There are lots of reasons why you might want to take a hot air balloon ride. You might love trying new things and having exciting adventures. You may love heights and be naturally drawn to ballooning. However, many people who try hot air ballooning aren’t like this. If you’re like a lot of people, you’re not so sure about heights. The thought of a hot air balloon ride sounds fun…but a little scary!
Rest assured that a hot air balloon ride is just as safe as a plane ride, car trip, train ride, roller coaster ride, or any other comparable travel. If not more so. Each part of the balloon will be tested and retested before passengers are ever flown. The nylon envelope that forms the balloon is fireproof and sturdy. Passengers ride in a wicker basket that’s designed to hold lots of weight safely yet still be flexible enough to absorb impact upon landing. The baskets do not shake, sway or tip. There’s no chance of falling out — all passengers are completely safe.
Now that safety has been addressed, let’s talk about the fun stuff! Your hot air balloon ride will usually last around an hour. It’s hard to say how far you’ll travel, or where you’ll land! There will be a chase crew on the ground that follows the balloon as it flies. This is not only for safety, but so that the chase crew can meet the passengers on the ground with champagne, transport them to their hotel or other location, and take care of packing up equipment.
So how exactly does a hot air balloon work? Hot air is supplied to the balloon envelope which causes it to rise. This hot air is created by a propane cylinder that uses a series of tubes to transport fuel to the pilot light as well as the valve. When the pilot opens the valve, he can lower the balloon or slow it’s progression. The pilot uses wind direction at different altitudes to carry the balloon horizontally.
Your balloon ride will take place at sunrise. You may wonder, why so early? It’s because the weather and wind are at their most favorable at this time. Dress in comfortable clothes, light layers, and flat soled shoes. Don’t forget a camera, as you’ll definitely want to document your exciting hot air balloon adventure!
Wondering where you can find a hot air balloon ride company in your area? The Internet is a great resource that can help you find providers in your locality. Most websites will offer contact information, pricing, special package deals, and even information about ballooning and sometimes photographs. A lot of sites even let you reserve your trip online! With all the different options available to you, you’re sure to find the perfect hot air balloon ride provider, and have an experience you’ll never forget!
