Choosing where to complete your PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is a significant step in your professional diving journey. With multiple tropical locations offering comprehensive training, two standout regions are Thailand and Indonesia. While Indonesia—especially the Gili Islands—has carved a reputation for its high-level programs such as the one led by Platinum PADI Course Director Holly Macleod, Thailand has emerged as a compelling alternative for many aspiring dive professionals. This article explores how PADI IDC Thailand compares to Indonesia’s elite programs in terms of training standards, diving environment, costs, career opportunities, and student outcomes.

Training Standards and Instructor Quality

The foundation of any IDC is the quality of training and the expertise of the course director. Indonesia’s Gili Islands are known for their long-standing reputation in producing highly skilled instructors. Course directors like Holly Macleod bring decades of experience and a personal commitment to student success. Her track record, industry awards, and immersive training methods have made this location a prime choice for those pursuing excellence.

In comparison, PADI IDC Thailand also boasts a high level of instructor quality. Thailand has a large network of PADI 5-Star IDC Centers, and course directors in regions such as Koh Tao, Phuket, and Koh Lanta often hold impressive certifications and years of teaching history. However, the scale of programs in Thailand sometimes varies, with some offering fast-track options that may not always match the immersive depth provided in Indonesia.

That said, Thailand’s PADI course directors are known for their accessibility and willingness to mentor even after the course is over. For those who prioritize mentorship and post-certification guidance, padi idc thailand programs offer a supportive educational environment.

Environment and Dive Sites

The Gili Islands offer an incredible setting for dive training. Warm waters, minimal currents, and vibrant marine biodiversity create a perfect classroom for aspiring instructors. From reef sharks to turtles and macro life, Gili’s dive sites provide a balanced mix of teaching environments—ideal for both confined and open water training.

Thailand, on the other hand, presents a different but equally attractive underwater environment. The padi idc thailand experience includes diving at world-renowned sites like Chumphon Pinnacle, Richelieu Rock, and Hin Daeng. These locations are often teeming with pelagic species such as whale sharks and barracudas. While currents can be more demanding in Thailand, this challenge helps prepare candidates for a broader range of real-world diving conditions.

Another consideration is visibility and seasonal variance. Both Thailand and Indonesia offer year-round diving, but Indonesia’s Gili Islands tend to have more consistent visibility and calmer seas, especially during IDC training months. This consistency can play a role in how smoothly training dives are executed.

Cost Differences and Logistics

When evaluating PADI IDC programs, the total cost—including course fees, accommodation, equipment rental, and daily living expenses—can greatly influence a decision. In general, padi idc thailand programs tend to be slightly more budget-friendly. The competition among dive schools across regions like Koh Tao and Phuket helps keep prices competitive, making it a popular destination for those traveling on tighter budgets.

Indonesia, especially the Gili Islands, offers high-end training with a strong focus on quality, and the pricing often reflects that. Programs like Holly Macleod’s prioritize smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and post-course support. While you may pay a bit more upfront, many find the long-term value and professional gains well worth the investment.

Logistics is another key consideration. Thailand has several international airports and a well-established travel network. Getting to islands like Koh Tao or Koh Phi Phi is relatively simple. In contrast, traveling to the Gili Islands typically involves flying into Bali or Lombok, followed by boat transfers, which can add time and cost to the journey. For some, this is part of the adventure; for others, convenience may tip the balance in favor of Thailand.

Career Placement and Networking

Post-IDC career placement is one of the most critical aspects of any instructor course. The Gili Islands' programs—especially those under elite instructors like Holly Macleod—are highly connected within the global dive industry. Many past candidates have gone on to work across Southeast Asia, the Maldives, the Caribbean, and even in cruise ship operations.

Thailand’s diving industry is vast and well-established, making padi idc thailand an excellent launchpad for a diving career. Dive schools across the country frequently look to hire from local IDCs, and many course directors have direct links with hiring managers and resort owners. Thailand also offers strong community networking among dive professionals, allowing new instructors to quickly integrate and find opportunities.

The size and scale of Thailand’s diving sector mean more job openings at any given time. However, standing out in a larger pool of newly certified instructors may require additional specialties or personal branding, which many Thai IDC centers now offer as part of their training packages.

Student Feedback and Outcomes

Feedback from former IDC candidates provides valuable insight into the training experience. Graduates of the Gili Islands’ instructor program often highlight the personalized attention, comprehensive curriculum, and support during the Instructor Examination (IE). Many mention the transformation they undergo—not just in skill level but also in confidence and professionalism—under instructors like Holly Macleod.

On the other hand, padi idc thailand programs receive high marks for accessibility, value, and flexibility. Many students appreciate the cultural experience of living and training in Thailand, as well as the diversity of their peer groups. The training environment is often described as relaxed yet professional, and students feel well-prepared for both the IE and real-world instruction.

While outcomes vary depending on personal effort and goals, both regions produce highly qualified PADI instructors. It often comes down to the candidate’s preferred training style, location, and long-term career aspirations.

Conclusion: Both regions offer exceptional training, but Thailand provides unique cultural experiences and diving accessibility

Both Indonesia’s Gili Islands and padi idc thailand programs deliver high-quality training for aspiring scuba instructors. If you're seeking mentorship under globally recognized course directors and an immersive dive-focused environment, Indonesia—particularly the Gili Islands—offers unmatched quality and prestige. Programs like the one offered by Holly Macleod consistently produce top-tier dive professionals and maintain a strong network for career development.

However, if your priorities include a more budget-conscious route, ease of travel, or a desire to immerse yourself in Thai culture while still receiving excellent instruction, then padi idc thailand might be the ideal fit. With a variety of dive environments, strong community networks, and flexible training options, Thailand continues to grow as a leading destination for PADI instructor development.