Although shallow tropical seas can be wonderfully hospitable, the equatorial sun, long immersion times in the water, and a few annoying marine creatures can make protective attire a worthwhile investment. While recently snorkeling in Fiji, the conversation in our boat focused on two colorful new polypropelene full-body suits worn by Julia and Eric. Two of my friends died last year as a result of this disease. In Australia we're very careful about exposure to the sun. In fact, there's a health program called 'Me No Fry' that encourages children to wear full lycra suits at the beach, and most schools require kids to wear hats with full brims and neck flaps while on the playground outside.
Snorkeling is the perfect activity for an unforgettable sunburn.
While laying peacefully on the sea's surface, entranced with the realm of exotic fish and colorful invertebrates, the rest of the world is easily forgotten. Especially vulnerable are the backs of necks, legs and knees, as well as shoulders, ears, and, well, some mature men's heads. As Eric quietly worked, pulling on his suit, first one leg, then the other, his neighbor on the boat asked why not just use waterproof sunscreen. I can apply that stuff to my ears and neck far easier than to my back, shoulders, and all down my legs. The boatman indicated we'd arrived at the reef and with that, Eric excused himself, and rolled over backwards into the sea.