One of the perks of our job and heading to special events anywhere in the Luzon region whenever we put up a food booth. Last February 12, 2017, we traveled at 3 o'clock in the morning from Manila to Clark, Pampanga to witness the final flight of "Hot Air Balloon" in the area. Clark Pampanga is 80 km away from Manila. You can drive it for one to two hours at the fastest rate.
It was my first time to go to this event so I prepared myself to wear something that can keep me off dust and something that can keep me off the heat if ever the sun goes up. So I wore a long sleeve cardigan over a sheer sleeveless top with sheer black leggings and rubber shoes. I got the attire correct! We were also prepared to have our own handkerchiefs but at the later part, it is advisable to bring a face mask cause you'd be wearing it for the whole duration.
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| With my team mates from San Mig Food Ave Marketing |
We arrived there at an early time of 5:30 am and the traffic is absurd! We did not expect that many spectators would be coming. Parking was also difficult that our van just have to drop us off and our driver would park back on the Petron station. Our parking was only free because my work is related with Petron. During the time, the street island was allocated for customers parking. But since it was easily filled, some people had to park very far.
At 5:30am, it was already an exciting sight of big balloons with half of its air filled. Lots of people were already swarming close. It was still a lovely scenery even if you are not close to the balloons (Warning: It is actually better if you stay away from the balloons in case their setup malfunctions. Previous event news have shown that at some time, the balloons get fired or some have flown or landed incorrectly and got itself on fire)
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| A balloon at Clark Pampanga designed with a happy clown face at one side, and a sad face at the opposite side. |
There were around 15 Hot Air Balloons set up but sadly not all of the balloons were able to fly. Some were intentionally just air filled to stay on land and some really had technical problems. The Hot Air Balloons were driven by very experienced pilots. Most of them were non-Filipinos and have traveled to the Philippines just for this event. The balloons were also on a racing contest. So if you want to follow its landing, then better get yourself a car and drive fast to the final destination! A spectator can also step inside the balloon and have their picture taken for a price. Tickets to actually experience a real flight ride in a Hot Air Balloon can be purchased online at US$350. Visit the
Philippine Balloon Fest website for more information.
After the balloons have flown in the air, spectators can also enjoy the booths situated around the area. There are food booths with meals ranging from 70-250 pesos. And also clothes and items on bargain. Some sponsors were also giving out free stuff. We stopped by Serenity for milk tea because we were so thirsty! They offered their trailer balcony for a free photo-op wherein you can have a scenic background of the Hot Air Balloon event.
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| It was a good day for kite flying. Kites were also being sold on-site. |
I love the experience of seeing the Hot Air Balloons during sunrise. The only drawback would be the amount of dust you get to breathe. I got sick after a few days because of the accumulation of dust and dirt on my throat. But would I recommend it? Yes, I still would! Some of my friends went there during sunset to night time where the scenery is just as fantastic.
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| That dog balloon is flying up the wrong way 😂 |
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