Snorkeling the Fear Away in Barbados
One of the prettiest reefs in the world can be found in Barbados and our trip certainly included snorkeling activity. The problem was I’m quite afraid of deep waters. Swimming was no problem in a pool where my feet can still touch the floor but it’s pretty hard to go snorkeling if your brain keeps telling you you’re gonna drown.
Sun bathing, reading, and swimming on the beach might be safe and risk free but the thought of passing off an opportunity to witness one of nature’s hidden treasures seemed blasphemous.
We were staying at a small hotel in Barbados, with a view of the Caribbean sea so beautiful it’s almost surreal. The hotel staff was very helpful in recommending a diving instructor who was patient enough to guide a couple of snorkeling newbies.
I found out that to save on money, snorkeling equipment can be rented or in this case, for the lesson, borrowed. Luckily, I’m not a germaphobe. I was told they soak the masks in germicide after use and that’s good enough for me. It’s important that the mask fits your face or you’ll find out exactly how salty the sea water is just like I did. It’s nerve racking at first to trust that you won’t drown if you breathe underwater but if the equipment fits properly, you’ll instinctively breathe through your mouthpiece.
Do you remember watching TV or movie where the diver spits on his mask? Yup, they actually do that to prevent the mask from fogging. There is an alternative to this if you’re not too keen on putting on a mask with spit on it. There’s a spray product in scuba shops just for this purpose. But as I said, I’m not a germaphobe so I spit on the mask and spread it nice and even and rinse it once.
There really is no more peaceful feeling than watching fish and turtle swim with you in the tranquil sea of the Caribbean. Once I get over my initial panic, I float naturally on the water and wonder at the sight that the ocean conceals and all my fears were forgotten.
