Hot Air Balloon Information Resource
All About Hot Air Balloons!



Very few things attract excitement and curiosity like hot air balloons. Nearly everyone stops and watches when they catch a glimpse of one, and it's no wonder. People have always been fascinated with flying, and nothing beats being "lighter than air" while hot air ballooning.

Imagine floating high in the air, watching the world below in all its beauty and wonder, houses and cars looking like toys. Imagine breathing the fresh air, and leaving all of life's problems behind as you spend the most fabulous morning or evening imaginable. What is this wonder that brings excitement to nearly everyone, or can cause a couple to have the most romantic time of their lives? Of course, it is hot air balloon rides.

The wicker basket is comfortable and the experience is almost like floating. 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 a hot air balloon ride with your favorite person is simply unattainable, 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 balloon flight service close to you, just waiting to take you on the ride of your life.

The components used to make a hot air balloon have changed very little since the invention of the first hot air balloon in the late 1700s. Of course, we now use modern materials and fuels, but the basic design and principles of ballooning have barely changed in over two centuries.

Taking a hot air balloon ride can truly be a trip back in time. Create your own personal chapter in hot air balloon history.

It's good to be prepared when booking a hot air balloon ride. Most flights 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 magic panoramic views.

Most hot air balloon flights last anywhere from one to three hours, and you'll 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 is ever absolutely sure where they'll land in a hot air balloon, an adventurous sightseeing trip after the ride is often an added bonus. Most flights are followed by a champagne toast, and you will generally receive a certificate that you are now "lighter than air".

If you've never been on a hot air balloon ride, you're in for a treat! Most flights are extremely smooth and gentle, and can even be perfect for people who are not that comfortable with heights. Pilots must be certified, and all equipment is examined and safety-checked thoroughly before passengers are ever taken up. Hot air ballooning is a safe, exciting, and fun activity for the entire family!

Here at HotAirBalloonStop.com you'll find both educational and informative information on hot air balloon rides, the history of hot air balloons, and interesting facts and figures. We also link you to some of the top ballooning sites on the internet. We're your one-stop hot air balloon information resource!



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