ASIA Travel Tips.com

(http://www.asiatraveltips.com)

The number and quality of diving shops in the Thai capital, Bangkok, has grown rapidly over recent years. Everything is available from just snorkels, masks and fins to the latest BCD's, regulators and computers etc and all at reasonable prices. 

These days, it is possible to buy most of the major brands, and models, from these shops which are all located around major shopping areas. Unfortunately for the customer however, there is not yet one shop that sells all the different brands. This means each shop specialises in a certain brand, so it can help reduce your travelling and shopping time by doing a little research into what it is you need etc. before visiting the shop.

It should also be kept in mind that incredibly (considering the prices of some Scuba equipment) that only ONE shop accepts American Express (see our section on Foreign Currency / Money Tips), and that is the highly recommended Planet Scuba shop which is located on Sukhumvit Road, just a quick walk from the Emporium Shopping Mall. All the other shops only accept Visa, or MasterCard, which Planet Scuba also accepts. Another somewhat bizarre decision by some of the Diving Shops in Bangkok is to close over the busiest tourist seasons, such as New Year! Again, this is somewhere that Scuba Pro (mentioned above) stands out as it is open 365 days a year. It is always worthwhile therefore checking with the shop you plan to visit whether they are open the dates you need.

Below we list most of the major Diving Shops in Bangkok, their location, what credit cards they accept, and what brands they sell:

Planet Scuba: This shop is a must visit. The staff are highly professional, knowledgeable, and willing to help. The shop, which covers four floors, sells everything you could possibly need as a recreational diver, and accepts ALL major credit cards. Brands sold include Mares and X. Planet Scuba is located on Sukhumvit Road right next to the Phrong Pong Skytrain station exit XX, it is also a very brief walk from the Emporium Shopping Mall. Planet Scuba is also related to the Dive with Sharks programme in Bangkok. 

Dive Supply: Another excellent shop, and a main supplier to many of the Diving Shops in Bangkok. Dive Supply is located on Sukhumvit Road Soi 23 not not too far from the Asoke Sky Train or Sukhumvit Underground stations. Visa and MasterCards are accepted.

Dive Master: Located off Asoke Road, not too far from the Asoke Sky Train or Sukhumvit Underground stations. A good selection of equipment. Sells mainly Sherwood. Accepts only Visa and MasterCard.

Dive Indeed: Pretty much next door to Dive Master. A small shop which accepts only Visa and MasterCard.

More shops to come.