Alright, so let’s talk about my skydiving adventure in Toronto. I decided to finally tick this off my bucket list, and let me tell you, it was something else!
Getting Started
First things first, I started looking into places near Toronto that offered skydiving. I found a couple of highly-rated spots, and after reading some reviews and comparing prices, I picked one that seemed like a good fit. I booked my jump a few weeks in advance, just to be sure I got a spot, especially since it was during the peak season.
The Big Day
On the day of the jump, I woke up super early, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. I drove over to the drop zone, which was about an hour outside of Toronto. When I got there, I checked in and then waited for my turn. There were a bunch of other people there, some first-timers like me, and some who looked like they’d done this a million times.
Training Time
Before the jump, we had a quick training session. An instructor walked us through the basics – how to position our bodies during freefall, what to expect during the parachute ride, and how to land safely. It was pretty straightforward, but it definitely helped calm my nerves a bit.
Gearing Up
After the training, they helped me get into my harness and gear. They made sure everything was secure and checked it multiple times, which was reassuring. I was jumping tandem, so I was strapped to an experienced instructor the whole time.
The Flight Up
Next, we boarded a small plane. The flight up to 14,000 feet took about 20 minutes. As we climbed higher, the views of the Toronto skyline and the surrounding countryside were amazing. I tried to enjoy the scenery, but honestly, I was mostly thinking about the jump.
The Jump
When we reached altitude, the door opened, and the rush of cold air hit us. My instructor and I shuffled to the edge. He gave me a final thumbs-up, and then we were out. The freefall was insane – the wind rushing past me, the ground getting closer at an incredible speed. It was a total sensory overload, but in the best way possible.
Parachute Ride
After about 60 seconds of freefall, the instructor pulled the parachute. The sudden jerk upwards was a bit of a shock, but then it was smooth sailing. The parachute ride down was much more peaceful. I could finally take in the views without the adrenaline pumping like crazy. We floated down for about 5-7 minutes, and it was just beautiful.
Landing
As we approached the ground, the instructor told me to lift my legs for the landing. We touched down gently, and just like that, it was over. I was buzzing with excitement and couldn’t stop smiling.
Price Breakdown
Now, about the price. My tandem skydive cost around $300. I also opted for the video and photo package, which was an extra $150. So, in total, I spent about $450. It was definitely a splurge, but for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I’d say it was worth every penny.
Final Thoughts
Skydiving in Toronto was one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. If you’re thinking about doing it, I highly recommend it. Just make sure to do your research, pick a reputable place, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. And hey, if you’re on the fence, just remember – you only live once!
