Call me a coward, but I'm not the type who is considered dare devil enough to go leaping about in jungle canopies on a zip wire, abseiling down sheer rock faces or leaping of bridges with only elastic round my ankles to prevent an untimely death. No, I like tea, biscuits and a spot of Archers on Radio 4. Having said that, I was given a spur of the moment opportunity to take to the air in a hot air balloon ride. Not one to miss out on a freebie, I eagerly accepted the offer and spent a fairly sleepless night wandering what would await me the following morning.
Hot air balloon rides happen first thing in the morning just before the sun rises so that the experience is as smooth and tranquil as anyone would presume it to be. Scheduling lift off just before dawn breaks means that the ground has not had sufficient time to warm up and start radiating absorbed heat. Taking to the air in a hot air balloon after sun rise makes the flight a lot less steady, and renders the balloon more difficult to control.
I have always toyed with the idea of having a go in a hot air balloon, but was pretty convinced that it would be one of those things that I would never really quite get round to. In my mind, the experience would be still and quiet, and I would be at one with nature. To me, hot air balloon rides are about lifting off into the air effortlessly and having a feeling of solitude and calm. I am obviously a hippie at heart.
One of the most amazing things about a hot air balloon ride is the wonderful views from the air. Booking a flight in the local area gives an opportunity to view familiar places from a whole new perspective, and take in the vast expanse of the local area. It is said that the human eye can see for sixty miles given an unimpeded view. Taking a ride in a hot air balloon offers a rare opportunity to exercise this gift.
Because rides can be taken all over the country, it is possible to take in city views and pick out familiar landmarks as an unusual and unforgettable way of sightseeing. It is a gentle yet exhilarating experience that can turn any scaredy cat into a devil that dares to push the boundaries a little bit further next time.
Author Resource:-
Dom Donaldson is a sporting expert.
Find out more about Hot Air Balloon Rides at http://www.experiencemad.co.uk/Hot-Air-Balloon-Rides
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