Review: Sky Venture in Orlando

This whole experience took place quite a while ago. It had to be in late '98 or some time around there. Anyway, it wasn't something that was planned at all. A few friends and I were down on International Dr. in Orlando. In case you don't know, that a pretty large attraction area that has Wet 'N Wild right there and a huge haunted house called Skull Kingdom.

Well, we passed by a large blue and yellow building with a "Sky Venture" sign out in front. Now I wasn't sure, but I guessed it was some kind of indoor skydiving room. Of course, like what usually happens, I was right. We went into the office and got some information and decided to do it. At the time, it cost about $42 per person, so it's not the cheapest thing in the world but I thought it was quite worth it.

Once we paid for everything we went into the main building and into a small classroom where we were taught the basics of controlling yourself when your falling through the air, or in this case, riding a cushion of air. After the lesson, everyone got issued a sweet skydiving suit. I felt like I was wearing a mechanics jumpsuit designed by MC Hammer. Super baggy and very colorful.

From there it was time to head into the fun room. Once you step to the glass viewing area they start the fan up. The instructor will usually go first to show you exactly how you do it if you have hundreds of hours practicing. Definitely keep in mind that you will not be this good. These people like to run 15 feet up the side of the walls and backflip into some strange lotus position while spinning around upside down.

As my friends and I take our turns falling against the side of the walls and laughing to the point that your unable to hold yourself in the air, you can't help but realize why you have to jump from an airplane with a professional strapped to your back. I used to think that falling out of the sky would have to be the easiest thing in the world, just jump and let gravity do the work. Apparently there's some technique to it... go figure.

All in all, it was a really good time. They send you on your way with a pretty good videotape, probably a dvd now, so you can show your family and friends how cool you are and they're not.

If you are looking for something out of the ordinary to do and like a little excitement, I would recommend it. Call ahead though to make sure they have some openings and you don't need an appointment.