Have you ever imagined flying? Gliding through the air, wind in your hair, the earth miles below, becoming one with the clouds and sky. It’s a common fantasy that has served as inspiration for artists and inventors the world over.
“You talk to most paragliders, pilots, they’ll tell you that when they were kids, they used to have dreams about being able to stand out in the wind with their arms out and flying,” one adventurous spirit told us in our Cover Story.
He was referring specifically to paragliding, which involves steering a parachute through the air while suspended from a harness. Similar to hang gliding, but generally easier to learn…and a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of the Central Coast. If the idea of taking flight gives you a delicious thrill, you’ll definitely want to check out our paragliding feature. And perhaps consider signing up for a lesson yourself.
For a more grounded form of exhilaration, it’s hard to beat polo. Horses thundering down the field, the athletic prowess of the riders, the festive atmosphere in the stands…spectators and players alike get caught up in the excitement. One of the best places to watch a polo match is just up the road in Carpinteria, at the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club, and the season gets underway this month! Take a look at our Profile to learn what the “sport of kings” is all about.
“Thrilling” is not a word one associates with wine tasting. But “delicious,” “social” and “relaxing” go down easy any time. Ventura County is custom made for wine lovers, offering many options for sampling locally crafted vintages…with glorious views and tasty bites to boot. No need to drive to Napa, Sonoma or even Santa Ynez — a memorable wine tasting escapade is available right out your front door. We suggest one fun experience involving the trifecta of Ventura, Ojai and Santa Paula in About Town.
Did you know that California is experiencing one of the largest avocado harvests in years? We rounded up some fantastic recipes to take advantage of this oh-so-yummy crop.
Up to the skies, down to the fields, around the county or in your own kitchen — there are plenty of ways to put some surge in your summer. Embrace the opportunities, and let your spirits soar!