All About Hot Air Balloons

Floating seemingly effortlessly high above the earth... Observing the world beneath in all its beauty and wonder... Feeling a cool, refreshing breeze as you waft by. Leaving all of life's worries and problems behind as you spend the most fabulous morning or evening of your life... What is this wondrous vehicle that can make a couple have the most romantic time of their lives? It's a hot air balloon, of course. The balloon is painted with magnificent colors of red, blue, and green. The basket is comfortable and the experience is glorious. No matter what terrain you are flying over, the experience is a once in a lifetime one. You and nature seem one as you glide over the world. If you think a hot air balloon ride with your favorite person is simply unattainable, think again. Hot air ballooning is becoming more and more prevalent all over the world. It's just waiting for you to take the ride of your life.

A hot air balloon contains basically three components: the burner, the envelope, and the basket. Let's examine these three components and how they work:

The burner uses propane gas to fill up the balloon with hot air. A thin metal tube carries gas to the pilot light, while a thick one sends the gas to a high pressure valve. The pilot then uses this valve to control the flame. The flame causes hot air to shoot up into the envelope of the balloon and keep it aloft.

The envelope is just another name for the balloon-shaped part that contains the hot air. Made of nylon, it is designed to withstand very high temperatures. Envelopes can be various colors, sizes and designs. Some companies use envelopes for some very slick advertising advertising campaigns.

The basket is the component dangling beneath the envelope. It carries the passengers. It is normally made from wicker, a flexible yet strong material commonly used for outdoor furniture. Baskets can carry up to six people depending on their size.

TIP: One really good way to get an up-close look at hot air ballooning is to attend a hot air balloon festival in your area or region. Even rural areas like to show-off their hot air balloons and pilots. Local newspapers usually carry an announcement about upcoming fests. Likewise, local TV stations will mention them on their websites. You can also use your favorite search engines to look for hot air balloon clubs and organizations in your immediate vicinity.

The first known hot air balloon was manufactured in 1783 by the Montgolfier brothers of Annonay, France. The first hot air balloon passengers were a chicken, duck and sheep. When the animals survived the trip, the Montgolfier brothers knew that people could ride safely as well. Two months later, the first two people took their maiden voyage on a Montgolfier hot air balloon, and the rest is history!

If you decide to take a hot air balloon ride, it's good to be prepared. You'll probably either be going at dawn, or right before dusk. This is due to the wind being at its most favorable (calm) during these times. Dress comfortably in light layered fabrics like cotton. You may also need a hat and sunglasses, or even a light jacket depending on the season.

Most rides usually last from one to three hours. There will be what's called a chase crew on the ground following the balloon. They'll meet the balloon upon its landing to collect equipment and passengers.

If you're good with your camera, you can capture the majesty you see from high above the earth in the hot air balloon. Because no one's ever absolutely sure where they'll land in a hot air balloon, an adventurous sightseeing trip after the ride is always a fun idea!

If you've never been on a hot air balloon ride, you're in for a treat! Hot air balloon rides are extremely smooth and gentle, perfect for people who aren't that comfortable with heights. These days, hot air balloon pilots must be certified and all equipment is examined thoroughly before passengers are ever taken up. That makes hot air ballooning a safe and fun activity for you and your friends or family!

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