Blogs
Travelling during a Global Pandemic
Blog by John Spencer-Ades at The Scuba Place
The year 2020 has been, let’s say, interesting, at the least!
The World has been held to ransom by an invisible bug, and the impact has been both deep on a personal level and wide on a global society level. Families have been separated, friends and social life put on hold, people have lost loved ones and businesses have been decimated.
I have learned that I took life for granted to a certain extent – hopping on a plane to go on a dive trip was a very regular activity. Then came COVID-19, and with it, a dawning sense of reality that travel (and indeed diving to a lesser extent) was no longer a right.
With zero income from booking trips for people, plentiful outgoings in the form of giving refunds, and an immediate focus on re-booking existing trips for later in the year, my initial optimism that this would be a short-term thing fell flat on its face when lockdown (v1.0) was implemented.
As the Summer of Discontent extended into the Autumn of Austerity, we focused all of our efforts on constantly monitoring where we were might be able to travel to. The good old FCO list was indeed pretty useless on this note, as it lists only countries that we are allowed to travel back to the UK from, and not necessarily to. The vast majority of the rest of the World doesn’t want us anywhere near them it seems. And, to boot, there are numerous countries that didn’t accurately publish their entry protocols.
We booked group trips in September to various destinations, and then cancelled them or postponed 
them – again. We found new destinations that we could travel to with good diving, booked them, and then the ‘green list’ changed again. We had clients arrive at Gatwick for their outbound flight, only to be told that the rules had changed again, and they would need to quarantine upon return. And we also had clients in resort have their return to the UK impacted, both by the changes made in entry protocols, and indeed the airlines.
So, arranging travel has been like herding cats this year – every itinerary moved, and multiple times but here is the important bit… we actually got to travel in October.
The FCO list stated travel to Grenada was finally permissible, the Grenada Health Authority had clearly set out their COVID protocols for entry and stay, so we had little or no hesitation in booking a trip – for 18 of us! This was a trip that had been rearranged twice already, but the light was green at last!
And here began the challenge……….
Firstly, and easily, we booked our flights with British Airways – direct to Grenada but in reality, with a scheduled touch down in St Lucia. Then came the pre-departure PCR Testing – we had to have one done (and with negative results of course!) 7 days before departure.
Good old BA have a partnership with one of the testing labs, so we all booked and paid for this on-line, taking advantage of the BA discount. The test kits are sent to you by post, you register them online and take the test.
Planning when to take the test is a task – we flew on a Wednesday, so needed to take the test the previous Thursday at the earliest (for entry validity) and by Friday at the latest to ensure we got the results back in time for our departure. So, we stuck cotton buds down each other’s throats, extracted all sorts of bodily fluids, inserted the swab into the test tube, popped them in the post, and waited! The preferential postage service included did the trick, and results were back for some as early as Saturday!
Then less than 20 hours before departure, we received the dreaded email – the flight to Grenada was cancelled! BA offered to take us to either Barbados or St Lucia. Not especially helpful, as both those destinations have different COVID entry requirements and rules for visitors, so for the third time, this trip looked like it was doomed. Those who hadn’t checked in got a phone call from yours truly to explain the situation – some of them were on their way to Gatwick from all parts of the country to stay in a hotel the night before!
There were no available flights on domestic airlines between St Lucia and Grenada and we couldn’t go to Barbados as PCR tests were required within 96 hours of departure and we now didn’t have time to get another test done. Even staying in St Lucia wasn’t an option, as the entry rules required prior registration and approval. There was no other route, as all roads to Grenada are via St Lucia, Barbados or the USA, which is an even bigger ‘no-no’ than the first two choices when it comes to entry, quarantine and all that malarkey.
So, we did what any super-sensible person would have done. Cancel? No – we chartered a private plane 
from St Lucia to Grenada, departing some 1 hour after having landed in St Lucia.
Wednesday morning at Gatwick was surreal. Empty. Desolate. Like a ghost-town. Well, apart from the check in lines as there were so many people who hadn’t been made aware of the flight cancellation.
Security – I have never been through security so fast, even when flying up in the front of the plane. Boarding was super-efficient and socially distanced, and the plane itself was so clean it could have been brand new.
Reassured by the HEPA filters making the aircraft purportedly as clean as an operating theatre, and with face masks donned, we sat and awaited departure. Sure enough, the doors closed, we backed away from the gate and hit the skies. Passengers on the flight (it was approximately 60% full) were all extremely well behaved, wore their masks, didn’t queue for the loos, and generally sat still and helped to empty the bar. This is how a flight should be!
Arriving in St Lucia was even more streamlined – whipped off the plane, personally escorted through test checks, temperature checks, immigration and baggage – and then immediately onto our onward flight. It really could not have been simpler or easier, even with the distraction of spotting a very well-known actor in the queue!
Arriving in Grenada, some 35 minutes after departing St Lucia, was a breeze too. We got a full health briefing, temperature checks and signed our health disclaimers – then it was straight to baggage, immigration, transport, and finally, FINALLY, our resort – True Blue Bay Boutique Resort!
True Blue Bay Resort, Grenada
Given the COVID regulations in Grenada, we were to be held in ‘quarantine’ in the Hotel for the first 4 days, then a test provided by the Ministry of Health on day 5 before being let loose on the island thereafter. Our expectation of quarantine was way more stringent than the reality!
We were shepherded to our rooms, all of which were in one central area, unpacked, and then hit the ‘Quarantine Pool’ – our very own private pool with bar! What could be better than this?! Meals were served in a separate dining room by the water’s edge, and if we didn’t want what was offered on the buffet, we ordered a la carte from the menu. In all honesty, it was like having our own private resort!
Diving was permitted too, as Aquanauts Grenada sit right on the dock in the quarantine area, so after a good night’s sleep, albeit with a very early rise, we humped our kit onto the dive boat, set up, went through the dive and H+S briefings and off we set!
Day 5 had us all lined up like school children outside of the Medical Centre at the resort. Ministry of Health doctors and nurses put nasty things way too far up our noses and into our throats, and the testing was complete – 24 hours later we were all set free!
Breaking out of the quarantine area was great, and we got to take in the whole resort, have a day trip exploring the island, and use the a la carte restaurant and other pools. As brilliant as it was to be ‘free’ we missed our own pool!
So, what was travelling in the COVID World really like?
The airports at all stages of the journeys were exceptionally well organised. Social distancing was almost everywhere, and well adhered to. Masks were worn on all flights and at the airports, in transport to and from the resort, and in the resort itself, floor markings were everywhere, together with numerous hand sanitiser stations. Grenada itself, the resort and the dive centre, really got this right, and we had absolutely no fears.
We wore masks in the public areas of the resort, when interacting with staff (at the bar for example) and on the dive boats. We were even given souvenir masks by the Tourist Board!
Was it a hassle? Absolutely not. In truth, the actual travel was very little different to a ‘normal’ trip (I can remember those, but only just!). We experienced better space – more room on the planes, less crowding at the airports and in resort, and as we travelled as a group, we had our own dive boat. Honestly, it couldn’t have been any better!
What we did learn throughout the whole process of planning and execution of travel during this pandemic, is that we had to be, even more so than usual, ready to deal with last minute changes. So, even with a few hiccups on the way out and back that took some fixing, we had a GREAT time, and made it home safe and sound. And, COVID-free too, but just in time for lockdown v2.0.
If we hadn’t travelled with ATOL protection, and didn’t have comprehensive travel insurance, this could have been a very costly and exhausting experience.
Would we travel again during this pandemic? Yes, and without concern. But only with ATOL and/or ABTA Protection.
Our advice to all who are considering travel during these times is as follows:
- Be prepared for changes – flights, transport, COVID rules. If you have a top-notch bonded Travel Agent behind you, you should have little to worry about.
- Masks – the cloth ones are super comfortable, and you forget you are wearing them.
- Hand sanitiser – take it with you and use it!
- And finally, remember you are on holiday – relax, even if it hurts!
As we look to the future, we are hopeful. Vaccines are coming, testing on departure and return is available, and the rules are changing daily, making it less restrictive in terms of where we can go, and return from with shorter or zero quarantine. We expect there to be highs and lows in our ability to travel over the coming months, and we will just have to deal with them as they arise. COVID is by no means over, but we can see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Our sincerest of thanks for all of the expert support and organisation go out to Grenada Ministry of Health, Grenada Tourist Board, True Blue Bay and Aquanauts Grenada. You got it so, so right!
We will be back!
Find out more about the worldwide dive itineraries that The Scuba Place offers at 
www.thescubaplace.co.uk.
Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces
NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.
Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking
Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:
“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.
A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”
About NovoScuba
Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.
With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.
Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!
Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.
EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba
NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.
NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.
A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission
NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.
NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.
Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration
NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.
Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.
NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.
Quality Training at a Great Price
NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.
Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity
At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.
Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success
NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.
Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload
Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.
Crossover Made Easy
For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.
Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership
NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:
- Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
- Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
- Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.
Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement
NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.
Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth
At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.
Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.
Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution
Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.
For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.
Lumbalumba Resort – Manado is an intimate dive and snorkel retreat nestled in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia—a hidden gem within the world-renowned Coral Triangle, home to the planet’s highest marine biodiversity.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
With only six luxurious chalets (just nine rooms), we provide a cozy, flexible atmosphere where every guest receives the genuine, personal attention they are looking for.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Our philosophy is simple: we can only succeed when you’re truly satisfied. Choosing to stay small allows us to deliver the extra-special, personalized service you seek, making your experience here genuinely unforgettable.
For us, you’re not just another tourist.
For you, we’re not just another dive resort.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Rustique situated in our lush bontanical gardens are 3 different types of accommodation, including a family Chalet.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Enjoy a relaxing dip in our infinity pool, unwind at the bar, and savor mouthwatering dishes from our renowned kitchen—each meal crafted to delight your taste buds in every bite.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Lumbalumba Resort has two different kinds of boat; our inboard powered, custom-made catamaran, Diver III, and Diver IV, our fast outboard-powered dive boat.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Both are very comfortable with lots of space to relax from, to and in between dives.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Experience stunning visibility and vibrant coral reefs teeming with schooling fish. Bunaken is also a haven for marine life, boasting a thriving population of Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles. It’s not uncommon to encounter 15 to 20 turtles on a single dive or snorkeling trip!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
But it’s not just about the big sights and wide-angle views. Close to the resort, you’ll find numerous muck and macro dive sites, reminiscent of the famous Lembeh Strait. And let’s not forget the gem of Lumbalumba—the spectacular House Reef, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Read what what our guests think about us at
Tripadvisor
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And read what our guests think of us at
SCUBAVERSE
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Beyond diving and snorkeling, there’s is much to explore on land as well!
Discover the Tangkoko Jungle, home to fascinating wildlife like the rare Black Macaque, vibrant Hornbill birds, and the world’s smallest primate, the enchanting Tarsius Monkey.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Take a day trip to the Minahasa Highlands to witness active volcanoes, soothing hot springs, bustling local markets, intricate handicrafts, and breathtaking landscapes.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And for thrill-seekers, we offer exciting options like white-water rafting, perfect for those craving an extra dose of adventure!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
We hope this newsletter has provided you with a glimpse into what we have to offer. However, it’s just the beginning—there’s so much more waiting for you!
We offer an incredible combination trip with
Black Sand Dive Retreat in Lembeh
We also offer our
Uncover North Sulawsi program with Pulisan Beach Resort
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
GETTING HERE
The easiest way to reach Manado is by flying with Singapore Airlines via Singapore. There are four direct flights each week, taking just three hours to get to Manado, with departures on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
BOOK NOW!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com
Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974
Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado/
Stay safe and healthy and we look forward to meet you in Manado soon!
Best wishes,
Juud, Roel and the whole Lumbalumba Team
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