Each of the companies that we have talked to for Hot air balloon rides have said you pay for it in advance, then if there is bad weather, you don’t get your money back. You just have to reschedule for another day. We have a friend who had to make many many many trips an hour and a half each way and each time on the way there, they would get a call to say sorry it’s too windy or some other item. It took a long time before they actually got there actual ride.
So what I’m wondering is, is there any company out there that actually just gives a refund if you can’t take the ride because of inclement weather.? This is in the United States.
If you aren’t ready to lose the money no matter what, perhaps it’s not the best way to spend your money. Hot air baloons are like boats, they’re for people who need a way to lose money when they have too much.
That still doesn’t make any fairer. OP expects a service for their money. If there happens to be bad weather, it’s not right for the company “sorry, too windy, come again another time with more money”.
Also don’t gatekeep balloon rides, it’s not like you’re renting a private jet.
Not more money…just come back when weather permits flying a hot air balloon…
He doesn’t have to pay for another flight? Thought it was like water parks where your money just goes into the ether if it rains.
The comment of not getting money back but being allowed to reschedule to me implies they can reschedule and no additional money needs to be paid. If you cancel, you lose your money.
I could be wrong, but typically when a company tells me I can reschedule, I don’t need to pay again. Nothing is cancelled, just postponed.
Oh wow, I missed that sentence. Makes sense now, nevermind!
Actually that is the problem to me.
If I make an appointment for something (hot air balloon ride) then on the appointed day they call and say sorry to high of wind. I understand there is danger. So I can see them rescheduling. But if it happens again. Then to me give me the option of a refund.
Don’t make me drive an hour and a half one way, then after I’m half way there, cancel. And expect me to be happy if that happens several times.
BTW I’m not upset with you. Annoyed with companies that think this sort of a business model is ok.
But from other commentors it seems to not just be that way in my state but everywhere. My mom has never had a hot air balloon ride and she doesn’t have many years left. Guess she may never get one.
Oh absolutely, still in agreement with you. I just thought they were outright stealing your money. Time is still valuable. I don’t think a balloon ride might be a guarantee though, just the nature of it. Hope you guys find a way!
He’s asking about a hot air balloon ride with a company. He’s not asking about owning a hot air balloon.
I know, my response remains unchanged.
According to Google a hot air balloon costs $150-250. I’m not sure where you live, but in the US that seems completely reasonable to do for a unique experience.