A hot air balloon ride has been a dream of mine for years, but I didn't think my husband would ever agree to join me. For our 30th anniversary, he suggested we try it out. We decided to splurge on the private balloon ride for two and after reading the reviews, we chose California Dreamin'.
We started out early with Joe picking us up at our hotel to take us to Vindemia winery. He was friendly and informative and by the way, I hope you did well on your private balloon pilot license exam, Joe!
At the winery we were introduced to our pilot, Josh, and away we all went with Joe to find a good launch spot. We coordinated with the big group and their pilot to find a good spot and we had chosen a challenging day for winds.
Everyone assured my husband that his fear of heights wouldn't be a problem. Just look at the horizon! They were right. He enjoyed the trip as much as I did. It was truly a beautiful experience, floating through the air! Josh communicated with the other pilot and with Joe on the ground, while always telling us what he was doing and why. He pointed out points of interest and patiently answered our questions.
We felt completely safe the entire trip and at the end he showed us the stats, which his phone had tracked, of our trajectory, elevation and time in the air. He was not only a pilot, but a superb tour guide.
The team worked very well together to launch both balloons and again on our descent, like a well oiled machine.
I had my camera and my phone for photos, but that's all you need. You won't need a purse.
Dress warmly for the early morning sunrise flights, as it's very chilly before the sun comes up. I felt warmer in the air than on the ground. They gave us blankets for the time we were waiting in the cold to get launched.
Wear shoes that are comfortable to stand in for at least an hour!
We were given champagne while the crew packed up the equipment, and again at the champagne breakfast at the winery.
For an anniversary gift we were given a bottle of lovely red wine that was made by one of the pilots who is also a winemaker. I thought that was a nice touch!
I highly recommend California Dreamin' Balloon Adventures and the Temecula sunrise flight!