Some people don’t or won’t do this adventure but we are one of many that can officially say that we did. Jessie was our pilot. His comedic, pilot, and driving skills were outstanding. We would recommend you request him for this event. Basket holds about 14 people-7/7. Pilot (Jessie in front of one side of the basket).
Here are a few tips:
- eat breakfast before or after. They give you bagels, bread, and muffins. We needed meat and so forth so we ate at Waffle House meat by afterwards instead.
- your probably not going to see much wildlife besides the ones in the basket with you.
- wear layers of clothing. Yes it’s Arizona but it’s still chilly in the mornings and that cool air helps with the air for the balloon ride.
- we did sunrise trip and it worked out with sun in the sky and we could all see the ground when landing. Yes you have to get up super early for this one but well worth to do a bucket list item.
- bring small bag for water, flask, camera, phone, etc. but hand it to a friend getting in or out of basket cause we watched a lady face plant coming out of basket instead of asking for help (getting on and out is the real dangerous part so take your time).
- don’t forget to tip your pilot if they do a great job and especially give you a soft landing. Our guy Jessie and his crew were the fastest and safest crew we witness that morning.
- drink the mimosas after landing to celebrate on an accomplishment that you and 13 others have just completed.
- stay positive- again you are doing something special and so are the folks joining you- nobody likes a Debbie downer.
Response from Host
Feb 2019
Hello and thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review! Jesse is a wonderful pilot and we are so lucky to have him and our great crew who is so safety oriented. We will make sure to let Jesse know how much you enjoyed him. This pictures you got were absolutely stunning and we appreciate you sharing them, along with some excellent tips. You rock!