How a Hot Air Balloon Can Help Conquer Your Fear of Heights

Have you ever battled nervousness when it comes to heights? You might even be flat-out afraid of high places, just like me. And I'm here to tell you that by facing your fears, you can conquer them.

== Travel Tips == Paris hot air balloon... At almost 1,000 feet high, the Eiffel Tower is an impressive sight; it's visible throughout most of the city but the views from the top of this huge steel structure are even more impressive. You can be assured of an even more beautiful sight if you visit in the evening when it is illuminated; taking a tour at the same time will teach you much more about this remarkable structure.

I'm not suggesting anything crazy (or outright suicidal!) like skydiving or rock climbing. Or even roller coasters. I'm talking about hot air balloons. A hot air balloon ride can be an easy and gentle way to ease away your fear of heights.

Depending on the size of the balloon and it's passenger basket, hot air balloons can hold up to six people or more. But, would the basket break? It won't -- although it's crafted from wicker, it's extremely flexible, tested by experts and even designed to absorb impact at landing so you don't feel a jolt. The nylon balloon is fire-proof and extremely durable.

Before being allowed to take passengers up, the pilots of hot air balloons have to undergo extensive traning and be certified . Weather conditions are analyzed carefully and every aspect of all equipment is checked before every flight to ensure maximum safety.

Once you're up in the air, you will also be supported by a ground crew who will follow the balloon and meet it on the ground when it lands. Ballooning is not a precise thing -- you will often land somewhere you may not have expected. But never fear, that's part of the fun...your pilot and his or her crew know exactly how to handle things!

By taking a hot air balloon ride with your family or people whom you trust, you can successfully conquer your fear of heights. While in the air, you may feel uncomfortable or even nervous. The important thing is to stay calm and in control. Relax as much as you can, and remember to breathe deeply. And after awhile, you'll realize that you're not as afraid of heights as you used to be! Upon a successful landing, you may even want to do it again!

Reward yourself or shout "Yee-haw!" after a successful hot air balloon ride. Some crews, depending on the package you choose, can meet you at the landing area with a picnic and champagne. Spend some time exploring the area where the balloon landed -- sightseeing is part of the trip!

== Travel Tips == Air fare idea... A well-known source for airfare deals is on the internet. Travelers should be wary however, of sites specializing in the sale of airline tickets at a discount. These may be genuinely legitimate enterprises, but it is better to book with more well-known discount agents. Most often the problem with these sites has to do with not being able to verify their legitimacy. Never rely on email contact as an indicator of someone's knowledge of the airline industry, visit the office if you can, if that's not possible, telephone to ascertain the agent's knowledge. Query with as many questions as you can, to learn of any likely snags related to their ticket deals, such as stopovers in unattractive parts of the world. It is also important to make sure you know exactly which airline you are flying with.

I guarantee that when you return home, you'll feel refreshed and confident, and significantly less afraid of heights than you were before you took a hot air balloon ride. Facing your fears is a good way to send them packing!

Copyright 2006 Lawrence J. - All Rights Reserved

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