My research did turn up some dive opportunities in Beijing.  Mostly it
was lake diving, etc,  as well as some trips to nearby flooded
villages and towns.  Hong Kong it turned out has like 3 feet of viz on
a great day and is completely fished out.

The Beijing opportunities were pretty much of an advanced nature, so
they were unsuitable for my friend.  I have to give her credit though
for wanting to find opportunities.  The woman is a snorkel fanatic.
Whenever she goes out on a snorkel boat she always wants to stay out
longer than everyone else and is constantly diving. She tries to get
in the water everywhere she goes.  All the guides are telling her she
should really get certified, which is what I told her.

I'm going to suggest that she get certified here in California so she
can take advantage of more opportunities when she travels.