Are you looking for a flying experience that doesn't involve wings and propellers? If so, then you should certainly consider hot air balloon rides.

In fact, did you know that the hot air balloon uses the oldest technology for human flight? In the late 1700s, two Frenchmen (the Montgolfier brothers) invented the “modern” hot air balloon. Over two centuries later, the experience of riding in such balloons has remained as exciting as ever. Here are some of the main benefits of a ride in a hot air balloon:

1. It's unique

While you have several different flying options, balloon rides are certainly one of the most thrilling types possible. They're much slower than trips in helicopters or aeroplanes, making hot air balloons perfect if you want to enjoy a relaxing tour of the Hunter Valley. Such tours can provide a one-of-a-kind experience to celebrate red-letter events such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and more.

2. It's safe

Due to hot air balloons' technology being more basic than other forms of flying, you might be wondering: are they safe? Not only are balloon rides safe, but they're one of the safest ways that you can fly! That should certainly be reassuring for anyone who wants their flying experience to be as safe as possible. Both the hot air balloon pilots and the balloons themselves must meet rigorous safety standards. This will help to give you peace-of-mind while soaring high in the sky.

3. It's (relatively) low

While hot air balloons fly over treetops, they usually hover below 3,000 feet (about 915 meters). This range provides multiple benefits. It allows the pilot to manoeuvre the hot air balloon at an optimum height — thus making hot air balloon rides as safe as possible. That's not all! The relatively (in the world of human flight) low level of flying will help to provide peace-of-mind for those travellers who are somewhat uneasy about any flying experience whatsoever. By choosing a ride in a hot air balloon, you can soar through the sky - without feeling like you're skyrocketing to outer space.

4. It's relatively motion sickness-free

Motion sickness during balloon rides is almost non-existent. That's because during the majority of the trip, the balloon travels at the speed of your environment. The only time that an extremely rare instance of motion sickness is possible, is during the take-off and landing of the balloon. These events tend to last just a few minutes, so the risk is minimal. What's the bottom line? Very few people experience motion sickness during hot air balloon rides, so it's highly unlikely that you will.

5. It's affordable

It's true, hot air balloon rides aren't as cheap as hiking along the ground below them. That said, they're much more affordable than other modes of flying, such as via helicopters and aeroplanes. So that's definitely a plus whether you're on a shoestring budget, or simply wouldn't mind saving some money during your holiday. It's great any time you can save money on travel expenses.

6. It's comfortable

Since hot air rises, you should expect the temperature in the air to be steamy, right? It's possible, but not guaranteed. That's because during hot air balloon rides, the temperature around the hot air balloon will basically be the same as the ground temperature. In fact, it will likely be just a little warmer. How about the wind chill factor? Since the hot air balloon will be travelling at the same speed as the winds surrounding the vessel, the wind chill factor is eliminated. What's the bottom line? If you're going to fly during the summertime, make sure to fly at sunrise.

7. It's the perfect photo opportunity

If you choose to go on a hot air balloon tour, you'll most likely want the memory of your experience to last long after the actual tour. At Hunter Balloon Rides we encourage you to take as many photos as you can during your hot air balloon ride. This gives you the perfect chance to capture the breathtaking sites that you enjoy during your balloon trip—forever.

To find even more reasons why Wine Country Ballooning-Hunter Balloon Rides will give you the hot air balloon ride of your life, contact us today.

by +John Wright