(ARA) - Throughout history, movies and literature, romance and adventure go hand in hand. The gift of adventure might just be the right fit for a hard-to-buy-for sweetheart this Valentine's Day.
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 romance 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
http://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.
Dance lessons
From your local Arthur Murray studio to TV shows like "Dancing with the Stars," Americans' love affair with dancing has taken on a new life. It's possible to find reasonably priced lessons for virtually every style of dance from the classic waltz to salsa. Dancing is great exercise, so dance lessons can also help improve the recipient's health. Turn the experience into a real adventure by signing up together and entering a competition once you have a few lessons under your belt.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
