It’s not just a gift … it’s an adventure

It’s not just a gift … it’s an adventure
(ARA) – From Scrooge’s ghost-guided time traveling to a trip to the North Pole aboard an imaginary express train, the holidays and adventure go hand in hand. And the gift of an adventure may be just the right fit for that hard-to-buy-for someone on your holiday list this year.

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend big bucks or send your loved ones to some exotic land to give them a memorable adventure gift. A little creativity and a modest investment of time and money can net an experience they’ll talk about for years to come.

Here are a few ideas for adventure gifts that will thrill the recipient while keeping you within your budget:

A hot air balloon ride

Few experiences blend adventure and excitement with the soul-soothing feeling of a hot air balloon ride. The tranquility and silence found high above the treetops balances the thrill of being airborne and soaring. You can give an hour-long ascent through Soaring Adventures. Each ascent rises to between 500 to 1,000 feet, covering 5 to 10 miles. A celebration of champagne or fruit juice upon landing concludes each adventure, led by a commercially certified, FAA-trained pilot. Balloon gondolas can hold up to six passengers. Rides are available at 200 locations nationwide. Visit www.800soaring.com or call (800) SOARING (800-762-7464) to learn more.

Not-so-deep sea diving

Scuba diving is an adventure sure to please virtually any nature lover. Diving schools in your area can be easily found with a quick Internet search. Certification opens up a world of adventure opportunities to gift recipients of all ages, who will be able to use their new-found skill in a variety of venues. For example, some local aquariums will allow certified divers to dive in the tanks and hand-feed fish. Check with your local aquarium to find out if they have a program.

Fantasy in a league of its own

Whether it’s a professional tennis camp or a baseball camp sponsored by your community college, there are a host of ways to give a sports adventure to the fan on your list. A camp not only allows a gift recipient to improve his or her skills at a much-loved sport, professional camps offer the opportunity to meet and interact with admired sports legends. An online search will quickly reveal the sporting adventure of choice for the sports fan on your list.

Let’s go on a safari

Most community zoos now offer behind-the-scenes adventures for zoo fans of all ages. Programs for children often include educational experiences and hands-on interaction with some of the zoo’s more kid-friendly residents. Adult programs enhance a behind-the-scenes experience with such grown-up adventures as gourmet dinners, spa experiences and even wine tastings. Check with your local zoo to find out what they offer.

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