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Travel: Valle De Bravo, Mexico
Travel: Valle De Bravo, Mexico
My recent trip to Valle de Bravo, Mexico was an unforgettable mix of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class paragliding. Each day began with thermal flights over pine-covered mountains and broad valleys, often wrapping up with a glide back to the scenic lakefront landing zone. Launching from the iconic El Peñón—one of the most reliable and respected flying sites in the world—offered consistent conditions and routes perfect for building thermal skills. For those with more experience, Valle is also an ideal training ground for longer cross-country flights, with established XC lines and a strong flying community. Off the hill, the food was a standout—especially evenings in Taco Alley and visits to our favorite handmade empanada spot, where we enjoyed incredible local flavors in a warm, lively atmosphere. A side trip to the monarch butterfly preserve brought a quiet kind of magic—millions of butterflies clustered in the forest canopy, just a short drive from town. The locals were kind, welcoming, and proud of their home, making the entire trip not just about flying, but about connection and culture. For pilots seeking skill progression, adventure, and a rich travel experience, Valle delivers on every front.
Kavi's Guide to Basics
Kavi's Guide to Basics
1. Always Check the Weather Before You Fly
Ideally, find a forecast that agrees with your plans. If not, just squint at the clouds and declare it “probably fine.”
2. Practice Takeoffs on Gentle Slopes
Or better yet, just run full speed off the first steep hill you find — commitment is half the battle.
3. Stay Aware of Air Traffic
If you see a bird, wave. If you see a plane, maybe just duck a little.
4. Inspect Your Equipment Regularly
Give everything a quick glance while you’re walking to launch. If nothing is actively on fire, you’re probably okay.
5. Understand How Thermals Work
Or don’t. Just float around and trust that warm air will show up when you need it most — like a loyal golden retriever.
6. Choose Your Landing Zone Carefully
Aim for large, open fields. Or, in a pinch, anything vaguely horizontal that isn’t currently on fire.
7. Maintain Good Posture in Flight
Sit comfortably, stay relaxed, and try not to look like you’re clenching for dear life.
8. Listen to Experienced Pilots
Nod thoughtfully, thank them, and then do the exact opposite because your gut feeling is basically science.
9. Log Your Flights to Track Progress
Or to piece together what exactly went wrong when you mysteriously landed two towns over.
10. Have a Backup Plan for Every Flight
Like, for example, "sprint toward the nearest shrub and hope it breaks your fall" — a classic.
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