I chose this company after researching reviews and since there was a package that included the balloon flight through South Coast Winery, where we were staying, pick/up included, it was a no brainier to go with California Dreamin. This company was highly rated and now I understand why.
Pick up was right on time at 5:05 am by Mark who shared with us some background info on the company to help reassure new passengers (my husband and I) we were in good hands. He drove us to Vindemia and told us the winery's owner will likely pilot our balloon. The pilot, Dave (I think) has been piloting for about 30 years.
It was still dark and it set a nice mood for the experience - they had outdoor lighting that made the scenery more romantic in a seating area. I loved the ambiance.
After signing in, we jumped into a 16 passenger van, and the pilot and crew scouted a location for takeoff.
Dawn was breaking and they quickly setup the balloon for flight. Next thing we knew, we were ready to board along with 11 passengers total, not including the pilot. We didn't need sweaters, it was fairly warm that Saturday summer morning. It got warmer as the sun broke through. Never hot. My husband is 6' 2" and he was just fine without a hat.
The ride was very smooth. We were low altitude most of the time hovering over orchards and vineyards. It was beautiful to watch the sun ride over Temecula. Flight lasted about an hour or so. Was only wishing we would go higher for a longer period of time.
Landing was decent. It was fun, a little bumpy as expected and adventurous as they picked a spot behind private property. The pilot was friendly with the neighboring homes and wineries.
Mark, our driver, was also part of the crew. He took a lot of great photos and made sure we had good shots with the sign "happy anniversary" to commemorate the occasion.
After the flight, they served a light continental breakfast with mimosa. Array of fresh fruits, crackers, bread, coffee. The outdoor seating was very romantic with a gorgeous backdrop of Vindemia's boutique winery. They passed out coupons for wine tasting at Vindemia.
Mark, a retired military man, took us back to South Coast Winery on our terms. No pressure to rush back. It was an excellent experience and I highly recommend this company for its customer service, safe flight, friendly staff and overall seamless, memorable experience.