COZUMEL ISLAND October 1998

Bill 'Knob' Knoblauch, one or your escorts on this trip responds to questions provided to us to help you better prepare and then better enjoy your Cozumel experience. Knob has been to this particular resort seven (7) previous times and has the rare incite of an insider. Thanks Knob for your answers! I've even have added some responses to the questions also!

Question 1: (July 4, 1998) What form of money should we take? Travelers checks?

Knob's Answer 1:

I've found that credit cards work great in Mexico. Also, they have ATM's there now. I've accessed my credit union account and gotten Pesos out of it. Didn't cost a thing, and the exchange rate was the best in town. Looking forward to next week (July 11, 1998, Knob is travelling to Boise to present an in person discussion about Cozumel 98), should be great fun.

Phil's Answer 1:

$ Usually like ones and fives, nothing bigger than 10s. credit cards work the best. meals are included, diving is included, need cash for taxis, extra food off premises. Travelers checks work.

Question 2: (July 4, 1998) Where do we get passports?

Phil's Answer 2:

If you would like to obtain passports try, which is a US State Department web page for applications for passports (http://travel.state.gov/passport_services.html). Otherwise you will need to bring an original copy of your birth certificate, with the embossed seal of the state where you were born.

Question 3: (July 4, 1998) What shots should we have?

Phil's Answer 3:

Shots, tetanus within 10 years and typhoid!

Question 4: (July 4, 1998) What physical should we have?

Phil's Answer 4:

Because by signing up for this trip you are automatically enrolled in the Ocean Reef Ecology Specialty, you will need to have a PADI Medical Statement and Medical History completed! The following is taken directly from the form.

"To the Participant:

The purpose of this medical questionaire is to find out if you should be examined by your doctor before participating in recreational scuba diver training. A positive response to a question does not necessarily disqualify you from diving. A positive response means that there is a preexisting condition that may affect your safety while diving and you must seek the advice of your physician.

Please answer the following questions on your past or present medical history with a YES or NO. If you are not sure, answer YES. If any of these items apply to you, we must request that you consult with a physician prior to participation in scuba diving. Your instructor will supply you with a PADI Medical Statement and Guidelines for Recreational Scuba Divers's Physical Examination to take to your physician."

If you have completed one within a year of October 15, 1998, we can use it.