A Dawn of Balloons: My Cappadocia Journey

​Today, as I reflect on my recent travels, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude. I have been blessed with the opportunity to experience the mesmerizing spectacle of hot air balloons rising over the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia. Let me share with you the remarkable details of this adventure that still warms my heart and awakens my spirit.

I remember, I initially balked at the exorbitant prices for a hot air balloon ride. Having experienced this thrill on previous occasions, like in the ancient city of Bagan, Myanmar, and the monumental Valley of the Kings in Egypt, I decided to seek an alternative perspective of this captivating spectacle in Cappadocia.

Instead of soaring in the skies, I chose to be a spectator from the valley, to catch a glimpse of the hot air balloons as they gracefully launched and hovered over the jagged landscape. The tour guide I was with couldn't arrange a morning trip. Undeterred, I decided to take matters into my own hands. It was 10 pm at night, a time when most would be winding down. But there I was, making a few contacts, reaching out to independent tour operators. With a bit of bargaining, I secured a good deal.

I found myself waking up at 3:30 am. It was a daunting task, but the anticipation of the spectacle that awaited me kept my spirits high. As Kahlil Gibran once said, "You work that you may keep pace with the earth and the soul of the earth." And in those early hours, it felt like I was working to keep pace with the sun, racing to greet the dawn before it could escape me​​.

The reward for my efforts was beyond spectacular. We managed to reach the perfect vantage point just in time. As the first light of day broke over the horizon, the hot air balloons began to rise, painting the morning skies with their vibrant hues. They dotted the dawn, like myriad floating lanterns, their warm glow juxtaposed against the cool blue of the breaking day. It was a sight to behold, a magical dance that filled the sky and stirred the soul.

The adventure I embarked upon that day was a testament to my unwavering determination. It was a reaffirmation of my belief in the joy of journeying and the beauty of staying grounded, both literally and figuratively. As I continue on my path, I am filled with gratitude for these experiences that enrich my life and feed my soul.

This experience has reminded me once again that sometimes, the most memorable moments come not from the most expensive or luxurious experiences, but from the simple decision to see things from a different perspective. Just like the serpentine shadow on the side of El Castillo at Chichen Itza during the equinoxes, the true magic of life often lies in the unexpected​.

To all who walk this journey with me, I wish you the courage to embrace new perspectives, the strength to overcome challenges, and the joy of discovery in every moment. Happy travels!