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Taking To The Skies — Ever Considered a Hot Air Balloon Trip
In 2012, we went to Arizona for a trip that included a variety of activities. One of the things on our bucket (or should that be basket?) list was a ride in a hot air balloon.
Hot air balloon rides are a little more expensive now, typically $100 to $300 per person. Traditionally, this includes champagne after the ride. It’s a superstition thing. Rides can last from one to four hours.
Are Hot Air Balloons Safe?
You’ve probably heard of nasty hot air balloon accidents in the news.
They make the news for a reason: They are incredibly rare. Make sure that the operator you go with has a good reputation and you will be mostly safe. Captains (and yes, they are captains and their word is law from takeoff to landing) go through extensive training.
Your ride will most likely be in the early morning or evening (often very early morning. We had to get up at 4am for hours. Which was fine as we were still jet lagged) because that’s when the weather is calmest. Do not argue if your trip has to be canceled because of weather. No good captain will fly in unsafe conditions. Operators will not charge you unless you actually fly, and will try to reschedule you if possible.