One Day Monday – Paragliding

In a recent discussion with a friend, we were toying with the idea of visiting Geneva, Switzerland, and she asked me if I ski. Unfortunately, I don’t, but I’d like to learn. She then prompted the question of what I would do during the day if she were to spend some quality time on the slopes. At the time, I didn’t have an answer, but after further research, I decided I would go hiking and PARAGLIDING!

I mean, look at the photo above, and tell me that doesn’t look like fun!

Paragliding (soaring over land) and parasailing (sailing above water), though very similar to skydiving don’t seem like they would be as nauseating as, let’s say, bungee jumping where you’re barely strapped in by a cord. I imagine the threshold of fear is much lower as well, and there’s an incredible backdrop included into the price.

There are three things I recently learned about paragliding:

1. It is both a recreational and competitive adventure sport
2. Flights can last 2 hours or more
3. Because the parachute is portable, you can virtually paraglide from any suitable take-off spot granted you have enough wide open space to soar

I love the idea of paragliding as it is one of many activities that gives the sensation of flying through the air without being on a plane, and though I’ll never aspire to be a competitive paraglider because it sounds like the most boring race ever, I’m sure it’s a blast for the contenders.

With the scenery, accessibility, and duration of flight, it seems like paragliding can cost a chunk of change to put your life on the line, but it is an experience well worth saving for.

My top 5 picks for paragliding or parasailing:

1. Maui, Hawaii (talk about an ocean view)
2. Geneva or Interlaken, Switzerland
3. Queensland, Australia
4. Barcelona, Spain (fly through the Pyrenees)
5. Lima, Peru

Ideal Location: Penang, Malaysia
Projected Price: $200 USD
Actual Price: $20 USD
Date Completed: October 13, 2012

Every Monday, I will reveal one thing on my bucket list that I hope to accomplish one day (get it?), and hopefully, you’ll feel inspired to share one item on yours. Let’s share dreams and encourage each other to cross one off as frequently as possible.