The most elegant way to experience a Kenya wildlife safari is in a hot-air balloon. After the balloon wildlife safari over the vast plains and savannahs of Kenya, the crew and the passengers of the hot air balloon flight will toast and enjoy a champagne reception. An elaborate breakfast accompanies the champagne toast at the landing place. There is a reason behind this celebration that dates back to the time when the innovators staged the first few hot air balloon flights in the late 1780s.
Champagne breakfast after the balloon safari
Local farmers’ wrath
Back in those days when hot air balloon was a novelty, the noble people of France used them as a status symbol. To own a hot air balloon was considered to be exotic. As balloons became a fad, the French aristocratic families soon learned that the farmers did not much like people landing balloons down on their land. The peasants were afraid because the aircraft looked like dragons. While the smoke that powered them may have looked like dragons, it appeared more likely that the local farmers did not want the balloons crushing their crops. Hence, often in the pioneer times of ballooning, when seeing an object descend from the sky, the local farmers would grow afraid or angry and destroy the balloons, attack the balloonists, and chase them off.
A tradition was being born Source: EHNE
Tradition being born
The balloonists had to find a way to circumnavigate the wrath of the local farmers. And they did stumble upon an amicable strategy that put the farmers in the pockets. In the olden days, the pilots used to carry a bottle of champagne along with them to enjoy. They used it to toast each other on board the flight. But instead of drinking it, they used it as a goodwill offer to the farmers whose field their balloon had landed. A tradition was being born. Henceforth, the balloonists carried champagne on their flights and toasted it to the spectators to put their minds at ease. This gesture convinced the local farmers that they were harmless and not dragons as they previously believed. The champagne gift acted as a sincere apology for disturbing the animals grazing in the field. This tradition still stands today.
The first legendary aeronauts in the history of hot air balloon were Le Marquis d’Arlandes and Jean-Francois Pilatre de Roziers
Following the footsteps
The first legendary aeronauts in the history of hot air balloon were Le Marquis d’Arlandes and Jean-Francois Pilatre de Roziers. In 1783, after successfully flying over Paris in France they celebrated their achievement with champagne. To preserve the long-lived tradition, after each hour-long balloon safari in Kenya, upon landing, the pilot recites the balloonist’s prayer and offer a champagne breakfast. Hors-d’oeuvres and mimosas are also available with every balloon flight. For engagements and weddings, additional accompaniments are provided to make the experience special.
The champagne breakfast’s origin is unclear. However, it was a European social custom in the past century, with champagne been associated with special occasions and celebrations. The tradition of having champagne for breakfast evolved to mark important occasions such as anniversaries, weddings, and milestones. In ballooning, this grand tradition is carried out to celebrate the thrill and adventure of the ride, and to add to the celebratory and memorable experience.
How did champagne breakfast evolve as a status symbol?
Champagne has been associated with sophistication and luxury in France as it was a social custom of the aristocratic classes and wealthy, making the tradition a status image. They were served in grand restaurants and hotels and were a mark of good taste and refinement. This way, the popular tradition of champagne breakfast spread to the middle classes. It became a way to celebrate memorable and special occasions and continued to be a popular tradition. Today, this tradition is found in many countries, enjoyed by people of all walks of life.
What is the origin of the tradition of champagne among the early balloonists in France?
The tradition of champagne breakfast is rooted in ballooning itself. The spectacle of the pioneering flights in France in the 1700s quickly captured the imagination of the public. Thereafter, ballooning became a pastime among the wealthy and aristocratic classes and soon became prestigious and a status symbol. As it grew in popularity, every successful flight was followed by a champagne toast. The reasons are not clear, but the association between celebrations and champagne is connected to the prestige of drinking vintage wine. Besides, the pioneer balloonists often launched their balloon flights from the wealthy patrons’ estates, who would provide champagne as a cool gesture of celebration and hospitality. This way, the tradition became deeply ingrained in ballooning. Today, many ballooning festivals and events include champagne celebrations and receptions.
What is the balloonist's prayer?
The Balloonist’s Prayer is a traditional prayer recited by hot air balloonists before each flight, asking for safety and guidance during their journey. The exact wording may vary depending on the individual, but the general sentiment is as follows:
“Oh God, the Creator of the universe, source of all knowledge and power, guide me in my flight. Give me the wisdom to know when to rise and when to descend. Help me to stay focused on my path and to navigate through any obstacles that may come my way.
Protect me and my passengers from harm and grant us a safe and enjoyable journey. May we marvel at the beauty of the earth from above and feel the thrill of the wind in our faces.
Lord, I ask that you watch over me and all those who are involved in this flight. Grant us your grace and mercy, and help us to return safely to the ground.
I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.”
What does the menu of champagne breakfast after a hot air balloon safari ride include?
Indulging in a champagne breakfast while on safari in Kenya is an experience unlike any other. The decadent meal typically includes fresh fruits and pastries, followed by a mouthwatering selection of hot dishes such as eggs benedict, sausage, bacon, and grilled tomatoes. Of course, the star of the show is the champagne, perfectly chilled and ready for toasting as you watch the sun rise over the savannah. Many safari companies also offer the opportunity to take in the spectacular views from a hot air balloon before enjoying breakfast. This luxurious start to the day is the perfect way to fuel up before setting off on your adventurous wildlife tour.
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