Buying a gift doesn’t have to be limited to something you get from a shop, wrap up in tissue paper and hope for the best. Thanks to the internet you can move away from conventional presents and browse some unusual and fun days out that should surprise and delight the recipient. They may not be as cheap, but it’s worth it, as the great quality of the present is sure to be remembered.
A Hot Air Balloon Ride may not seem the obvious choice, but it’s certainly one that will give them a day to remember and enjoy. Cruising over the skies at 2000 ft will be an awesome way to see the county of their choice and could be the closest they’ll ever get to seeing the morning sun-rise. The check-in time is at dawn where they can help muck in with getting the balloon ready before setting off. The spectacular journey should last three-and-a-half hours, and can cover Hertfordshire, Essex and Somerset as well as many other destinations. You can buy the present for one, or if you’re feeling generous you could buy a couple’s ticket and hop on yourself. Check out Asda’s website for Hot Air Balloon Rides, from a standard package to the rather more romantic and exclusive champagne balloon flight for two.
If you think the recipient might enjoy something a little more whirlwind then how about a private flying lesson. This should be perfect for a boyfriend or girlfriend who likes to try new things and has a love for the rush of adrenalin. The day begins with a brief on how the aircraft flies, and of course, how to fly it. After the lesson they’ll get to sit in the captain’s seat, with the instructor beside them and for 30 minutes, jet over the destination of their choice, which includes Cornwall, Liverpool and Kent and some stunning views from each. Booking is subject to availability, so to get a lesson nearest to your town, book in advance. Lastly, and for another present that puts your friend behind the wheel, how about a Rally Driving Experience. Top Gear fans will delight in this one. The full day out allows the driver to do everything they dream of doing on the road but aren’t allowed to. They’ll be practising handbrake turns, skid control, power slides, and gear control. They’ll begin the day with an introduction by the instructor, before getting into the driving seat for 8 hours of extreme-sporting fun. It’s got to be a great way of letting off steam and a gift that really breaks the mould.
These gifts make good one-off presents and should really impress the recipient. However if you wanted to give something a little smaller or add a token to your offer of birthday gifts then check out Not on the High Street. They do a few select items to complement any present. Or a few blooms might go down well...as you hav a browse online, click on Interflora's website for various bouquets of flowers that should add a little traditional floral magic to your hot air balloon gift.