I’ve Got Wings! My 2019 Paragliding Experience
Sometimes I wonder how it feels to fly like a bird. Until one day, I’ve got wings and fly!
Nah! I didn’t transform into a bird nor an angel (although sometimes, I look like one, charot!). It’s the combination of a paraglider, a specific winged apparatus, and a human ingenuity to get airborne known as paragliding.
Paragliding is an adventure sport and tandem flight with an instructor that allows you to fly over mountains, admire the landscapes, and enjoy the silence up there. We got our package from Fly Xtreme Philippines for Php 2,800.00 (per pax). I suggest that you form a large group so that cost per pax will be reduced. Fly Xtreme Philippines is currently operating in Binangonan, Rizal and in Carmona, Cavite. Feel free to contact them on Facebook and they would be glad to assist you. Once registered, the following reminders will be sent to you for reference:
What to prepare?
Expect hot weather or little rain.
- Polyester/trekking pants/leggings (Shorts is not recommended due to sharp grasses)
- Any dry fit (or similar material) shirt for comfort
- Sun protection (hat, sun block, shades, long sleeve jersey
- Outdoor/trekking/trail/running shoes (slippers strongly discouraged)
- Extra clothes
- Toiletries (insect repellant, alcohol, wipes)
- Camera/Video Camera for souvenir shots
- Snacks
- Seat
- Music player (optional)
How to go to the paragliding area in Binangonan?
- Ride UV Express in Starmall Terminal for P60.00 going to Binangonan, Tanay, or Cardona.
- Drop off at Brgy. Mahabang Parang, Bingangonan, Rizal (near Westpointe Subdivision; located on your right)
- Ride a tricycle going to the paragliding area for P15.00.
Note: Use the same route when you go back.
The Experience
Our original schedule was January 27, but due to unfavorable weather conditions, it was moved to February 17. Note that the place is subject to change also. We were advised a day before that the activity will be done in Binangonan instead of Carmona. It was good though, because my friend got feedback that the paragliding area in Binangonan was way better than that of Carmona both in terms of takeoff and landing area. I guess, Fly Xtreme Philippines was not the only group that organizes this sport because someone asked us upon arrival, “Fly Xtreme? Kay Kuya Mike kayo”. There were 2-3 organizers with 5-6 pax each. On the other hand, there were four (4) certified pilots in the area; three (3) of them were Korean, and one (1) was French.
The intensity of the wind was unpredictable – for a moment it was weak and then very strong. Light wind is appropriate for lightweight passengers, while strong wind is for light middleweight and beyond. The wind was weak during our turn, and four (4) in our group were able to fly simultaneously; they reached the other side (of the mountain), and their respective pilots were able to perform an exhibition. I had to wait until one of my friends went back with my GoPro. Unfortunately, when it was already my turn (I was the last one), the wind became stronger and Armand, the French pilot assigned to me, advised me to stay and wait for a while until the wind became weaker…but it remained strong. I felt a bit disappointed because I thought I would not make it. Sayang pagpunta! But the Korean pilots brought a suitable paraglider for strong winds where backpack-like gear was heavier than the usual. Instead of Armand, one of the Korean guys named Jason flew with me.
Three (3) men had to hold our gears to prevent it from sudden, unintended, and not so well prepared takeoff. They advised me to keep my legs strong and maintain the standing position. I was scared at first and a lot of “what ifs” were running in my head. But when the men let us go and we started ascending, fear was replaced by amazement and enjoyment. I flew like a bird, driven by wind, while gazing at the mountains around us, and the planting areas beneath for about 10-15 minutes. Jason and I had a short chit-chat during the flight and I learned that he has been doing paragliding for seven (7) years. He arrived in the Philippines three (3) months ago, still single and ready to mingle at 41. I told him that I’ve been to South Korea in 2014 that’s why in my video, you will hear Max saying “Saranghaeyo” while showing the finger-heart sign.
My favorite part was when we dance and swing in the air. My signature “tili” was of course recorded.
If you have your GoPro, be sure to set the mode to “Video and Photo” to be able to take pictures (every five (5) seconds depending on how you configure it) and video at the same time.
We descended in a spiral motion and since the air was still strong, landing wasn’t so smooth. I thought I might get leg strain but thank God we’re safe!
Overall, it was an awesome experience! Ganun pala yung pakiramdam ng mga ibon!
Are you done listing the activities that you would like to try for 2019? It is still not too late to include paragliding. Indeed a MUST TRY!