Singapore is famous for its beautiful reefs filled with gobies, nudibranchs, and other incredible marine life; if you’re planning a vacation to the region, consider choosing dates that coincide with Singapore’s Asia Dive Expo (ADEX). This annual event has been getting better with each year that passes, so it’s no surprise that many attendees and participants find themselves returning year after year.
Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) - When
The Asia Dive Expo takes place each year in April; the 2015 show is scheduled to run from April 10 – April 12. Be sure to check the ADEX website for this year’s dates and specific information about presenters and exhibits.
Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) - Where
ADEX typically takes place at the Suntec City Exhibition and Convention Centre; it is located at number 1 Raffles Boulevard in Singapore, and is only 20 minutes from Changi International Airport.
Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) - Event Highlights
Each year, the Asia Dive Expo focuses on a specific type of marine life and offers attendees the opportunity to learn all about that animal. The theme often carries over into costume contests and special photo contests, with a variety of prizes available for the winners. This year’s show is dedicated to the playful and intelligent dolphins.
In addition, there’s a strong focus on overall marine conservation. Conservation groups are very well represented at ADEX, all with amazing information, outstanding displays, and lots of compelling photos and videos to share. While we’re on the subject, there is a wonderful photo contest as well as an underwater film contest you can participate in; prizes in the past have included big ticket items like dive trips and specialized scuba gear, so don’t be shy about putting your work out there for the world to ooh and aah at!
Speakers ranging from professional photographers to expert technical divers provide seminars throughout the event, and scuba gear manufacturers have all kinds of new toys for divers to try. If you’re bringing kids with you, there’s a pool set aside just for kids “try scuba” sessions, too.
Representatives from travel companies attend ADEX in force, as do reps from a wide variety of dive shops located all throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Whether you’re hoping to find information or great rates on complete dive packages through a resort or if you’re more interested in saving money on an extended liveaboard vacation, you’ll almost certainly find someone here who can set up a great trip for you at a special price reserved just for attendees.
Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) - Places to Stay and Things to See
Hotels.tv is the official hotel booking agent for ADEX 2015 and Asia Dive Expo participants and attendees are eligible for a special rate at many of the area’s fantastic hotels. There are lots of after-hours events to participate in, so staying at the same site as most other participants means you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy even more fun and social interaction with other like-minded people.
While there are many topside attractions in Singapore, we’d like to suggest that you take the opportunity to spend at least a little time diving. There’s no shortage of dive sites in the area, and there are a number of outstanding dive operators (some of whom you’ll likely meet at the show) who will be more than happy to take you out to see their favorite dive spots. No matter what you do though, have fun – and prepare to find yourself looking forward to a repeat visit to ADEX.