If you are looking for yet another reason to travel to China, this might just be it. Each year, a massive three-day dive expo is held in Guangzhou, which is China’s third-largest city. This impressive international dive expo attracts people from all over the world – you never know who you might bump into when you visit!
Dive China Expo - When
The annual Dive China Expo is held at the end of April over a period of three days including a Friday, a Saturday, and a Sunday; this year’s show takes place April 28 – May 1. The show typically opens to the public at 9 am and closes at 5 pm. On the last day, it normally closes earlier; usually around 2 pm.
Dive China Expo - Where
A dive show of this size takes a huge amount of space. The Dive China Expo is usually held at the Asian International Yacht City. This is easily accessed via taxi and rail, and many hotels are within easy walking distance.
Dive China Expo - Event Highlights
Not only will you find plenty of your favorite scuba brands well-represented at the Dive China Expo; you’ll also get the opportunity to enjoy presentations from PADI, DAN, and other well-known organizations. For those who want to try diving but have yet to become certified, a special “try diving” feature provides a quick introduction to scuba.
Liveaboard dive operators are usually well represented at this show, as are representatives from popular dive shops located throughout the tropics. Dive resort owners are usually present as well, and as you might expect, they sometimes have fantastic travel packages to offer.
Representatives from the Philippines, Malaysia, the Solomon Islands, and other fantastic destinations are normally on hand to share photos and travel information, and as a special bonus, you’ll get the opportunity to see a number of yachts and boats from top manufacturers. The show’s organizers also invite representatives from water parks, surf companies, and other water sports experts to participate, making this a wonderfully well-rounded event.
Finally, there’s an outstanding photo competition, along with offerings from photography and videography equipment companies. A festive dinner party with games and prizes completes the festival and gives participants a chance to enjoy one other’s company.
Dive China Expo - Places to Stay and Things to See
You may already be considering a trip to Guangzhou; after all, it is a major cultural hub with a rich and diverse background. Located in the heart of southeastern China’s Pearl River Delta, the city is renowned as China’s first trading port.
There are many hotels located near the China Dive Expo, and after you’ve finished enjoying daytime activities at the show, there are many things to see including the Shamian, which was China’s first European settlement. The Guangdong Museum of Art is another attraction not to be missed, and at the Western Han Nan Yue King Museum, you’ll find a 2,000 year old Han Dynasty tomb and many other fascinating cultural treasures.
For travel to China, make plans well in advance as you will more than likely need to obtain a travel visa.