Basic Scuba Gear?

[chicky]

been wanting to try scuba diving for years, but i don't have any idea what gear i should have. is there any specific gear i should have for tropical waters like in the Philippines? and if you have any helpfull scuba tips for first timers like me. thanks! ------

[uwaterskye]

You should go and get lessons first to see if you like the sport: some people discover that they don't like it (claustrophobia, etc) once they've actually tried it. All you might wish to buy initially would be a mask, fins and snorkel. You ought to be able to borrow other equipment (cylinder, backpack/buoyancy device, weights, demand valve, wetsuit, etc) from whoever teaches you. You can buy these expensive items later once you've decided you want to continue.It's a dangerous sport, so you need to know what you are doing. Don't just go out on your own. Safety is paramount.But enjoy it! ------