How to Prepare for Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai
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Dubai is mostly known for its tall buildings and shopping malls, but the desert side of the city has some experiences that people remember for long time. Hot air balloon ride is one of them, and since majority of the visitors are first timers, how to prepare for it is a very common question that they usually ask before booking.
1. Be Ready for an Early Morning
Now the first thing you should know is that balloon flights in Dubai starts very early. Most of the operators pick you up from your hotel between 4 AM and 5 AM, because the balloon needs to be in the air before sunrise when the wind is calm. The drive to the launch site near Margham or Al Awir takes around one hour, so my suggestion is to sleep early the night before.
2. Wear Comfortable Clothes in Layers
When its about clothing, the desert in winter mornings is cold and then it gets warm once the sun comes out. So a t-shirt with a light jacket on top does the job. Closed shoes are important also because you will walk on sand during the take off and landing. A cap is better than a big hat.
3. Check the Price and What Is Included
A shared basket flight normally costs around AED 900 to AED 1,300 per person, and private flights cost more. Most packages include hotel transfer, breakfast at the desert camp and a flight certificate, and some operators add falconry show also. Better to read the inclusions properly before paying. October to April is the best season.
4. Know the Basic Rules
Pregnant women are usually not allowed on the flight, and most operators don't accept kids below 5 years. Some companies also have a weight limit, so suppose you are not sure then it is better to ask at the time of booking instead of at the launch site. Since flights can be cancelled due to strong wind or fog, check the cancellation policy also and try not to book it on your last day in Dubai.
5. Follow the Pilot During the Flight
Before take off the pilot gives a short safety briefing, and the landing position is the main thing to remember (knees little bent and holding the rope handles). The flight goes around one hour and it is very smooth, so even people who are scared of height feels comfortable after few minutes. Keep a strap on your phone also.
So with little planning your first balloon ride becomes a relaxed experience. For hot air balloon packages with hotel pickup, you can check HotAirBallooninDubai.com.
