Thank you all very much for the help. It has been so fun to read this message board and I have learned a lot about service and goods including who's who in the Dive Master world, good restaurants, where to stay in Punta Gorda (thanks Lan!) and just a good feel for the culture of the island. I still, however, have not figured out what mQQse is saying half the time.
I was somewhat taken aback by the intensity of the exchange on the Protech Dive experience. WOW!
I will be checking in with Protech, Gaz, Searious, Barefoot, Hustlers and a few others to line up our dives. Any other recommendations for DMs? I am newly certified with just 4 dives post certification. However, I was certified in the Pacific Northwest where water temps are between 42 and 53 degrees this time of year! Took about 25 minutes just to gear up with 7mm wet suits plus everything else needed to keep warm. Also had to pack 35 lbs of weight to offset all the bouyancy. Can't wait to dive in warm water! 32 Hours and counting!