Ballon de Paris (the Ballon Generali)

Since I had already visited all the must-see places in Paris and still had some time, I decided to explore something unusual, something memorable to make my friends jealous (they were already jealous because I saw the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. However, I wanted to enhance their feeling). After walking around for a while, I found an interesting attraction, a tethered helium balloon installed at André-Citroën Park, on top of which I enjoyed the views of Paris.

To tell the truth, to travel in a balloon has always been my dream. That is why I decided to try it. As I mentioned, the balloon is located at the Citroën Park, far away from the center of the city, but easily reachable by subway. It takes about 15 minutes to reach it. Plus, there are signs everywhere. You will not get lost!

The balloon is indeed big, actually the biggest in France! The basket of the balloon is round, so you can watch the landscape from every side of it. However, I presume that the north-east area is the best.

In a balloon ride usually travel up to 10 people. For this reason, I suggest going to the Park early. I myself got there at 10 o'clock and there were 6 people. You can also book a private balloon, but that will cost you around €300.

It takes about 3 minutes to reach 700 meters. The ride lasts around 10 minutes. Don't worry to fly off; the balloon is tethered to the ground. On top of it, you can admire a magic view of the Eiffel Tower, which is within walking distance from the Citroën Park, the Citroën automobile manufacturing plant and, of course, all districts of Paris, with its beautiful architecture.

You can also look down onthe congested streets of Paris and glimpse small cars in a variety of colors: green, yellow, red... This aerial view indicates how difficult it is to move around Paris in real-time.

Now I will give you some tips you should remember before taking a balloon ride:

• My strong suggestion is to call the Park in advance because they do not offer balloon rides when it is too windy or too foggy. You can ask them any questions you may have. For further details, you can visit the company's website. Surprisingly, workers speak good English.
• If you have a fear of heights, don't go on a balloon ride. Although the balloon is absolutely safe, even at a significant height, you may still feel a bit scared.
• It is cold up there, so make sure to take a warm hat and a pair of gloves.
• And finally, the most important thing: don't forget your camera!

The price is €6 for children and €12 for adults. Adults can usually buy vouchers near the entrance and save €1.

All in all, it is an absolutely romantic experience and might be an interesting surprise for your friends. Don't miss it!