Turkey – Cappadocia Day 2: The balloon ride

We were up early (too early for those who still had a little jet-lag) the next morning. A driver picked us up to take us to Goreme for a dawn-breaking balloon ride over the Cappadocia region.
There were over fifty balloons going up that morning. Obviously, it’s a very popular attraction. The balloons began to slowly but beautifully light up in the darkness. We lifted off the ground and slowly ascended to a height of five thousand feet. It was such a fabulous way to begin the day. The views were incredible. I don’t think anyone can truly appreciate the complexity of the landscaping in Cappadocia until they get above it. We marveled at the many fairy chimneys and such uniquely diverse topography. Here are a few pictures to speak for themselves.


Back in the basket, back to the more realistic part…our group was made up mostly of people from Spain. Fortunately our balloon pilot spoke Spanish. Unfortunately, we were the only English speaking passengers. The pilot was very kind to frequently tell us what he was telling everyone else. I don’t think it mattered much as we were all captivated with the ride, the scenery, and how well the pilot navigated the balloon down low into the valleys and then back up along the cliffs. We were not to hold Abby as this posed a dangerous risk. There were little peepholes through which she could look out. We’re still not sure if it was the motion, the jet-lag, or the near liter of water she downed before the ride, but she began to vomit. Of course I’m concerned about her as she very rarely gets sick, but I have to confess I was more worried about what the balloon pilot and other passengers would be saying. Luckily we had a few things working for us. One, we were in our own section of the basket so it was only on our feet. Two, there were slight openings in the bottom of the balloon basket so when we tipped just the right way, the vomit would run out. (Fortunately we were not flying over houses or any inhabited area in which people would get doused.) Third, between the Spanish chatter and the whooshing of the balloon flames, I don’t think anyone heard the gagging sounds. Of course, for all I know, the Spanish chatter could have been, “That’s so disgusting!” “Boy I’m glad I’m not in their basket section.” “Why would someone bring a sick child on a balloon ride?” “Oooo! What is that smell?” Well, thankfully that was all she needed and she was back to normal.
Our landing party greeted our balloon after a memorable hour-long balloon ride with the traditional champagne toast. Our pilot explained the historical significance of the toast. Kindly, they also brought really good orange juice for the non-drinkers. All the way around, it was a truly wonderful experience…a first for all of these Listers.