Imagine drifting on the breeze, watching the world
drift below in all its beauty and splendor, buildings and vehicles
looking like toys. Imagine leaving all of life's problems behind as you
spend the most fabulous morning or evening imaginable on a hot air
balloon flight.
Begun in the 1700s by several Frenchmen, building
and flying hot air balloons has really not changed that much over the
years, except that hot air ballooning is safer and more popular than
ever!
The basket is comfortable and the experience is
exhilarating. No matter what terrain you fly over, or how many flights
you've taken, each experience is a once in a lifetime event. You and
nature seem to be one as the world glides beneath you.
If you think hot air balloon rides are expensive
and hard to find, think again. In fact, it's very affordable, and hot
air ballooning is becoming more and more prevalent all over the world.
There's probably a hot air balloon flight service close to you, just
waiting to take you on the ride of your life.
Educate yourself and be prepared when booking a
hot air balloon flight. Most launch either at dawn, or just before
dusk, due to the winds being at their most favorable at those times of
day. Dress comfortably in light layered fabrics, and bring a hat and
sunglasses, as well as a light jacket. It can be very warm in the
basket, but you will be surprised how much cooler the air is a few
thousand feet off the ground! And don't forget your camera, to capture
those magical panoramic views from high above the earth.
Most hot air balloon flights last about an hour,
and you will be picked up by the "chase crew" who follow the balloon in
a vehicle and meet the balloon upon landing to collect the equipment
and passengers.
Because nobody can be absolutely sure where you
will land in a hot air balloon, a side trip by car after the ride is
often an added bonus. Most flights finish with a champagne toast, and
you generally receive a flight certificate to commemorate the event.
If you've never been on a hot air balloon ride,
you're in for a treat! Most flights are extremely smooth and gentle,
balloon pilots must be FAA certified, and all equipment is examined and
safety-checked thoroughly before passengers are ever taken aboard. Hot
air ballooning is a safe, exciting, and fun activity for the entire
family!
Modern
Hot air ballooning is very safe. It is also very unique. A hot air
balloon ride makes a
memorable gift.
