With specific requests, it depends on what they want and why.

We've had requests to do specific (regional) cuisines and chose Spain because people are familiar with some of the food, but don't know how to make it.

People believe a 5- or 10-gallon tank is easier, but the truth is, the more water, the easier it is to take care of. I recommend that people don't go under 30 gallons.

When starting out, you should find a place where you can trust the information and you're comfortable. Then, if you have questions, you can always go back. When you start dealing with a lot of places, you get a lot of different opinions.

You have to take the time to understand the process.

For beginners, I suggest trying freshwater first. The maintenance is basically the same. What differs is the cost of the fish. Freshwater fish start around 25 cents apiece, but saltwater are more like $5.