Destination: Thailand
A PADI National Geographic Diver Event

First Global Event for National Geographic Divers Scheduled for December

Thailand, the name alone conjures up sights, sounds and scents that are at once exotic and thrilling. And, from 30 November-9 December 2006, PADI National Geographic Dive Centers can guide their customers through this land of mystery and adventure as the PADI Diving Society hosts Destination: Thailand, the first in a series of events designed exclusively for PADI National Geographic Divers.

Known for its world-class diving (the Phi Phi Islands, the wreck of the King Cruiser -also known as the “Thai Tanic”- and shark point), Phuket’s dive sites boast visibility ranging from 15-27 metres/ 50–90 feet and water temperatures averaging 28˚ Celsius/82˚ Fahrenheit. PADI National Geographic Divers will encounter a plethora of aquatic flora and fauna, such as lionfish, clown fish, crown-of-thorns sea stars, emperor angelfish, turtles, manta rays and more. But this isn’t just a sight seeing tour -- PADI National Geographic Divers will also participate in a vital coral reef monitoring project, recording important reef data for researchers worldwide. Topside, cultural experiences abound; divers can explore Phuket by land and sea and can experience local customs, native dances and cuisine.

“Destination: Thailand is a unique Society event developed exclusively for PADI National Geographic Divers that will bring together Society members from around the world,” says PADI Diving Society Manager, Theresa Gulledge. “A cooperative effort between PADI Americas in the United States, PADI Asia Pacific in Australia and PADI International Limited in the UK, Destination: Thailand activities revolve around the National Geographic philosophy of supporting exploration, field science, conservation and learning about our world.”

PADI National Geographic Dive Centers* are encouraged to lead their divers on this weeklong adventure to experience Destination: Thailand firsthand.

Packages begin at $2590** US and include roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or New York, USA***; seven nights at the Katathani Beach Resort; breakfast and dinner daily; lunch on boat dives; four days of shore and boat diving; two days of cultural tours and sightseeing; welcome reception; beach barbecue; parties and activities; airport transfers to and from the hotel; and taxes and service charges.

Participants must be PADI National Geographic Divers and members of the PADI Diving Society. To book Destination: Thailand, please contact the Dive Travel Specialists at PADI Travel Network at 800 729 7234 (US and Canada), or at +1 949 858 7234, ext. 2555 or email ptn1@padi.com. *earn one free spot with 15 paid and 10 percent commission. **per person, double occupancy, airfare tax not included ***airfare from New York, USA, slightly higher

© PADI. 2007, all rights reserved.