Wine. When I think of Napa Valley, I think of wine just like all of you do. Most people who have visited the area have been wine tasting at one of the countless wineries.

Last weekend I went to Napa for a completely different experience. I woke up at 4:30 a.m. and drove out to Napa Valley so that I could be at the launch site of a hot air balloon by 6:30 (being on-time is very important). It was breathtaking.

I had seen deals on Groupon for $179 for a one hour ride and they came with a “champagne celebration.” After I did more research, I found out that this price didn’t include a $35 transportation fee. I ended up booking my balloon tour with Napa Valley Drifters for $215 because their availability matched mine. To help save you on your research you should expect to pay $185-$225 for an hour on the balloon.

There were so many feelings during that one hour in the sky. First, there’s a little bit of fear as you climb hundreds and then thousands of feet in the air. The fear turns into peaceful happiness as you experience incredible views in every direction. Actually, it’s a lot less scary than you would think because you are detached from the ground. Also, the basket is very sturdy since you are moving with the wind. Our pilot, Mark, said that he has only had one customer in 37 years of flying ever ask to land early. Yes, fear turns into enjoyment and then excitement as your ride continues.

When the ride was over I felt like I had a new appreciated for Napa and it’s beauty,
I felt a sense of appreciation for the experience I just had, and I felt a desire to try something else I have never done before!

Check back next week for another adventure!