it’s raining or windy. In the summer, of course, take-offs are much more frequent. But I was there in October and, during those four days, the balloons flew on just one morning. Tem- peratures in Cappadocia during October nights drop below ten degrees and it’s essential to dress for the cold. We shivered from the au- tumn chill until we boarded the balloon. I had never flown in such a way before and I thought they’d all be ready and waiting for us. However, that wasn’t the case. When we ar- rived, in the middle of nowhere, we were await- ed by separated balloon baskets. A gigantic bal- loon was lying on the ground, while five people filled it with gas. After 20 minutes, everything was ready to take to the skies. The take-off was calm and pleasant. At one point I noticed that fewer people were stand- ing next to the balloon basket. In order for the balloon to fly, it is necessary for the pilot to add gas from time to time to keep us airborne. The loud noise of the gas being released can give you a fright, but it also warms you up and makes the flight even more pleasant. The flight included 28 people of different nationalities. Over 50 balloons flew that day. While you look at pictures on Instagram, ballooning appears unreal, some would even suggest it could be Photoshopped. It’s not, and - believe it or not - it’s even better in per- son. It’s the kind of experience that gives you goosebumps and prompts you to pinch your- self to check you’re not dreaming. You fanta- sise about it, keeping a picture of balloons fly- ing over Cappadocia on the background of your phone, and the next thing you know it’s hap- pening right in front of you, and you’ve become part of the magic. As I overcome my fear of heights and feel strong emotions at having realised another of my dreams, we slowly ascend to heights from where you can observe the magical Cappadocia. Fascinating stone structures, unusual rock for- mations made of white volcanic ash and natu- ral landscapes enchant me instantly. My hair stands on end as I impatiently await the sun- rise and enjoy the silence. I feel security, beau- ty and broad spaciousness. The sun rises gen- tly and slowly as we slide through the air above Cappadocia. Photographs cannot evoke the magnificence and beauty of this experience, which smash- es fears, raises one to the heavens and soothes. Ballooning in Cappadocia left me with fantas- tic, everlasting memories. What an unforgetta- ble trip!
Kapadokija predstavlja najpopularniju lokaciju na svetu za letenje balonom. Prošle godine uzletelo je gotovo pola represents the world’s most popular ballooning location. Almost half a million people took to the skies here last year miliona ljudi Cappadocia
Cappadocia » Kapadokija | 97
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