We’d heard about Vang Vieng being one of the cheapest spots in the world to go on a hot air balloon ride. And my enthusiasm was further increased when I found out they did afternoon tours, as well as the early morning ones.

From the roof of our accommodation we could see many balloons glide past each evening – along with the rather loud para-motors (a powered para-glider).

I managed to convince the kids, but not M, that we should give it a go and we booked into a reputable company.

The kids were not impressed with our balloon name but I was amused 🙂 We watched the balloons get heated up, while the staff kept a close eye on the weather in case the flight would need to be cancelled.

We got a safety briefing, which included how to brace in case of an emergency landing. The balloon’s pilot has the final say over safety. They explained that even though there are a few balloons taking off from the same field at the same time, each has its own conditions to deal with so even if the balloons are close by, they will still be in different weather / wind and so it’s up to the pilot to make their own decisions.

Then it was time to get in, eight passengers per basket in two separate sections with a pilot in their own section. There’s not much room to move in the basket and I was closest to the pilot, which mean I jumped each time the burner was turned on. It’s quite loud, especially in comparison to the silent gliding on the balloon.

Up we floated, in gentle competition with a fellow company balloon. (Of course, we won!)

We did sneak a peek over the edge of the basket to see tiny buffalo and broccoli trees. Even Esti was getting into it! (but not see keen to look down!)

We got up to about 3000 feet and had some amazing views. It was a very peaceful and smooth motion, you barely even notice that you are moving.

Our landing was quite boring as well – which is probably a good thing 🙂

Vang Vieng is not the party place it used to be – between this serene ride and the yoga it was a very different experience this time round.