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Paris

The Red Sea, Belize and the Cayman Islands are all scuba-diving hot spots, but what about Paris?

As of today, would-be divers can take the plunge in the landlocked French capital, with a practice dip in a pool beneath the city's most famous monument, the Eiffel Tower.

A dozen professional scuba instructors are offering one-on-one lessons in the heated, above-ground pool at the foot of the tower as part of an initiative to promote the sport among Parisians and visitors.

The lessons last about 30 minutes and include a how-to demonstration and safety lecture as well as the swim. Wet suits, scuba gear and a biodegradable towel are provided.

The best part: It's free.

The pool has waterproof photos of fluorescent fish. Just 4 feet deep, it's safe for beginners and children age 8 and older, said the event's organizers, an umbrella group of scuba associations.

New Zealander Adrian Carter was among the first to get his feet wet today — Day 1 of the initiative, which lasts through June 10, 2007.

"I came here to see the Eiffel Tower, but this is better than the Eiffel Tower," said Carter, a 28-year-old computer programmer and first-time diver. "Through the water you can see the monument. It's magnificent."

Still, unseasonably nippy weather appeared to discourage other divers. With Paris temperatures hovering around 60 degrees on Friday, more people were milling around the pool's perimeter, watching the instructors' underwater antics, than actually lining up for a lesson.

Organizers expect up to 3,000 people to take the plunge during the 10-day-long event — if the weather improves.

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