Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Ride: Is It Worth It? A Review
Thinking of seeing the Gold Coast from a totally fresh angle? So, picture this: You are drifting over the landscape in a hot air balloon, the air is still very crisp, the sun is starting to peak over the horizon. And all of that, of course, topped off with a tasty breakfast and some bubbly. Seems kinda amazing, does it not? Well, let’s get into whether this famous experience is genuinely worth the price.
Up, Up, and Away: What the Hot Air Balloon Ride Is Like
First off, expect a super early start. Really, you will probably be up before the birds. Usually, the pickup time can be super early, depending on where your staying at, and this is just, like, for the weather conditions; to catch the sunrise at its best. The ride out to the launch site is pretty fun itself, you know, you can check out the Gold Coast hinterland while it’s still kinda dark.
As for the ballooning, it is almost always amazing. The feeling of floating gently above everything is actually very serene, that it’s, like, something else. The views stretch for miles and miles, apparently including the cityscape, the ocean, and the green hinterland. It’s virtually a photographer’s dream. Usually, the balloon ride itself lasts about an hour, it feels too brief, to be honest.
The Breakfast and Bubbly Experience
Once you’re back on solid ground, apparently, the experience doesn’t stop there. Pretty much every package will usually include a breakfast at a local restaurant or even at the ballooning site itself. It tends to be a buffet-style spread, offering both cold and warm choices. Also, they very offer, alongside the usual coffees and juices, a glass of bubbly to celebrate the flight. That’s a pretty nice touch, in a way!
Things to Consider Before You Book
Weather is really something important on this adventure. Ballooning, of course, it’s rather dependent on the conditions, and flights do get canceled if it’s either too windy or if it’s raining. The balloon companies usually offer you, like, a reschedule or even a refund, but, it’s something you just gotta keep in your head, is that it’s not a 100% certainty it will happen on the day you booked.
The pricing varies quite a bit, too, seemingly depending on which company you decide on and what’s all included. You should also see, you know, what the cancellation policy actually is. Is that, some companies maybe charge a fee if you cancel within a timeframe.
Finally, really give some thinking to if you kinda get seasick, or rather, airsick. Many individuals do not understand how they may well act in a hot air balloon. So keep it very conservative. Don’t go very big.
What Makes This Adventure Special
What kinda sets this hot air balloon ride apart, really, is that the views you get are absolutely unparalleled. So, it is not only just seeing the coastline but checking out the interior, too, you know. You could be surprised at how breathtaking Queensland is from above.
As a matter of fact, many of the companies try very hard to help with being as environment-friendly as they are able, yet they are investing in ways that reduce the effect on the planet.
Then there’s the feeling of the flight itself. You usually just can’t beat floating along at dawn, more or less in total calm. It is so a brilliant experience and a fantastic way of seeing the sun peak out.
Recommendations
- Book in Advance: Hot air balloon rides are so pretty popular, especially during the peak season, that booking early is really a smart thing to do.
- Dress Comfortably: Think in terms of layers, so, you could regulate your temp easier when the ride is in process.
- Bring a Camera: Just do not skip bringing anything to catch all the beautiful shots that is going to be happening for a day to remember.
- Check the Weather: Confirm you get recent updates just so you get informed when some things does happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the hot air balloon ride safe?
Actually, it is. These flights are pretty tightly regulated, with seasoned pilots, and you get some security instructions prior to departure.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour operator tends to reschedule or give you some refund choices, but do review the conditions when you book.
What should I bring with me?
Bring the camera and even glasses. Dress is better by using levels since conditions do get warmer if the day improves. A sun hat is also wise to get away from direct sunshine.