My wife, stepdaughter and I took this flight whilst travelling through the western states, and it gave us an entirely new perspective on this area that we like so much. The Rainbow Ryders set-up in northern Phoenix is impressive; new facilities with large check-in areas, restrooms and gift shop. We just about got there on time (don't underestimate the Phoenix traffic at 6am!) and signed the waiver forms. Soon after, we were introduced to our pilot (Jessie) and our ground crew (Ryan) and were taken out to the truck that was already loaded up and ready to go.
Given the numbers, there were two balloons going to be launched this morning; but we struck lucky as we ended up in our own, smaller balloon basket for just the three of us. Apparently, this is just how it works out sometimes and had been pre-assigned. The five of us drove about 15 minutes from the offices to some open land on the northern fringes of Phoenix, where Jessie and Ryan set about offloading and inflating the balloon. We were encouraged to assist and were happy to be involved. Pretty much on time, just as the sun started to peak over the top of the nearby mountains, the balloon was ready to fly.
We climbed in and were soon untethered and gaining altitude. The views were simply spectacular. The colours of the surroundings in the morning sun were beautiful and the perspective that the balloon afforded really reinforced our love of this part of Arizona. We flew for a little over an hour, as Jessie expertly changed altitude to utilise the different wind directions to plot his course. We came back down to earth with the gentlest of landings to meet the awaiting Ryan.
The balloon was rapidly packed up and loaded onto the truck and we were returned to the offices for a champagne breakfast. This flight was something that we had wanted to do for some time, and there was no element that could be improved on. Thank you to the whole Rainbow Ryder's team, but specifically Jessie and Ryan, for making our flight so memorable.
Réponse de l'hôte
Nov 2017
We will be sure to inform Jesse and Ryan of your pleasant experience over the Arizona desert! The colors of the sunrise truly are spectacular, especially when viewing them from that high above the ground.
Thank you for choosing to fly with us. If you're ever traveling through again, look us up and we would love to take you in the sky. Continue exploring new heights!