Scuba diving is a recreational underwater activity that requires diver equipment that will help you breathe in the water. Unlike snorkelling which usually requires breath-hold, in diving, you will usually have breathing gas pumped from the surface or you will carry your own source of oxygen underwater. So before you head out and get the diving experience, here are some things you should know first.

• Test the shallow water and select a suitable location first. There are factors you'd like to see first before taking your training. This is also to test your limit on how deep the water is, your visibility underwater, the water temperature and conditions, and your knowledge on the marine life - coral reefs, the species, and fishes.
• Even young kids at age 10 can start training, but it depends on some trainers. Your training duration will be only for a couple of weekends or less than a week. Before you head out to the ocean, you'll usually be trained in a pool. You can also experience an introduction to scuba diving even before getting a license. Professional guides will ensure your safety all the way.
• Complete your training and get your certification. Training and getting yourself a diver certification is not that expensive. Think of the expenses that you have with your partner. Only this time, the certificate allows you to enjoy a lifetime of underwater adventure and swimming with rare aquatic creatures. Training agencies will have different entry-level requirements and depending on higher-level grades. The type of certification varies as well - basic, open water, advanced, special skills, and more. Dive shops will ask for your certification before they will allow you to rent gear and of course, for you to actually dive underwater.

• Research more about everything. The right location for you, weather conditions, your own health conditions, water conditions, and the local wildlife. After your training, you'll be able to know what to prepare and what to bring with you. And this way, you'll be able to know what diving site suits you best.

• To buy or to rent. Here are some basic things that you can buy first - a pair of fins, mask and a snorkel. This is worth buying than renting. For gas cylinders and other big-time equipment, that's the time that you can rent it at your friendly local diving rental stores.

• Whether you're a beginner or a pro diver, always have diving buddies with you and make sure that you listen to the pros in terms of what to do and what not to do. Also keep in mind of the training that you had. This way, you and the aquatic creatures will both be safe underwater.