by Joan Schroeder

Scuba diving is a sport that allows you the freedom to explore breathtaking underwater scenery in numerous and exotic locations. It is fun for all and even the faint of heart would be glad he/she took the plunge and experienced such an awe-inspiring event. Here are some interesting fun facts about scuba diving that will be sure to peak your interest.

Let Your Bubbles Be Your Guide. Yes your bubbles can save your life. When scuba diving, don't rise to the surface too fast; rising too fast can take the wind out of your sails. Ascending at a high speed causes the air in your lungs to expand too quickly and can cause damage. Use the bubbles from the air you exhale as a guide. You should be rising no faster than your bubbles.

"NARCED". You don't ever want to be "narced" but it could happen. If you are scuba diving and happen to lose your mask, you could "lose your mind". You are suffering from "nitrogen narcosis" when after losing your mask, you start to behave irrationally. In panic mode you try to put your mask back on, but you are not doing it the right way. You put yourself in further jeopardy by getting rid of your regulator and exhibiting other weird behavior. This is when your partner would replace your mask and get you out of there as fast as possible.

by Melanie Burgess

Amid the twirling leis, aromatic flora and fauna, and waving hula skirts, there is a whole other world. The world of scuba diving lies beneath the cerulean waves. This world is just as beautiful as the one above the water, with flora and fauna and wildlife in all directions, just as diverse. Hawaii is a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts, and there are many places to dive from among the islands.

Only 8 of the 132 Hawaiian Islands are popular among scuba divers. The 4 main islands, Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai, are the most popular and cater to all skill levels. Three of the other four, Lanai, Molokai, and Ni'ihau, are easily accessible but are aimed toward intermediate and advanced scuba divers. These sites are dived less frequently due to difficulty but offer unique opportunities for exploration and marine life. The island of Kahoolawe is only accessible via chartered dive boat and is for far more advanced scuba divers.

Oahu is normally the first island that is explored by scuba divers and vacationers alike. There are many dive sites for all skill levels on the island of Oahu. Thirteen beginner, twenty-four intermediate, and six advanced sites give a wealth of dive locations to select from, and each are unique in their own way.