Glad to see the voice of reason here.....

27 years of diving have proven several things to me.

1. Test your gear before you go on vacation.
2. Don't dive a new area unless you have someone local with you.
3. GET YOUR CERT DONE IN THE STATES FIRST..cause once you do you'll have more time to dive in AC.

Open water dive certs ok there..takes a day or so but you'll be much more comfortable.

Ac has some great dives..try to hit Lighthouse if you have time..The "Aquarium" dive ROCKS!

If you go to my web page you can see some of what you will see...

Have a wonderful time!

Life May Be a Beach...I prefer Reefs...