Diving and Snorkeling

by Judith Anshin, Contributing Editor

by Larry Taylor; Fullerton, CA. Photos by Gail Taylor.

In my opinion, El Nido (head office, Makati City, Luzon; phone +63 2 894 5644, www.elnidoresorts.com) is absolutely the world’s best tropical island getaway.

by Bill & Betty Reed Denton, TX

I thought ITN readers would be interested in my assessment of clothing and equipment used on my April ’09 trip to the Galápagos with GAP Adventures (Toronto, Ont.; 800/708-7761). Some items were old faithfuls and some were purchased for this trip.

Two absolutely essential items are a wide-brim hat and walking shoes with good tread.

My husband, Joe, and I decided to go to French Polynesia, Sept. 20-24, 2009, for our 10-year wedding anniversary.

by Cesar Beltran, Contributing Author

by Larry Taylor; Fullerton, CA

There is no doubt about it: the best snorkeling and diving in the world can be found in Raja Ampat. This west Indonesian archipelago contains more marine biodiversity than anywhere else in the world.

by Debi Shank, ITN

We took a superb cruise in French Polynesia, Oct. 30-Nov. 12, 2008, with Grand Circle Travel (Boston, MA; 800/248-3737, www.gct.com). The ship was the Paul Gauguin of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. It carries 330 passengers and is truly a luxury vessel, featuring a state-of-the-art retractable water sports platform, with complimentary water-skiing, windsurfing and kayaking.