Taking the leap to become a dive professional is an exciting move — and choosing the right place for your PADI IDC course (Instructor Development Course) is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your diving career. Southeast Asia offers some of the best options in the world, with Thailand, Bali, and the Philippines consistently topping the list. In this article, we compare the benefits of each destination to help you choose the best fit for your training, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Thailand: The Complete IDC Experience
When it comes to professionalism, training standards, lifestyle, and dive conditions, Thailand offers one of the most well-rounded environments for becoming a dive instructor. In particular, Koh Lanta has become a standout location for aspiring instructors.
Located on the Andaman Coast, Koh Lanta combines calm conditions with access to challenging sites like Hin Daeng and Koh Haa, giving IDC candidates a wide range of experience. You’ll also find highly experienced Course Directors, excellent training facilities, and a warm, supportive dive community, perfect for building your confidence before stepping into the professional world.
If you’re serious about your diving career, it’s hard to beat the opportunity to train as a scuba diving instructor in Koh Lanta, Thailand.
Pros:
- High training standards and well-established dive infrastructure
- Range of dive sites for beginner to advanced levels
- Lower cost of living compared to Western destinations
- Opportunities for work post-IDC
- English-speaking instructors and strong safety culture
Considerations:
- Busy high seasons can make accommodation harder to find (book early)
- Less nightlife than Koh Tao or Phuket, better for focus, not partying
Bali: Stunning Reefs and Strong Currents
Bali is a dream location for many divers, with dramatic topography, vibrant reefs, and a rich cultural backdrop. Popular IDC locations include Sanur, Nusa Lembongan, and Tulamben. Many training centres offer high-quality instruction, and you’ll get the chance to dive with mantas, mola mola, and explore famous wrecks like the USAT Liberty.
However, if you are starting from the beginning, Bali’s conditions can be challenging for new divers. Strong currents and variable visibility require a higher skill level to get the most from your experience. It’s a fantastic destination if you already have a few hundred dives and want a bit more adventure.
Pros:
- World-class marine life including mantas and mola mola
- Scenic dive sites and interesting wrecks
- Strong tourism industry for future job opportunities
- Culturally rich island lifestyle
Considerations:
- Currents and surge can be difficult for beginners
- Higher cost of living than Thailand or the Philippines in some areas
- Visa requirements may vary depending on your nationality
The Philippines: Budget-Friendly and Beautiful
With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines offers no shortage of tropical training grounds. Areas like Cebu, Bohol, and Puerto Galera are popular for PADI Instructor Development Courses. The country is known for macro life, colourful reefs, and relaxed island living.
The cost of training and living is often lower here, making it an attractive choice for those on a tighter budget. That said, it’s important to choose your training centre carefully. Infrastructure, medical facilities, and instructor experience can vary quite widely depending on the region.
Pros:
- Affordable IDC packages and low living costs
- Excellent marine biodiversity
- Warm, friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere
Considerations:
- Travel logistics can be more complicated between islands
- Some centres may lack the resources or structure of Thai or Balinese counterparts
- Fewer high-volume dive shops hiring newly certified instructors
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Your ideal IDC location depends on your goals, budget, and diving background. If you’re looking for the best combination of affordability, professional standards, world-class dive sites, and a strong chance of employment afterwards, Thailand, especially Koh Lanta offers an unbeatable balance.
Bali is an excellent choice if you’re already a confident diver and want a more adventurous training environment with stunning topography and marine megafauna. The Philippines is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more affordable pathway, but requires careful research into training centre quality.
Ready to Take the Plunge?
Becoming a PADI instructor is more than just a course, it’s the start of a global career and a whole new lifestyle.