So what is the best thing about the Turks and Caicos? Why the thing we went there for - the diving. Of all the dive trips we have been on Turks and Caicos was the best; plenty of fish, unspoiled coral heads and huge unbroken sponges. It looked as if we were the first people to dive there and not another dive boat in sight. Our divemasters were helpful and great fun.

The trip could have been a disaster. We arrived at the hotel to be greeted with the burnt out shell of the restaurant and a dysfunctional owner. The day was saved by Annie, the manager, and Dale, who ran Oasis Divers. They took care of all our immediate needs in a way that the islanders probably do all the time. Though we were a small group everyone took it all in good spirit. In fact this trip was a demonstration of what a great group Goin' Down Divin' is. Faced with these set backs, booze and food was generously shared, there was not a whiner amongst us, indeed it was the camaraderie that made this trip stand out.

I have to add that although the hospitality was lacking at the Arawak Inn, the accommodations could not be faulted. We were the only guests there and most of us enjoyed a quiet stroll on the beach before breakfast. It was indeed a memorable trip.

Jane G.