when he's laughing at you down at 30 meters! Chicken on a stick this one I will leave for you to find out! The Llife long friends, and so many more things I can't put in, so for all you who know what I'm talking about and what we are all missing, hope your all doing well and hope to see you all soon. For all you that don't know......well what are you waiting for book and get down to Pattaya. One last thing thanks Pj, I know I say that every time we text, e-mail or go out for 'a few quite ones' so without breaking a habit THANK YOU for all the happy times and for the all the good times we will have when Lucy and me get back in a few months so I can do my IDC and IE. If any of you want to e-mail me feel free, arranlaughton@yahoo.co.uk might see you there in November05 dive well and stay safe Arran - mermaids intern - the rest of my life.

What I can say about Mermaids for any prospective interns is that after recently passing my Instructor Exam in Pattaya having learned everything at Mermaids from Open Water through to Instructor, I have to say that it is extremely great value for money and it is an experience I can never regret. The school enabled me to pass my exams on my first attempt with brilliant results which has been a real confidence booster for myself, not only regarding diving but also as part of life in general. I had the best time in my life whilst I was in Pattaya! The school has great variation regarding dive sites as there are plenty of boats to choose from running daily. The food on the boats is always tasty and the Chicken is more than good. The equipment you get as part of your course is great, considering you get all your books you need to complete your courses, and all your course fees paid as part of the package, not forgetting your really nice apartment for 6 months, when doing the math you can only come to the conclusion that you are 100% gting great value for money. If you are thinking about becoming a diving instructor, Mermaids won''t fail your expectations. It's well worth doing it there!

Hey everyone, I just want to thank you all for a great 8 months in Pattaya. When I saw the website offering a scuba diving internship in Thailand I was a bit skeptical, but I have to admit it was one of the smartest moves I have made up to this point in my life. When you consider that I had NEVER been diving before coming to Thailand, and now I am a PADI professional, it is unbelievable. The hands on training provided by mermaids staff is second to none. They went out of their way to take the time to make sure I mastered the skills necessary to become not just a competent diver, but to excel and that's what made it so special. So thanks to all you instructors, Russell, Claus, Manx, Dave, Tom, B1, B2, Ian, and of course Desi for all the knowledge You gave me. The many friends I have made in Thailand will be friends I keep in touch with for many years to come. To my Long-stay brothers, Jay, Lee, James, Alex 1, Alex 2, Pete, and Steve, You guys are the best! I was really lucky to meet a great bunch like yourselves. To heath, Keep hugging those trees my man, I am sure I will be following in your footsteps soon. About Pattaya, hard to find the proper words to the describe this town. It is the one place I have ever been where the excitement of a big city is wrapped up in a small town (by American standards anyway). There is something for everyone here. One of my favorite moments was on Paul Manx's (one of the Instructors) B-day. Like 12 of us went bungee jumping into that lake, then partied the rest of the night away on Walking Street. What a great night. Well thanks again all and for all you new interns, enjoy it while it lasts, because it will go quicker than you can possibly imagine. Peace, Jeff Santos

I had only planned to stay at Mermaids for 4 months but ended up staying for 8 months! I was a bit nervous arriving in Thailand , I had no idea what to expect, but I shouldn't have worried because I received all the help I needed from the first day I arrived to my last day in Thailand. The instructors were very good and would 'go the extra mile' to make sure you understood the theory work. As for Pattaya if you like cheap food and putting your feet up on the beach for a quiet night you will love it and if you're a party animal then you really will be in your element! The truth is Pattaya caters for everyone. I loved my time there and am already planning a return trip!

I have been here for 7 months and Mermaids is a great place to learn how to dive, all the staff are so friendly. THANKS AGAIN EVERYONE AT MERMAIDS! Last July I was at work in Regina, SK Canada selling mobile phones. I need to do something different I was tired of my 9-5 job stuck in a suit and tie. I previously just returned from Cancun, Mexico and wanted to have that life-style. So I looked up on the internet and found Mermaids Dive Center in Pattaya, Thailand. So I emailed PJ a couple questions on the school and with in less than a day my questions came back. wow that was fast! So after talking with PJ I signed up for the dive for life program and quit my job. I sold my car and bought a flight out to Thailand. 2 weeks later I was there on the other side of the world. I started my Open water with Desi I made it thought that Thanks Desi). After that it was full throttle I did my advanced, Rescue and my dive master course. After the DM course at Mermaids being a DM is great they teach you how to run the boats and organize diving activities and help out on courses. After completing my IDC/IE (Instructors) in March I had the confidence in getting a job. Three weeks after completing my Instructors I sent out my CV/Resume to many jobs all around the world. I ended up find out that there are lots of diving jobs everywhere. I was overwhelmed I had offers in Fiji, Dominican Republic, Barbados, Honduras, Hawaii and Turks and Caicos. Well I ended up getting a great job in Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Island in the Caribbean working at a small dive center. So now I'm living my dream that I set out for last August when I went to Mermaid to start my diving career. I highly recommend Mermaids Dive School because of the Excellent teaching standard that they follow and the friendly helpful staff. Thanks SB1, Russell, Clause, Desi, and Mali for all you help in getting me to where I am today.

I really enjoyed my experience at Mermaids. All of the instructors are very knowledgeable and helpful. The amount of diving you get to do provides experience and education that could take years to gain elsewhere. I'd definitely recommend coming to Mermaids if you are serious about a career in diving.

I arrived at Mermaids in December 2006 planning a 4 month stay. Now 6 months on and I don't want to leave! My whole time here has been fantastic. The dive instructors, facilities and advice have all been excellent. I have made many life long friends with my fellow interns and I wish all of them the very best for the future. Any nervous feelings that I had before arriving here were gone within hours of arrival. All course, Specs, and dives have been smoothly run. My DM course was fantastic and I loved the IDC - Thanks Desi, Ian, Crowley, Derek and Russ. Thanks to all of the staff also especially Malai, Gaew, Crowley, Harvey, Claus, and certainly not least Russ. If you are reading this you should come to Mermaids. It is Awesome!

I was nervous about sending money to a far away company that I read about over the internet. After making my investment and traveling from the US I found that the people that I was corresponding with the other side were for real and my impression of the shop was above average for the location. They have excellent instructors and a lot of friendly interns. I went through my advanced open water to Divemaster first and went back to the US. Steve Blumenthal was very helpful with this. At this writing I have been back for 2 months and am ready to take the IE today and tomorrow. Again with the help of excellent instructors. PS. One bit of personal advice go straight through to instructor in your first trip. Good Luck!

Steve, How are the things in Thailand? I miss the warm water there, it is on average 11 C here but the kelp beds and the wrecks are amazing dives, so it is worth wearing the 7 mil. I decided to only work at sea world part time and I got another job with a dive boat company as there head dive master, In return I of course get paid but also I am able to use there rental equipment for the classes I teach as well as my students getting half price to dive off the boat, so it worked out good for me. So things are good in Sunny San Diego. Thanks again Steve for everything, I really feel like I got a strong dive education from your dive shop working on the dive boats everyday just came natural after going through the internship.

Having arrived in early Feb off of a long flight to Thailand, I didn't know what to expect. As I was already a PADI Advanced Diver I got straight out on to the dive boats, making some new life long friends and having some of the nights of my life. Progressing through all of the training with some extremely good instruction was made fun and easy, especially on the IDC where the PADI Staffs are particularly awesome. Thank you Russell, Crowley, Desi and Ian!!!! This is an experience that I shall always remember!!! Shake and Bake - long live the Hill Tribe...

My Life at Mermaids!! I've just passed my PADI Instructor Exams with great thanks to Mermaids. The Instructor Development Course is well structured with a happy balance between classroom, pool and ocean training that gives an excellent path to the exam. The training staff are very friendly, approachable and flexible in their teaching methods - all round a good bunch and I've met some really good friends here too. I'd be lying if I said it wasn't hard work and challenging at times but a little pain for so much gain - no problem!! Next stop for me is Master Scuba Dive Trainer, again with Mermaids who I am more than happy to recommend to anybody thinking of taking any PADI education programs.

Had the best 7 months of my life!!! Great people and great instruction. I have made some life long friends. I would recommend this to anyone!

Having already attained MSDT rating and accrued a reasonable number of certifications I felt it was time to continue my education by taking the Staff IDC Instructors course. Although my initial training was at another dive centre in Pattaya I felt I would benefit greatly from broadening my horizons and taking the course with the Mermaids Dive Centre. The quality of instruction was far higher than I expected and I benefited it greatly because of it, during the entire course all new modules of training were done directly with the course director Russell should who explained in great detail all the new skills I learned and how to apply them. Anyone that has the opportunity to work directly with Russell should do so, here is a no nonsense approachable course director who is only to happy to share his experience with you in a very open manner. The other thing that impressed me was Master Instructor Claus while listening to him it was obvious that Claus is very knowledgeable in a number of areas especially in the theory and standards section of the course. I felt that had I asked Claus a question on standards or performance requirements he could quote it word for word and probably off the top of his head tell you page and paragraph that the information could be found on. Have I improved my knowledge and ability through Mermaids Dive Centre? With out doubt yes? I feel by far the most interesting part of what I saw was the actual students that had come all the way through the Mermaids system. It was obvious that they had bonded as a unit and because of the friendly manor and almost family attitude that is prevalent at Mermaids these bonds are close and strong, in my opinion life long friends had been made in that group. I was welcomed into there circle with no reservations and made to feel as if I belonged there with them. For that I would like to thank each and every one of them and wish them well in there careers. I was fortunate to be allowed to go with them to there IE and share with them there highs and lows, (what lows there were none they all flew thru it). They also allowed me to join in on the IE celebrations and it was a party to rival all parties. In short I can honestly recommend divers that if you want quality instruction in a friendly open no nonsense manor then you could do worse than consider Mermaids.

What I enjoyed about my entire IDC... * Instructors attitudes - absolutely brilliant! * Put at ease immediately * Can ask them anything * How they teach is amazing. * The presentations have really broadened my knowledge and I loved the experience. * Russell, Desi, and Iain are all really awesome guys.

Having a fantastic time, people are great and really welcoming, our initial concerns that it might not be the best place to come as a 'couple' have been completely unfounded, couldn't have been made more welcome and we are both sincerely looking forward to completing our IDC...............thanks again...for the experience...!

After deciding upon starting my dive training to Open Water Scuba Instructor, I had to weigh up the costs of various different Dive Schools. Once I had made my choice, evidently 'Mermaids' Pattaya, I then was confronted with the fact that I was sending just short of 4000 GBP to a place I didn't even know existed. Upon checking in detail with PADI, both at their office and on their website, I was happy that it did exist. Upon speaking with Peter Scott, (Pj) over the phone in Thailand to clear up any worries and concerns I had, I finally transferred the payment and began the 'The Diving Life' Internship. I arrived in Pattaya on 18th April 2005 , which happened to be in the middle of the Thai New Year Festivities, namely 'Songkran'. I didn't know what to expect of Thailand, as although I'd traveled extensively, had never visited South East Asia let alone experienced Songkran. The morning after my arrival I decided to go down to the Dive Shop, to introduce myself and begin my training. I hadn't got more than 20 metres before someone had thrown a bucket of water over me; then another. When I got to the main road, people were throwing water everywhere. Everyone was soaking wet, including me. What I didn't know was that Songkran was a festival that celebrated both the New Year, but more traditionally, the coming of the rainy season! It is a very old tradition and is celebrated in good humour (I bought my own water pistol very quickly). Mermaid's closes on only 2 days of the year; New Years Day and the Thai New Year (19th April), which happened to be my first day. It wasn't long before I'd been given my Diving Equipment and was on my Open Water Course. Soon enough I'd completed my Advanced and Rescue Courses and was on my way to Dive Master. The diving around Pattaya is good and bad. Some Dive sights have stacks of aquatic life and are a real pleasure to dive. Others are less pleasurable, with less visibility, but require more skill in your diving, so are in a way, equally beneficial. - The training is superb and the conditions being so diverse will stand any diver in great stead no matter where they are off to next. Pattaya itself is... an interesting place to live. It's main industry is it's nightlife, with hundreds of bars and clubs; from Rock n' Roll and Jazz clubs to nightclubs and Go-go bars (some of which are an acquired taste). It is certain to say that you're never without something to do in Pattaya of an evening. Life itself is very different here and although very westernized in parts, respect of many of the Thai's cultures and beliefs, even learning a little of their language can make life a lot easier. It is easy to take advantage of Pattaya's proximity to Bangkok too, as numerous times, to have a break from the diving; I have ventured both North to Chon Buri and Bangkok and South to the beautiful Islands of Koh Phangan and Phuket. When visa runs have been needed, it has given me the excuse to go as far as Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia . I have found that travel within South East Asia is very cheap. Wherever I have wanted to go, there has been someone training here, who has been there, and could advise on the best/cheapest way to get there. Coming close to the end of my time here at Mermaid's and indeed Thailand, I have greatly benefited from the training I've received here. Having these qualifications, backed up with other experience, has given me a Passport to travel the world whilst working (if that word is accurate) at something I really enjoy. To compliment that, I've gained unimaginably from living in yet another country and culture for just over 9 months. John D

Well - what can I say? Fantastic People Warm Welcome Cheap Drinks Great instruction What more could you ask for?

Arrived back from Australia a couple of weeks ago (25th Sept 2006) and now after reflecting on my journey away I have wrote this. Hope fully I can return in the near future, I know of a couple of the others are heading back next year, so I will try and go with them - it all depends on who and where I get a diving job. Any way I will recommend Mermaids to anyone in the future as I have been doing in the past. Well, where do I start. I wanted to become a dive instructor and had very little experience. I researched into many companies around the world and chose Mermaids because of the overall package. PJ's was also quick to respond to any questions, and is always there to help. Felt a little nervous sending a large deposit from myself and a friend to PJ be he assured me it would be ok and it was. Arrived and had a warm welcome from the start. Great accommodation, and invited out straight away (by Katie and the girls) where we met all the others at the dive school and excepted straight away in the group. From then on I made so many friends with my time at Mermaids and its one of the best experiences of my life. I could name you all but it would take so long, so I would just like to say thank you! I hope I had a positive effect on everyone's time there as everyone of you did on mine. I would like to personally thank the instructors. Manx for talking me under his wing, Russell for his experience, Nori for her knowledge, Charlie (what a character), HMS, Lance, SB2, Claus, Tom, Mermaids extremes Steve and John, and of course SB1 (the boss). Plus every other instructor that stayed on after making it that helped. And believe me I have taken something from all the teaching methods of everyone that has made me a confident instructor and I feel so fortunate to have had so many excellent instructors all in the one place. To sum the place up then is it is very professional, great location (you can see the surrounding countries very cheaply while you are there, visa runs, like I did and the trips were amazing!), cheap cost of living, and what myself and all the other interns have all said in their write ups - the friendliness. You feel comfortable, like a family and if anyone wants to contact, meet up or needs assistance on something with me then my email address is Staythman@hotmail.com. Where ever I am in the world, I will look forward to meeting up again with people from the Mermaids family. What A place! Thanks - Andy Statham (Stayth)

Joined the program approx 3 months ago and have really enjoyed the whole experience. Been really well looked after throughout including an excellent induction on my first day.. The programmes are relaxed - you take them at your own pace, the staff are fantastic, everyone is really friendly, beer's cheap - life's pretty good! I am now planning to extend my time here and stay on for the next course...

Hi I'm Delcie I have been here for almost 7 months now and have enjoyed all of it so far. You pay your money to go up to whatever level you want, as well as that you get to dive every day, or as often as you like. The training I have been through has been to a very high standard. You can get as much or as little from this as you like, I am currently on my IDC and considering doing my MSDT I've met loads of great people since being here, everybody is friendly, it does not take long to feel as though you have been here for ages. There are always loads of people at a higher level of training to give you advice, you learn so much just by talking to them. Gotta stop now as I have written too much already.

Hi I'm Jake - I am an X bank manager who decided to throw it all in and along with my wife came to Mermaids with the wild hope of becoming an OWSI. I can honestly say that the experience has been one of the most enjoyable of my life. The social scene has to be seen to be believed. The level of instruction and sheer passion shown by all staff is second to none. Whatever happens now I will remember my time here for the rest of my life. Fantastic Thanks!