Maldives from shutterstock

With the holiday season in full swing, it’s hard to think about anything other than finding the perfect gifts, family parties, and baking until you can’t ever look at a cookie the same again. Through the hustle and bustle though, we want to remind you that this can also be the perfect opportunity to spend your holiday vacation in paradise, or at least dream about it. Thanks to those that have a serious case of wanderlust, we can enjoy just a little taste of what these destinations have to offer.

Maldives

Join adventure traveler and PADI diver, The Blonde Abroad, while she dives the reefs, explores the land, and experiences the rich local culture of the Maldives. Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a tropical nation composed of 26 atolls, and is knows for it’s crystal clear water. Interested in planning a trip? Learn more about diving in the Maldives through the PADI Vacation Spotlight.

Galapagos

Roberto Ochoa is a PADI Divemaster and Ecuadorian marine wildlife videographer committed to the protection and preservation of the ocean, environment, and all marine life.  He has been working with the National Geographic Pristine Seas Project, launched in 2008 by National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Enric Sala to “find, survey, and help protect the last wild places in the ocean.” As part of the project, he helped create this video that documents the beautiful underwater landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.

Turks and Caicos 

Thanks to the 2nd place video winner of PADI’s 50th Anniversary Contest, K. Ian Wells, we get to experience the best of his scuba diving adventures in Turks and Caicos.  The alluring turquoise waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands feature a vast, thriving coral reef ecosystem and lots of walls. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking walls or wrecks, scuba diving in the Turks and Caicos is both accessible and impressive.

 

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check the PADI Vacation Spotlight page.