Oceans 5 Blog

The Feline Paradise of Gili Air

When one thinks of island getaways, images of pristine beaches, azure waters, and tropical drinks often come to mind. Gili Air, one of the enchanting trio of islands known as the Gilis, not only offers all of these but has an unexpected charm: its feline residents. A haven for cat enthusiasts and animal lovers alike, Gili Air presents a unique cat culture that deserves the spotlight.

No Natural Predators, No Traffic, Just Purr-fect Harmony

Gili Air’s lack of natural predators, such as dogs, creates an environment where cats roam freely and safely. With no motorized vehicles allowed, the island significantly reduces the chances of accidents involving these feline wanderers. In many urban areas, the incessant hum of motorized traffic poses a constant threat to animals, particularly the curious and independent cats. Here on Gili Air, the only sounds accompanying a cat’s stroll are the whispers of leaves and the gentle lapping of waves.

The Heartwarming Bond Between Islanders and Cats

The citizens of Gili Air are the unsung heroes behind this cat utopia. Their compassion and love for these creatures are evident in the way they nourish and care for them. Cats are not just animals on this island; they are cherished members of the community. It’s not uncommon to see locals sharing their meals, providing shelter, or simply showering affection on these cats. And should any misstep occur, the community doesn’t hesitate to stand up against any harm directed towards their beloved felines.

LUNI Lombok’s Cat Clinic: A Testament to Gili Air’s Commitment

If there was ever a doubt about Gili Air’s dedication to its cats, the Cat Clinic organized by LUNI Lombok dispels it. Held multiple times a year, this clinic serves as a beacon for cat owners and enthusiasts. It provides a range of services from regular health check-ups to addressing more pressing health concerns. Through this initiative, residents have direct access to professional help, ensuring that the cats of Gili Air continue to thrive.

Demystifying the Short-Tail Phenomenon

For many first-time visitors to Gili Air, one question seems to stand out: “Why do most of the cats have short tails?” Some rumors, undoubtedly spurred by mischievous tales, suggest that locals cut off the cats’ tails for culinary uses. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. The prevalence of short-tailed cats on the island is due to genetic factors. Inbreeding results in the dominance of certain genes, one of which leads to the characteristic short tail. Far from being a mark of harm, it’s simply a distinctive trait that adds to the unique charm of Gili Air’s cats.

In conclusion, Gili Air is more than just an idyllic tropical retreat. It’s a testament to how humans and animals can coexist harmoniously, given the right environment and a shared sense of community. The cats of Gili Air are not just pets; they are symbols of the island’s spirit, representing love, care, and unity. Whether you’re an avid cat lover or just a traveler looking for a unique island experience, Gili Air promises a purr-fect adventure.

Become a PADI Divemaster and/or Instructor

Becoming a certified PADI Divemaster or Instructor is a significant achievement for any diving enthusiast. In order to excel in your certification, it is necessary to not only understand the performance requirements of the skills but also demonstrate a thorough understanding of their purpose. Additionally, being aware of the various ways to showcase skills and transitioning from being a skill performer to a skill teacher are crucial steps towards achieving the highest scores. This article aims to provide valuable tips to help you excel in your PADI Divemaster and/or Instructor skill circuit.

1. Know the Performance Requirements:

One of the first steps towards acing your skill circuit is thoroughly understanding the performance requirements outlined by PADI. In the PADI Instructor Manual, you will find detailed descriptions of each skill, including the criteria you need to meet to demonstrate mastery. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these requirements and practice them consistently to develop confidence and competency.

2. Understand the Purpose of Each Skill:

Every skill in scuba diving serves a specific purpose, whether it’s enhancing safety, addressing potential underwater challenges, or facilitating diver comfort. By comprehending the purpose behind each skill, you can gain a deeper understanding of why it is performed and showcase your knowledge during the skill circuit. Consider the potential real-life scenarios where a particular skill might be applicable and how it contributes to an overall safe and enjoyable diving experience.

3. Be Open to Different Approaches:

While there may be instructors who have personal preferences when it comes to demonstrating skills, it is important to remember that the PADI standards and performance requirements take precedence. Focus on understanding and fulfilling these requirements rather than solely adhering to a specific instructor’s preferences. Being adaptable and flexible in your approach will allow you to perform the skills to the required standards.

4. Transition from Performer to Teacher:

As you progress towards becoming an instructor, the skill circuit becomes an opportunity for you to showcase your teaching ability rather than just your personal skill execution. The emphasis shifts from demonstrating the skill yourself to effectively teaching others how to perform it. Understand the key teaching points, effective methods of instruction, and how to provide clear and concise explanations to your students. A successful instructor is one who can guide and inspire others while ensuring safety and best practices.

5. Performance with Flair:

During the skill circuit, and in teaching in general, remember that you are the star of the show. Present yourself confidently and perform skills in a slow and exaggerated manner, as if you were on a Broadway stage. Exaggerating your actions demonstrates control and precision while ensuring that the evaluator can clearly observe your performance. Maintain eye contact, use deliberate movements, and display enthusiasm to command attention and leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion:

Scoring high on your PADI Divemaster and/or Instructor skill circuit requires a combination of knowledge, understanding, and effective teaching skills. By understanding the performance requirements, comprehending the purpose of each skill, being adaptable in your approach, transitioning from performer to teacher, and performing skills with flair, you will have a greater chance of achieving the highest scores. Keep practicing, honing your skills, and refining your teaching techniques to become a top-notch diving professional. Good luck!

Are you a PADI Instructor looking to take your teaching skills to new depths? Look no further! At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we’re excited to introduce you to an unparalleled opportunity for growth and advancement in your diving career. Our esteemed PADI Course Director, Sander Buis, has an impressive repertoire of PADI Instructor Specialties that are designed to empower you with unique and sought-after expertise.

With 24 specialties instructor trainer ratings under his belt, Sander Buis is not just an instructor; he’s a mentor who’s committed to nurturing your potential. Whether you’re seeking to explore the mysteries of the underwater world during the night, dive deeper with enriched air (Nitrox), or promote self-reliance among your students, Sander’s range of specialties has you covered.

Expand Your Horizons with Specialties:

Night Diver Instructor Specialty: Uncover the secrets of the nocturnal ocean and guide your students through an enchanting underwater experience like no other.

Nitrox Instructor Specialty: Dive safer and longer with enriched air. Equip yourself with the skills to teach others how to maximize their dive times while minimizing their risks.

Self-Reliant Instructor Specialty: Foster independence and self-assurance in your students as you guide them in mastering solo diving techniques and strategies.

But that’s not all! Sander’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility is truly inspiring. If you’re keen to learn how to work effectively with disabled divers, Sander offers specialized instructor ratings that will enable you to create enriching and fulfilling diving experiences for everyone.

Diving Beyond Boundaries:

PADI Adaptive Teaching Instructor Rating: Develop the expertise to teach and support divers with varying abilities, ensuring that the joys of diving are accessible to all. DDI (Disabled Divers International) Instructor Rating: Equip yourself to provide exceptional guidance and instruction to divers with disabilities, fostering an inclusive diving community.

Sander Buis isn’t just a Course Director; he’s a transformational leader who believes in elevating your teaching skills to unprecedented heights. With his guidance, your teaching journey will take a profound turn, equipping you with the tools and knowledge needed to provide exceptional and unforgettable diving experiences.

Dive Deeper into Excellence:

At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we’re proud to offer a comprehensive array of PADI Instructor Specialties that not only enhance your skills but also empower you to make a lasting impact in the diving community. Join us in this incredible journey of growth, learning, and exploration as we dive into new dimensions of underwater teaching. Are you ready to embrace the extraordinary? Connect with Sander Buis and Oceans 5 Gili Air today, and let’s embark on a journey that will revolutionize your teaching prowess