Welcome to Dreambook, a nifty new free service from:
New Dream Network, Dreamhost, and Dreamservers!If you have a minute, please sign my Dreambook too!
| Name: | Edward |
| E-mail address: | edward@shaw.ca |
| Homepage URL: | http://werkyn.iespana.es/actonel/actonel-dosage.html |
| Comments: | Our partners : where to get tussionex is about where to get tussionex... zithromax z pak is about zithromax z pak... I am so excited to have been invited to this site! It is wonderful, and I see, a lot of work went into it! I look forward to meeting you all in cyberspace! Visit our site and if anyone wants to contact me...please do! |
| Name: | Therese Hanlon |
| E-mail address: | post.8@nd.edu |
| Comments: | I see that my friend Sharon has already shared our experience with Paulo and the Just Fly Team. I would also like to take a moment and encourage anyone considering hang gliding to work with the Just Fly team.
Having previous aviation (skydiving, airplane, and helicopter) experiences, I appreciated the attention to detail and concern for safety. This is a first rate operation! Follow Sharon's suggestions and enjoy the experience. It was breathtaking and the most beautiful memory from my trip to Rio! |
| Name: | Sharon Schierling |
| E-mail address: | sschierl@nd.edu |
| Comments: | Without a doubt, the highlight of our trip to Brazil was hang gliding over Rio de Janeiro with Paulo Celani's Just Fly team.
Like other commentators below, I did a good deal of research -- both in guidebooks and numerous online reviews -- before choosing Just Fly, and they completely lived up to my high expectations. Unfortunately for us, the weather didn't cooperate on the day we had originally planned to fly but Paulo kept us updated until, finally, on the third day, we were able to make the flight. (This is a good tip for your own trip planning: Schedule your flight early during your stay in Rio in case it has to be postponed -- and be flexible if you have to rearrange other plans because this is worth it!) Since all my correspondence and phone calls had been with Paulo Celani, initially I was disappointed to learn that he would not be the pilot on my tandem flight. But the Just Fly instructors assigned to us -- another Paulo and Marcos (who accompanied my friend Therese) -- were excellent. They were very precise in the safety instructions and preparations, and were top notch pilots too. I was amazed at how smooth the takeoff and landing were. But the best part, of course, was soaring through the air like a bird on the wind (no engine noise) over one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There may be other places to hang glide that have equally beautiful views of a coastline and ocean but the buildings added scale that you wouldn't otherwise have (like adding a person to a photo to show scale). And if you think Rio is pretty from Corcovado or Sugarloaf, just wait until you see it like this! Forget the expensive helicopter rides -- this is much better. For most, this would be the experience of a lifetime. For me, it will be the unforgettable experience of my first hang gliding flight. I say "first" because I am now hooked and have to find a way to do it again. THANKS Paulo and everyone on the Just Fly team for introducing me to your sport. |
| Name: | Fortunato Moreira |
| E-mail address: | fs111@btinternet.com |
| Comments: | Hi; I flew with you two years ago. Well, I am returning to Rio this coming August with some friends. I believe some of them would like to fly with you, so, is it possible for you to send me an emai? I would like to get some details from you.
Once again, many thanks |
| Name: | Alicia Phung and Stephen Ngui |
| Comments: | After scouring through many travel guidebooks, Lonely Planet amongst them, and internet websites for a reputable tandem hang gliding provider in Rio, I finally decided on "Just Fly" I emailed Paulo and he was very quick to respond to my queries. The information given was very professional and detailed and gave me a lot of confidence in him and his team. Hence through email, I arranged a flying date with Paulo and his other instructor Marcos for my husband and I. When in Rio and the day before the flight, I called Paulo directly to confirm plans and also to check the weather conditions.
On the day of the flight, we were picked up from our hotel by the taxi driver (also called Marcos) who was very friendly and has obviously worked a lot with Just Fly. We met Paulo at Pepino beach and I immediately felt comfortable with him. After waiting a short while to get the equipment organised from the previous flight, we were driven up to Pedra Bonita the take-off point through the beauticul Tijuca Forest National Park. Paulo and his other instructor Marcos gave us both a safety briefing and told us what we had to do…which was pretty much running off the ramp. They gave clear instructions and whilst safety was their main priority they were very humorous. I asked what was in the pouch they were carrying on their chest, Marcos turned round and said that it's the emergency parachute…and there was only one….and he gave a cheeky smile. So I watched my husband, Steve take off with Marcos. Looked easy enough. When it was my turn, Paulo calmed my nerves and told me to look into the horizon while running and do not look down. On his count, I ran for my life, felt the ground vanish from under my feet, felt my stomach do a somersault as we dropped and a moment later, we were soaring high in the air. We were flying ! Having a bird's eye view of the Rio city, forest and beach was amazing. It was so exhilarating I didn't want to land ! Marcos gave Steve a little taste of an adrenalin rush at the end by doing a tight circle I think….which Steve immensely enjoyed..:) Thank you Paolo and your team for this wonderful experience ! If I was ever going to trust someone with my life by running off a cliff….it would be Paulo and his Just Fly team. I'd recommend hang gliding to all my adrenalin junkie friends Alicia Phung Date of flight:- 25 May 2009 |
| Name: | Kristin Tyler |
| E-mail address: | kruse3@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | My husband and I visited Rio in May 2009. By far the highlight of our trip was our hang gliding experience with Paulo Celani and his team from Just Fly!!!
Paulo & his team made us feel very comfortable. The flight was so smooth - we felt like birds. The views were spectacular! We purchased the photos and we have had such fun showing them to our family & friends. If you are going to Rio, you have to add this to your travel plans. Thanks, Paulo!!! Kristin T. Las Vegas, NV |
| Name: | Debbie DeMars |
| E-mail address: | demarsd@aol.com |
| Comments: | Hello.
We found Just Fly Hang Gliding through a key word search on google on our trip to Argentina and Brazil. We also found some youtube video that people had from their flights. We interacted with Paulo prior to arriving to make the arrangements. He was very informative and sent information in a timely manner. The day of our flight, the driver picked us up right on time and was very gracious. My husband and I both took a flight and it was an amazing experience!! The best experience of our 21 day trip to Argentina and Brazil. The team was very safety conscious, yet used good humor as well to make sure we did not get too nervous. it was amazing to think that we ran off a cliff and flew over the mountains, ocean, and beach - incredibly beautiful!! We will do this again if we go to Brazil and would recommend Paulo Celani and his team to any travelers. Be sure and get the dvd (video) - we watch it almost every day! Sincerely, Debbie DeMars demarsd@aol.com 407-810-3272 |
| Name: | Debbie DeMars |
| E-mail address: | demarsd@aol.com |
| Comments: | Hello.
We found Just Fly Hang Gliding through a key word search on google on our trip to Argentina and Brazil. We also found some youtube video that people had from their flights. We interacted with Paulo prior to arriving to make the arrangements. He was very informative and sent information in a timely manner. The day of our flight, the driver picked us up right on time and was very gracious. My husband and I both took a flight and it was an amazing experience!! The best experience of our 21 day trip to Argentina and Brazil. The team was very safety conscious, yet used good humor as well to make sure we did not get too nervous. it was amazing to think that we ran off a cliff and flew over the mountains, ocean, and beach - incredibly beautiful!! We will do this again if we go to Brazil and would recommend Paulo Celani and his team to any travelers. Be sure and get the dvd (video) - we watch it almost every day! Sincerely, Debbie DeMars demarsd@aol.com 407-810-3272 |
| Name: | Steven |
| Comments: | I wanted to share my positive experience hang gliding in Rio last January with Paulo.
After several days of rain we finally went out on a clear day to experience the thrill of a lifetime! Paulo and his team made the whole morning very easy starting with a door to door pickup and drop off at my hotel. Upon arrival at the beach I was greeted by Paulo. He calmly explained and answered all my questions and proceeded to guide me through the steps needed for a safe and comfortable flight. The hang gliding experience was the highlight of my south american trip. I highly recommend Paulo and the Just Fly experience to anyone who wants to live a dream! Steven Toronto, Canada |
| Name: | Emily S. |
| E-mail address: | eseto23@yahoo.ca |
| Comments: | I had the opportunity to fly with Paulo Celani and his "Just Fly" team in Feb. 2009. It was one of my most memorable experiences. He is very professional and make every effort to make you feel comfortable and confident. Thanks Paulo!
Emily, Vancouver,Canada |
| Name: | Michael Van Dorn |
| E-mail address: | VanDornArt@msn.com |
| Comments: | I highly recommend flying beautiful Pedra Bonita with Paulo Celani. He is a great guy. Very experienced and professional, but also friendly, enthusiastic, and humorous. He also flys a new glider, the forgiving easy-handling Wills Wing Falcon 3.
Thanks for a great flight, Paulo!! |
| Name: | Mitchell O'Gorman |
| E-mail address: | mitchell_ogorman@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Paulo, I'm back in work in Ireland. I want to be flying again!!! It was better than sex! Don't tell my girlfriend! :) |
| Name: | Elizabeth |
| E-mail address: | elizabeth@cox.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://aldjo.8k.com/novelty/novelty-hill.html |
| Comments: | Hi, congratulation to webmaster, regards from Austria! Support us by visiting how to play blackjack for a living ... the mortgage tree ... |
| Name: | Cody Pedersen |
| Comments: | One of my most memorable experiences in Brazil was the time I spent gliding over Rio with Paulo. I am not a daring guy but Paulo talked me through the entire process, made sure I was comfortable, and then directed me through an incredible tandem flight down to the beach. My friend and I flew on our last day in Rio, and Paulo let us leave our things at his hostel, and use his showers later that day. Because of Paulo and his team we had a blast hang-gliding in the morning, a fun day at the beach, and were able to clean up before our flight home to the States. Thanks again for everything, Paulo. |
| Name: | Elsie Ray |
| E-mail address: | keray@suddenlink.net |
| Comments: | Thank you again Paulo. The experience you gave our 15 year old grandson, Joshua, was unforgetable. It was the highlight of our 20 day trip to S. America. You made us all feel very comfortable. None of us ever had a moment of second thoughts. The pictures came out great both video and still pics. We are really grateful. Sincerely, Elsie Ray |
| Name: | David and Amanda |
| Comments: | We flew with JustFly in May 2008. JustFly is a great team and we had an excellent experience. Weather kept us from flying on our first day, but Paulo and his team just rescheduled us for the next day. Keep running and enjoy the flight! |
| Name: | Christine Liu |
| E-mail address: | christine.w.liu@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I had a wonderful experience hang gliding with you in Rio! It had been on my to-do list for quite some time and I'm so glad that I finally was able to do so. It was such an adrenaline rush jumping off the runway and seeing all of Rio at a bird's eye view. Definitely would recommend hang gliding and Paulo as an instructor!
- Christine, USA |
| Name: | peter hendriks |
| E-mail address: | perrocles@home.nl |
| Homepage URL: | http://landgoedwinckel.nl/ |
| Comments: | Hello Paulo
My name is Peter Hendriks,I used to work for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and I flew with you and Hilton a couple of times in the beginning of the ninetees Saw your website and thought to write you a note Hope you still have the “hot foot” One day I will come with my wife and go for a ride with you In the meantime:keep em flying Greeting Peter |
| Name: | MJ McLaren |
| E-mail address: | alpha423@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I had the most marvellous dreamlike experience hang-gliding with Paulo in April 2008, and cannot recommend it enough. He was calm, friendly, helpful and utterly professional. |
| Name: | Lucas Freed |
| Comments: | We were on our honeymoon in Rio in March 2008. One of our first, and most memorable experiences while in town was to go tandem hang-gliding with JUSTFLY. One of the most important aspects for us was safety. We saw several other companies that could save a few bucks, but ultimately we chose Paulo due to his reputation of safety. Furthermore, the thing that brought my new wife comfort was on the way up to our takeoff location Paulo mentioned that he takes his children flying with him when they are old enough. If this guy takes his children then he must feel that it is safe. THANKS JUSTFLY! |
| Name: | Jim Woolam |
| Comments: | Hi Paulo my wife and I are finally back in Ft. Myers Florida. Without question my hand gliding experience was the highlight of our time in Rio, (and we had some great highlights) I have memory, including a video, that will last a lifetime. If we make it back to Rio (and hope we will) Just Fly will be right on the top of my list. Thanks again my good friend ou are a great ambassador for Rio. Peace jim woolam
|
| Name: | Albert Halprin |
| E-mail address: | bert@htgm.com |
| Comments: | We had an amazing time with Paulo. Anyone sho wants the thrill of a lifetime with perfect safety to do this. In addition, Paulo went out of his way to help us find and book other activities during our time in Rio. It is impossible to imagine any way he could have improved the gliding itself or been of more help. (Of course, I'd love stronger winds the next time we are down.)
Bert |
| Name: | John Bishop and Lina McCarty |
| E-mail address: | john.c.bishop@citi.com |
| Comments: | Fantastic experience - this was one of the highlights of our Rio trip. Paulo and his team are first rate - picked us up at the hotel, very up front about costs and options, and dropped us off when were done. Lina and I had a wonderful time and never once felt unsafe. I recommend them to anyone considering a first time hang gliding experience while in Rio. |
| Name: | STACEY MAMAUAG |
| E-mail address: | lune8soleil@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | This had to be the highlight of my trip to Rio.Never thought I still had the nerve to do stuff like this but I did,and it was so worth it! When I got back home to England I showed my friends the dvd and though some thought I had lost my mind doing it, the others were totally in awe and wished they were up there themselves.I must thank my gorgeous instructor Alfredo??(I can't remember his name-I flew on the 27th Nov 2007-apologies)- for a real smooth flight and landing.But most of all for keeping us both alive(ha,ha,ha).My sister can't wait to do it next year so I hope Alfredo (or whoever my lovely instructor was)is available for her. (please tell me his name - it's killing me trying to remember!)
Thank You for a mind blowing experience - till next time.... |
| Name: | Karen & Roberto |
| E-mail address: | kazzat1999@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | It was my fiance's first visit to Rio and a milestone birthday for me so we decided to celebrate it with our first ever experience Hand-Gliding. Paulo came highly recommended by flight crew collegues who had taken flights with him in the past. We were both really impressed with the organisation, we were promptly collected from our hotel, driven up to the venue & given our "training". I will never forget that sensation when we "took off", absolutely exhilarating. I had 100% confidence in my instructor and the experience was amazing. The flight was the highlight of our trip to Rio. Thanks to Paulo and the guys for being so professional and making that experience so memorable. |
| Name: | Jeanhee Kim |
| E-mail address: | jkim478025@aol.com |
| Comments: | My trip to Rio was amazing and it was all because of Paulo and his team!!! Our guide was Jose Carlos and he was the best!!! Took us biking, hiking in Tijuca Forest and even took us shopping downtown!!! The first 2 days we were in Rio, the wind was no good, so Paulo and the team met us at 6:30AM to take us hang gliding!!! That's what I call customer satisfaction! They wanted to make sure we got the experience in before our noon flight out. The services of Paulo and Jose Carlos really made our trip fantastic! It made my trip to Rio one of the most memorable trips I have ever taken too! Thank you to Paulo and Jose Carlos for the best trip!!!!!! |
| Name: | William Stickley |
| E-mail address: | william_stickley@sandp.com |
| Comments: | I can't reccomend this tandem hang-gliding flight enough! It was a great experience and I would have done it again if I had the time! Everything was very well coordinated - the ride to and from the park, the safety briefing, the landing, etc...Paulo was great in communicating his weather concerns before the flight and generally eased my mind before booking. Absolutely nothing to be afraid of!! Thanks Paulo & Staff for a great experience! |
| Name: | Kerry Asker |
| E-mail address: | kerry_asker@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I flew with Paulo on my last day in Rio back in August...and I'm still raving about it now! Paulo and his team made me the envy of my friends back home, the whole experience was straight-forward, safe and sooo much fun, that as soon as we landed I wanted to do it all over again. Paulo & his staff went out of their way to help me get airbourne and fit in another sightseeing opportunity after flying, before I had to head to the airport for my flight home. Thank you guys.
If you do one thing in Rio, go fly with Just fly! |
| Name: | Lindsey Carragher |
| E-mail address: | lindseycarragher@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: | What a way to orientate yourself to Rio. I am the envy of my friends and have now improved my social satus with my adventurous antics. Thank you Paulo for a great experience; I would recommend it to anyone! |
| Name: | sam pacifico |
| E-mail address: | samhp@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | This was one of the most enjoyable and exciting experiences during my trip to Brazil. Paulo Celani and his young staff did everthing possible to make certain that my flight was safe and enjoyable. The transportation to the park was prompt,the staff all spoke English and were friendly and sincere in dealing with their customers. There are numerous groups offering hang gliding in Rio, but I would not even consider ant other after my experience with Paulo and JustFly. I would do this every day if I lived closer to Rio! SAM |
| Name: | Bryce & Rebecca |
| E-mail address: | bvp3us@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Paulo and Miguel were excellent and extremely safe. This was worth every penny- one of the funnest thrills of our life. Thanks Paulo! Um abraco amigo
|
| Name: | gail connellee |
| E-mail address: | gc108@earthlink.net |
| Comments: | Flying with Paulo was awesome. Not only is he a competent, safe flyer, he's one great Brasileiro---honost, friendly, caring, and goes the extra mile to make your stay in Rio a truly memorable one.
You'll find other hang gliding pilots who have fancier web pges and cheaper prices, but Paulo's sincerity and kindness are hard to beat. Before I'd even arrived in Brazil, he'd sent me detailed, personable answers to all my questions. He was obviously not just out for the money. He did not push me to fly when conditions were unfavorable, but kept closely in touch and did all he could to make it happen for me. When I first stepped on to the ramp, I felt immediately safe and secure in his care. The experience? Breath taking. Peaceful. Floating above the trees, the beach and the sea with the wind beneath my wings. Don't miss this unique and wonderful thrill of a lifetime and be sure to fly with Paulo. |
| Name: | Neill Crump |
| E-mail address: | neillc1@btopenworld.com |
| Comments: | My wife and I decided to finish our honeymoon with a hang gliding experience. We had an amazing honeymoon (skiing in Patagonia, enjoying the beaches in Bahia etc) but the highlight for me was the hang gliding experience with Paolo.
We were picked up from the hotel and taken to Tijuca Forest National Park where we given the safety knowledge before taking off for a truly memorable experience. And to top it all off, we took home some great photos and DVD footage to remember the trip and show some friends. Paolo also introduced us to some friends who arranged some great trips around Rio. Perfect! |
| Name: | Drew Glaser |
| Comments: | I wanted to share with you my experience with Paulo Celani and Just Fly in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Not only was everyone very friendly, spoke fluent English, and made us feel safe, but they really went above and beyond. There was a problem with the camera during the flight, so Paulo personally took me hang gliding the next day again FOR FREE, just to get the video. Paulo wasn't even planning on flying on this day but he took the time to give me a free flight.
Sincerely, Drew Glaser |
| Name: | Julie Matson |
| E-mail address: | jmatson@admgt.com |
| Comments: | Paulo,
We are back in the United States and wanted to thank you very much for such a great family adventure! We love to tell people what we did while on vacation in Rio! It sure was memorable and we have you to thank. From the pick up to the drop off, we felt well taken care of. Our daughter Lindsay's video is spectacular and our photos are a great memory of our family vacation. Thanks again! Julie, David and Lindsay |
| Name: | Fortunato Moreira |
| E-mail address: | fortunato.santos@virgen.net |
| Comments: | Hello there!!!
I have travelled to many different parts of the world and I have seen some amazing sites, done some very exciting and adventurous programs. I can reassure you that nothing is compared with 'hang gliding'. Waw, it was amazing and views extremelly impressive. It was awesome!!! I flew with Paulo Celani, a very pleasant man and very responsible pilot. He is very professional and transmits security. He is very friendly and looks well after those that fly with him. I will do again, and again. Many thanks to Paulo. All the best |
| Name: | Anne M |
| Comments: | I loved flying with Paulo. I am from Brasil and was visiting my aunt/uncle and cousin wiht another friend from the US. My uncle was so afraid for my life (and his daughter's- that's why he didn't let her fly) that he and my aunt asked Paulo and his crew many questions before flying. By the end of it all, my uncle was willing to allow my younger cousin to fly next time I am in Rio.
The experience was MARVELOUS!!! So worth it. Just remember......RUN, RUN, RUN and look above the horizon. Then enjoy the ride! Muito Obrigada Paulo! Valeu! Anne M. |
| Name: | Andreas Norbye |
| Comments: | If you're ever to go Hang Gliding in Rio, the safest option is to go with Paulio. His experience, fluent English and simple-to-understand instructions made me rely on him 100%. As a matter of fact, I'm afraid of heights, but I'll gladly jump with Paulio again!
Regards, Andreas from Norway |
| Name: | Virginia Jung Porto |
| E-mail address: | virginiajporto@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.flickr.com/photos/vickiporto |
| Comments: | Oi, Paulo! Aqui é a Virginia, gaúcha que trabalhava no InterContinental, depois no Sheraton... Bom, męs passado estive em Porto Alegre, numa festa onde encontrei com o Ricardo, também ex-do InterContinental, e relembrando os velhos tempos, teu nome apareceu.
Por onde anda? Eu estou trabalhando da Del Bianco, operadora de receptivo. Me manda um email contando como tu está e com teus contatos (tenho um cartăo antiiiiigo) para que eu possa mandar alguém voar contigo, quando me pedirem. Meu email é virginiajporto@gmail.com Um beijo! Vicki |
| Name: | Reihard Ketsche |
| Comments: | I recently took a trip to Rio de Janeiro. One of the activities I participated in was hang gliding in tandem with the "Just Fly" hanggliding team.
Paulo Celani is very experienced and professional in preparing a novice for the flight. From the punctual arrival of transportation at the hotel to the landing on the beach and the prompt and reliable transportation back to the hotel, everything in the experience was excellent. Though my wife was initially reluctant to attempt to fly, observing the professional manner in which the "Just Fly" team dealt with their customers convinced her that she could try this as well. Their equipment is top notch and brand new. Paulo and his team are extremely safety conscious and do not hesitate to delay or cancel a flight when winds are questionable, as they did the day my wife was scheduled to fly. Paulo's English is excellent so there are no problems in communicating with the customers, and the time spent in transportation, preparation for flight, and waiting in line is an opportunity to hear about the highlights of Rio from someone who loves the city. Both my wife and I could tell that for Paulo and the "Just Fly" team, flying and showing visitors the city of Rio is not just a job, it's a passion. When we return to Rio, we will definitely fly with Paulo and his team again. |
| Name: | Maya |
| Comments: | I loved every minute of hang gliding with Paulo and was ready to do the whole thing again when I landed on the beautiful beach! The entire experience was amazing and one of the most exciting in my life - I felt very safe, at peace and had a wonderful time. Paulo and his staff made me feel very comfortable and I am truly grateful for the great memory. Definitely will do it again when I return to Rio! |
| Name: | Julie Ebenstein |
| Comments: | I wanted to write in to recommend Just Fly handgliding
tours in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil! A 4am flight from Salvador brought me into Rio for the final day of my month long trip to Brazil. I decided that it would be a great to see the city from the sky before I had to watch it fade from behind the plane window! Paulo, the owner of Just Fly was extremely friendly, accommodating and generous. He was nice enough to let me use the hostel with which his handgliding company associates to store luggage and have a shower before my evening flight back to New York. One of Just Fly's drivers made everything easy by picking me up and returning me to the hostel that afternoon. It is not my story to tell, but one of the women with whom I was sharing the taxi was visibly handicapped and had difficulty walking. Paulo and his staff helped her with the handglide launch and she too was able to fly. The tandem flight on the handglide was beautiful! My tandem pilot and the staff of Just Fly were professional, friendly and great fun! The beach where we land was a wonderful location - and I was even able to jump in the surf for a last swim. It was truly a magical day! All the best, Julie New York, NY |
| Name: | Jared Alster |
| Comments: | Just Fly is the only way to go hang gliding in Rio. Paulo and his team make you feel both safe and excited right from the start. I even enjoyed the 3 hour wait for the weather to clear and for "good wind." It was great chatting and laughing at the top of the mountain, and the flight was nothing less than spectacular. Paulo was even nice enough to help me set up another trip while in Rio. All the best guys, and thanks again!
-Jared |
| Name: | Kristina |
| E-mail address: | kleszczak@gmail.com |
| Comments: | The mere thought of hang-gliding is exciting. Flying with Paulo and his team, however, made my entire experience one of the most memorable moments in my life. I felt safe at all times, too, and Paulo was incredibly kind, patient, and helped me feel comfortable.
...As my pictures show (make sure to buy yours!), hang-gliding with Paulo is FANTASTIC!!... |
| Name: | Felipe |
| E-mail address: | pjw86@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Paulo (e Marcos),
Probably the most exhilerating experience of my time in Rio. Definitely worth the money, the wait and everything.... and it is even better with Just Fly. Paulo is great and his other instructors are (marcos, the guy I flew with) gave me a great ride with a wonderful adrenaline rush at the end. Just tell him that you like adrenaline. ;-) Paulo and Marcos, Thank you so much for the wonderful experience. Sincerely, Felipe |
| Name: | Sam & Lilly |
| Comments: | Thanks Paulo and the whole gang for an amazing hang gliding experience. Everything was amazing and thankyou for the care and time taken with both of us....it was great...KEEP ON RUNNING!!!
sam and lilly |
| Name: | Peter Androutsos |
| Comments: | If you are hang gliding in Rio, there is no other option. Paulo is the unquestionably, the safest, most level-headed, honest and charismatic tandem flight instructor from start to finsih. My experience with Paulo and JustFly was spectacular from the getgo. A simple call for some arrangements a few days prior (weather permitting, availability, etc), and two days later there was a car picking up my friend and myself up at my hotel in Ipanema. Until Paulo had completed his current flight (it was taking a while because the girl he was flying with weighed almost nothing and the flight lasted 20 minutes), us and the driver kicked back on the beach and drank coffee and had a coconut water. Paulo found us and we got into his Land Cruiser and headed up the mountain. Even the ride up was enjoyable, and Paulo is a pleasant, interesting, and sincere fellow. At the top of the mountain, we had no problems with gearing up and we were walked through the basic idea. We felt very safe the whole time, and were constantly informed throughout the whole process. The jump went extremely well (I just KEPT RUNNING off the platform!) and suddently we were airborne! We even chatted while in flight.
If I am in Rio again, I will be CERTAIN to jump again with Paulo. Many people call hang gliding an extreme sport, but with Paulo, you are made to feels like you've been doing it for years! |
| Name: | Jacques Florence |
| E-mail address: | jacques.florence@club-internet.fr |
| Comments: | I flew with Paulo on apr 2. My daughter Christelle organized the flight with Paulo as we were visiting her from France while she was studying in the university of Sao Paulo.
I'm very grateful to Christelle for having managed this unforgetable experience. And very grateful to Paulo for his professionalism and for having given me the opportunity to control the hang glider for a long moment. Every thing was very enjoyable, from preparation before take-off to landing on the beach. I can only recommend Paulo tandem flight to anybody that wants to see the planet from a different angle. Thank you ! Jacques |
| Name: | Catherine Trotter |
| E-mail address: | cathytrotter@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I flew with Paulo on Monday 28th May 2007 and I can honestly say that it was the highlight of my holiday in Rio.
I am absolutely petrified of heights but I was determined that I wouldn't miss out on the hang gliding experience that my partner, Duncan, was planning. I had to really push myself into agreeing to participate and I am SO glad I did. Our experience with Paulo and JustFly was unbeatable! Paulo was a true professional. As well as JustFly being a slick operation, Paulo was also helpful, polite and friendly. Throughout the preparations for the flight he repeatedly reassured me that we would only fly if the conditions were right and we would be safe. Some of the other companies that we saw that day were extremely pushy and seemed more interested in the money they could make, rather than the safety of their passengers, but Paulo and JustFly were not like that at all. I would highly recommend hang gliding with Paulo to anyone who is thinking about going to Rio. I can't describe in words the feeling that you have as you're floating on the breeze watching the birds, the other hang gliders and the people (like ants) on the ground below. An amazing and unforgettable experience. Thanks to Paulo and all at JustFly! |
| Name: | Faye Wilde |
| E-mail address: | fayewilde@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | A huge thank you to Paulo and Jose Carlos for making my trip to Rio a very memorable one. I flew on the 10th May and these guys are the best! Definitely the safest operator from what I saw of others on the day, reasonably priced and really great people. I would wholeheartedly recommend this fantastic experience, you are in very safe hands and it's something I will remember forever. Thanks guys, keep up the good work!
Ps Paulo is also great for recommending and booking other tours, transport etc. Just ask and it will all be sorted, great service! |
| Name: | Faye |
| E-mail address: | fayewilde@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Just a quick note to say a very BIG thank you to Paulo and Jose Carlos for a fantastic flight today. Paulo is 110% professional and you are in very safe hands. I too contacted him in advance by email and not only did he make my trip with the hang gliding, he also went out of his way to organise airport transfers and other tours for me. These guys are definitely the best, others were flying when Paulo was holding back to make sure the flight was safe and enjoyable - it was definitely both! I would recommend this to anyone as you really dont need any experience and the whole thing was amazing. Thanks Paulo! :0) |
| Name: | Michael Zalkin |
| E-mail address: | nyyogi@aol.com |
| Comments: | Just a quick note to thank Paolo and Renato for a great flight. My 14 year old daughter and I flew tandem with them and it was wonderful. Prior e-mails with Paolo were very helpful. What we read by others was all true:
1) they are very committed to safety--they did not fly for two days before our flight day. 2) they did not rush our flight--they stayed up as long as possible, extending our flights to 20 minutes with favorable winds. 3) they speak enough English for a non-Portuguese speaker like my daughter. 4) they are extemely nice people who truly enjoy what they do. Highly recommended!! |
| Name: | Felix - Chicago, IL. U.S. |
| E-mail address: | flex0615@msn.com |
| Comments: | I contact Paulo via e-mail prior to my arrival and he was excellent with the information he gave me on the experience and booking the flight. At no point did I ever feel pushed into doing this. I was with pilot JaJao and was great the entire time. Besides being very personable he was very professional. Luckily my ride lasted 20 minutes and I loved it. I highly recommend using Just Fly when coming to Rio. You're in great hands. |
| Name: | Eugenie Rice-London |
| E-mail address: | eugeer@aol.com |
| Comments: | Monday 22/1/07.
I knew I had to Hang Glide as soon as I realised from my Lonely Planet guide that it was possible to do so in Rio. It was a truely fantastic thing to do and I would totally recommend it to anyone contemplating whether to or not. Don't come back wishing you had...Just do it!! Paulo put me totally at ease from the moment we met, making the whole experience so easy. I wasn't sure how nervous I would be-after all it's not every day you jump off a mountain! As soon as I was strapped in the harness and standing on the ramp waiting to run, my nerves disappeared totally(which I still find very odd-I really was totally calm). I put my total faith in Paulo and we belted down the ramp and the next thing we were up,up and away. The rush you get from doing this amazing and when I realised we were coming down to land I wished it could carry on for much much longer. If you are wondering should I/ shouldn't I.....dont wonder! You won't regret it. My only complaint is I wish it had been for longer :( Thanks so much Paulo-It was the highlight of my Holiday. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx |
| Name: | Ray |
| E-mail address: | chemera2002@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I flew with Paulo in January this year. A fantastic experience! |
| Name: | Amy Cardino |
| E-mail address: | amycardino@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I had the good fortune of a hang gliding experience in Rio on 15 October 2006 which is worth sharing. I’m not one of those adrenalin junkies but a mere mortal in search of an adventure with a difference overcoming, yet again, my fear of heights:
It started with a little research at our local library in Sydney and stumbled upon Paulo Celani’s “Justfly” from two of the books I borrowed. I visited his website and the comments were very encouraging so I emailed him; the response was prompt and I booked myself before my departure to a date that I could fit in from our package tour schedule, sacrificing my Petropolis tour, no regrets whatsoever. It was a Sunday and was glad that they fly even on Sundays (although I’m not sure if this is a regular thing or a concession because of my email stating the only day my tour schedule will allow). I was picked up at my hotel at 8am, right on time, and drove up midway to the Tijuco Forest National Park passing by some private mansions, to meet Paulo already waiting at a clearing with his 4W drive. My longheld dream was threatened by the light fog engulfing the hill and Paulo explained the unpredictability of how long the cloud will be hanging about and explained he will not compromise safety even though it means losing business with me. From this point on I like the guy. Even though I was nervous he probably could sense my spirit of adventure just wouldn’t let go of me. After a few jokes, he suggested we drive further up the ramp at Pedra Bonita and wait there to see if it will clear…lo and behold, it did!!! Paulo thoroughly walked me through with the safety aspects as we put on our harness suit and leg pads and instructions to take off. After a practice run before the ramp, we positioned ourselves on the ramp (the real deal) and Paulo explained where I’m attached and reassured me that it’s going to be a good one if I make a good run on the ramp. We’re off – it’s not only good, it was terrifically GREAT!!! We soared like a bird - swooped over the lush trees, homes and buildings, along the beach and out over the ocean, then turned back for our landing along the beach. The view is divine and Paulo’s humour a great company. The touchdown was just a breeze and quite a soft landing at Pepino Beach which locals call Sao Conrado. Paulo’s a real pro whom I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND if you ever do your hang gliding in Rio. He finished documenting the flight on the DVD which was attached on glider’s wing. He also dismounted his camera which took shots on air and transferred these onto a CD. Took him only a few minutes and handed them to me. His driver Carlos (also a fantastic guy), who was at Pepino Beach before our flight who radioed to Paulo if the coast is clear so to speak where he could see the clouds in perspective from below, waited for the 20-minute flight. Carlos took me back to my hotel. The cost of the flight was as agreed by email and well worth it. All in all for me, from pick up to finish was only 2 hours which gave me a chance to join some fellow travelers to go shopping at the hippie markets thereafter, courtesy of our hotel shuttle. Thanks to Paulo--I returned to Sydney in one piece enriched by the absolutely wonderful experience, which was the highlight of my Mexico, Cuba and South American tour with Captain’s Choice Australia. It’s a “must do if you’re in Rio”. So, all the testimonies, other than mine you read in this segment, I can categorically say, were accurate and a true depiction of the experience. Just read on and hop on a plane to Rio and see Paulo. |
| Name: | Ed Chong |
| E-mail address: | ed.chong@us.abb.com |
| Comments: | I would like to describe my experience with a hang gliding instructor in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in
July 2006. We were visiting Rio and my daughter wanted to try hang gliding. She is 22 years old. Through the hotel concierge, we contacted Mr. Paulo Celani who was the instructor for the Just Fly Hang Gliding Tandem Flight Company. On Jun 25, 2006, we met Paulo as arranged but were told it was not a good day to fly because of wind conditions. The following Sunday (July 02, 2006)Paulo determined that the wind conditions were favorable and my daughter hang glided with Paulo. It was the most incredible flying experience she had. There are a few things most memorable about this experience: (1) Paulo is very safety conscious. He cancelled flights and endured lost revenue in the interest of safety; (2) Paulo’s company is very well organized and he is a very experienced hang gliding instructor; (3) Paulo was very patient and thorough to explain and to prepare my daughter for the flight; the flight went very smoothly. Mr. Paulo Celani and the Just Fly Hang Gliding Tandem Flight Company can be reached as follows: (1) Cell phone: (55)-21-9985-7540, (55)-21-9798-1804 (2) Land line: (55)-21-2268-0565 (3) Email address: justfly@justfly.com.br |
| Name: | Tessa and Ning |
| E-mail address: | ningzhouonyx@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | If you are hang gliding in Rio, Paulo Celani and the Just Fly team are the
ONLY option to consider! Their unparalleled expertise, professional, accommodating and friendly nature will calm your nerves and guarantee you the best flight of your life! Paulo and Just Fly are concerned 100% with your safety first and foremost. They will wait for the perfect wind conditions, never jeopardizing any of their pilots - you! I contacted Paulo a few weeks before arriving in Rio and after several emails, my boyfriend, Paulo and I decided to fly on Friday morning. Five minutes before pickup, the wind shifted and Paulo decided it would not be safe. Leaving that afternoon for Buzios, we were not returning to Rio except to fly to Sao Paolo Sunday night. We were crushed. Paulo suggested he stay in touch and keep us updated on the weather condition for a possible flight Sunday afternoon before leaving. The weather was unpredictable all weekend and after several emails, on Sunday morning, Paulo personally drove to the take-off point to check the wind. He thought it was looking better but knowing the wind could change at any moment, Paulo presented us with the option to return early and fly; yet completely back out without penalty if it was unsafe. We decided to take a chance and throughout our 3 hour ride back to Rio, Paulo kept us updated on the wind conditions and where to meet his driver. It turned out to be the best decision we made all weekend! It was so worth leaving the beautiful sunny Buzios early and squeezing a 2 hour hang glide excursion in Rio before Paulo's driver madly rushed us to the airport. The weather was absolutely stunning and the wind was perfect. There is no better way to see the true beauty of Rio. Our instructors told us it was the best flight of the day. What an amazing experience, there's nothing more I can say. Just do it...Just Fly! |
| Name: | Cherie |
| E-mail address: | cherie_habayeb@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Flying with Paulo is such a breeze. It was such a great experience and one of the highlights of my trip to Brazil. Even before i arrived in Rio we had already been communicating back and forth, he's really very friendly, easy to talk to, and professional, he makes you feel very welcome! The first time I tried to fly, it was very cloudy. My friends and i had to wait for at least an hour at the ramp for the sky to clear, but it never did. In the end Paulo decided to fly another day since it was too risky. I trusted him completely since he knew more about this than any one of us! I am glad that i followed his advice. About a week later, i finally flew, and the weather was perfect! We were in the air for about 30 mins, which was more than i expected. I was not scared even for a bit bec i was in the hands of an expert and a professional. I highly recommend to anyone to fly with Paulo if u ever get a chance! It's such a liberating experience! |
| Name: | Kelli Smith |
| Comments: | It was a birthday gift from my fiance, Hang gliding was something I'd
talked about with my family and friends before that trip to Rio and my fiance was sweet enough to contact the man he'd read about in a magazine article he'd read before we left. His name was Paulo Celani and he was this vibrant, animated and very friendly guy that greeted us at the beach at the bottom of the mountain. It was the perfect day, sunny, breezy and very clear. Paulo and his crew drove us up the mountain making jokes and preparing us for what was coming. To get to the top and look over the city and the cliff that I was about to run and jump off of was both exciting and suicidal. He gave us a few practice runs, went over the safety issues and asked me if he could trust me to run like there was no cliff...not a problem! It was better than I'd imagined it would be, he pointed things out, took lots of great pictures and stayed up just a bit longer than usual. We landed safely and smoothly with both feet in the sand. Paulo spoke a lot about saftely and made me feel like I was his #1 priority. I will never forget this experience, it was my best birthday yet. Thanks Paulo! Kelli |
| Name: | Paul Blewitt |
| E-mail address: | pblewitt@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I thought I would tell you about our experience:
My wife and I are in our late fifties and have just returned from a super trip to Brazil which included a hang glide trip for each of us over Rio. A main reason for our trip was to enable my wife to do the hang glide. I was somewhat more apprehensive but as the time approached I too decided to hang glide. It was a great experience and became a highlight of our holiday. I used Paulo Celani of Just Fly I had read about Paulo and I was really pleased to be able to deal with him. I was able to speak in English to him, he was reassuring, we were efficiently picked up and dropped off at our hotel, little time was wasted, if he said he would ring me back at a certain time he did and most of all I came to trust his concern for us to have a safe flight. He put off two planned flights because of poor wind conditions. As a person who was a little scared, I was grateful to know that safety was Paulo’s priority. I highly recommend him to anyone. |
| Name: | Penni deCordova |
| E-mail address: | localcinnamongirl@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | Preparing for my first trip to Brazil I ran across Paulo Celani's tandem hang gliding over Rio. Now it's time to VIVA LE DOLCE! Several E-mails later our itineraries where set, he sent more great enticing pictures and vivid details of exactly what to expect. Chaos ensued and rapid departure meant not being able to go as planned. Paulo graciously said he would squeeze me in the next morning, but to be aware SAFTEY AND WEATHER CONDITIONS DICTATE all lift-offs. That weather had prevented them from flying this day, but try we shall. He said he call at9 a.m. and send his driver at 10.a.m. My noisy neibor kept me up all night and I slept through my wake-up call disoriented and recalling all my back-out excuses I ran to meet his driver. We caught up with Paulo then 4x4 up Tijuca's National Forest to the Pretty Rock. Misty fog kept the verizon from view (and fear)until we were set for take-off. Smooth, gliding lift-off and the VIEW was incredible!
Back and forth we flew until a perfect landing awaited us on Pepino Beach. Had his schedule not been booked I'd maxed out my credit cards for a day of this! Don't leave Rio without seeing it from a birds eye view, worth my entire trip and worth twice the reis! Adeus, Obrigado, Penni deCordova Nevada City, California 08/18/06 |
| Name: | Hugo Sheng |
| Comments: | Just wanted to share with you an outstanding experience I had hang gliding in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with Just Fly Hang Gliding, which is operated by Paulo Celani. Paulo and his team were nothing short of professional and courteous the entire time. They picked us up at our hotel and brought us out to the site. Instruction and safety were top notch at all times and everything was crystal clear. This was our first time Hang Gliding and while we were nervous (and scared), the experience turned out to be one of a lifetime. We definitely recommend it to anyone young or old!
|
| Name: | Connie Ignacio |
| E-mail address: | conmig@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I attended a meeting in Rio last March 2006 and the most memorable part was the hanggliding adventure with Paolo Celani's team! it was totally exhilirating and a really unique and safe experience! I would definitely do this again and longer!!! Thanks for a great experience! Paolo and his team were very friendly and yet professional at the same time. |
| Name: | Chris Green |
| E-mail address: | ambrose4@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Reflecting on an untypically wet gloomy day in Copocabana from our hotel window was a depressing scenario. It was our first day in Rio in what we had planned as the grand finale of an amazing trip. By the second day, with more of the same, abject despair had set in.
On the third day however, the gloom had lifted. The first nice day of our stay heralded a call from Paulo. "the weather was great for flying" and we were off. One hour later we were standing at the top of the mountain staring down at the beautful Pepino beach in abject terror, ironically almost wishing back the gloom so we did n't have to go through with this madness. What a crazy thought because as we sprinted down the ramp at full pelt towards the horizon you have never felt so alive. With your heart pounding and legs now running through thin air you realise "YES" We are flying!!! With the most beautiful view in the world right there infront of you, around you, below you. Incredible! My wife Kate and I loved every single exhilerating, adrenaline surging, wonderful minute of it. Without doubt the highlight of our whole trip, and the Grand Finale we had dreamed of. We would really like to thank Paulo Celani and Just Fly for giving us this opportunity. Best Regards Chris and Kate Green |
| Name: | Patrizia and River |
| E-mail address: | worldtutors@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | We flew like birds...unforgettable!!Highly recommended for everybody!! Rio de Janeiro, June 2006 |
| Name: | Henrik Westerlin |
| Comments: | Some time ago a friend and I went to Rio de Janeiro. One of our dreams became after a day or two to hang glide over this marvellous city, after standing and watching these guys down from earth and from the Christ the Redeemer.
What we had not expected was that this should be a perfect experience in all aspects: From taking the decision, laying on the Ipanema Beach until we actually was on our way, we only waited 20-25 minutes after we had called Paulo Celani from Just Fly. We were picked up at the nearest place (landmark) we were able to see from the beach. This for a start exceeded our expectations. When we drove to the meeting point, we had a nice talk with the driver, who explained us about the Just Fly and miscellaneous hang gliding statistics etc. From the meeting point we took a 4-wheel-drive to the top of the mountain (approx. 550 m. above sea level = the landing zone) where Paulo Celani met us. (Very nice nature - and the new driver knew a lot about the nature and the animals that lives in the forest we drove through). Paulo Celani and his crew made us feel very welcome and gave us a good and thorough introduction to the techniques of hang gliding. Everything seemed easy and we both felt safe, considering that we would put our lives in their hands. :o) We got an offer of being recorded on a DVD disc, and again the professionalism and quality was outstanding. The DVD gives a possibility of never forgetting this experience. And as a bonus - which also shows the professionalism - Paulo actually have a guy standing on the ground who takes exceptionally good digital photos, which are send to your email address. The ride in it self is without comparison. You are flying over the southern part of Rio with a magnificent view over the cliffs, the city and last but not least with the perfect view over the sea! You land on the beach in perfect style and while you are digesting the experience in peace with an Água de coco, Paulo Celani is finalizing the DVD and the analogue pictures taken before, under and after the flight. If you are good at bargaining - it is possible to get a small discount, but don't expect a cheap trip. But after the flight - you don't worry about the money! :o) IF you ever get the chance to check out the hang gliding possibilities in Rio de Janeiro. Then you definitely should try Just Fly. The contact information is: +55 21 9985-7540, +55 21 9798-1804, +55 21 2268-0565, justfly@justfly.com.br and www.justfly.com.br. Best regards Henrik |
| Name: | Anita, Norway |
| Comments: | Last week I returned from Brazil, and some of the days in this wonderful contry was spent in Rio de Janeiro. Before we went to Brazil we decided to go hang-gliding, and found Just Fly on the Internet. Paulo Celani was contacted by mail, and we soon got an informative answer from him. Date, time and place for pick-up in Rio was arranged.
The day for the hang-gliding-project arrived, and Paulo Celani called us at the hotel. Soon after we were picked up, and after approx. an hour or so we were at the Pedra Bonita Ramp in the Tijuca Forrest. Here we met the instructors that were going to take us flying. After being safely "tied up", and informed of what lied ahead, we practiced the running before the take-off. There were no tripping, so the countdown to take-off could begin. On top of the ramp, with a sligthly rasied pulse, we started run at the "GO!"! Next thing I new - I was flying! My feet hanging loose, the wind in my hair and a fabulous view over the forrest, beach/sea and the city. The feeling of flying can hardly compare to anything else! Only bad thing was, I got sand under my feets much too early :) The landing on the SăoConrado Beach was very soft and controlled. I have only good things to say about the way the hang-gliding was organized; the instructors were calm and forthcoming, new equipment and safety was prioritized. Just Fly/Paulo has my very best recommendations! Thanks for giving me a memory for life! |
| Name: | Pratyoosh |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.pratyoosh.com |
| Comments: | I really enjoyed the hang gliding, highly recommended. They were super nice and professional! Thanks Paolo and others.
my only concern is the picture I bought from you - the film camera attached to the wings did not do a very good job. I think an inexpensive digital camera can take much better pictures... something to improve! thanks again! |
| Name: | James Temple |
| E-mail address: | jtemple@cctimes.com |
| Comments: | Posted on Sun, Jan. 23, 2005
Contra Costa Times A dread badge of courage Goaded by pals, he takes a flying leap in Rio By James Temple RIO DE JANEIRO I GLIMPSED the spotless sky through the hotel window and pictured the sun-kissed bodies amassing on the white sand beach outside, so naturally I spent my last morning in Rio de Janeiro pacing the dull brown carpet in my room. At any moment a taxi would arrive to drive me to Pedra Bonita -- a 692-meter-high mountain from which I was planning to jump. For the sake of journalistic accuracy, I should mention here that a hang glider would be involved, but at the time it seemed a fine distinction: I was going to take a running leap off a 2,270-foot cliff strapped to, roughly, Shaquille O'Neal's childhood kite. Hang gliding over Rio was the less-than-luminous idea of my traveling companion Chris Kozup, a longtime but at that point not necessarily long-term friend. "We have to do it," he had insisted excitedly over the phone a month before our flight to Rio, about three weeks and six days before I would have cracked open a guidebook to equip myself with counterproposals. Thousands of miles away, walled in on three sides by my office cubicle, the idea had seemed abstract enough for me to grudgingly acquiesce. "It will be the experience of a lifetime," Chris had promised by way of closing the deal. With the jump-off point now a short drive away, experiencing a lifetime seemed the more compelling option. But male pride, and no small amount of peer pressure, prevented me from reneging on my decision. Take a deep breath Our other traveling cohort, Richard Ryan, a British friend who had arranged to meet us in Rio, had made it clear he was nearly as uneasy about hang gliding as I was, which made him even more insistent on my participation. I glanced at the bedside clock as it blinked to 11:30 a.m. Seconds later, the room phone rang. As we stepped out of the elevator into the lobby, the cabby caught sight of us through the glass entrance and opened the car's rear door. I suddenly recalled the warnings I had read about certain taxi drivers in Rio who, apparently unsatisfied with tips earned by merely carting tourists to and from the city's landmarks, would opt to abduct them for ransom instead. Such a scenario would confer an airtight out for the afternoon's plans. I took a moment to weigh the relative risks, and entered the cab a tad hopeful. Carpe diem The door slammed and we sped west toward the twin-peaked granite cliff that punctuates Rio's frowning crescent of white southern beaches -- Arpoador, Ipanema, Leblon. Clouds had blanketed the southern edge of Rio for much of our weeklong stay, but today they were tucked behind the hills. The beaches were teeming with intimidatingly fit men and women wearing severely skimpy swim wear. Given my interest in the customs of other countries, I surveyed these scenes closely. As the sand gave way to stone cliffs we continued along the winding ocean road, past the upscale Sheraton Hotel as well as Rocinha, one of Rio's largest favelas or slums. When we reached Pepino, an isolated beach, something caught my eye from above. Dozens of hang gliders navigating wide pirouettes filled the sky, their colorful sails set off against the dark gray backdrop of the aptly, if unoriginally, named Pedra Bonita (Beautiful Rock). Lush green trees ringed the lower half of the mountain, until the pitch shifted sharply. Clouds mingled with the gray walls at the mountain's highest points, as did hang gliders. In truth, it was beautiful, as far as rocks go. But any awe was quickly squashed by a renewed fear as it registered that the hang gliders at Pedra Bonita hovered more than 2,000 feet above rocks and trees, at least 10 times higher than I had expected. I noted this aloud. "If you fall from 200 feet or 2,000, the result's pretty much the same," Chris said by way of comforting me. His attempt failed. But as our cab pulled up before the Rio Hang-Gliding Association office, I noticed a bumper sticker on the car before us reading, "Carpe Diem." "Yes," I said to myself, hoping desperately the sentiment would take. "Seize the day. Live life. Don't let fear dictate your destiny!" I straightened my spine as I stepped out of the cab. Our hang-gliding guide, Ricardo Hamond, stepped forward and introduced himself. I said hello in a gregarious tone and shook his hand firmly. As he led us into the single-story building, I crossed the doorsill in a confident stride -- head high, shoulders back. The receptionist handed me a sheet of paper absolving the guide, association and country of any responsibility in the event of my death, paralysis or dismemberment. I slumped forward and signed it. A chat with God When booking the hang-gliding trip over the phone, Chris had asked, at my insistence, whether hang gliding was safe. "We've done tours for 14 years and no problems," the tour operator had replied. Now, as my legs fidgeted in the back seat of Ricardo's two-door black hatchback, 14 years sounded more like a streak of luck that had gone on perilously long. Ricardo, however, was in good spirits. As he drove us up a steep street enshrouded in heavy forest, honking but not decelerating as he took blind curves, he informed us that we had picked a great day for hang gliding; a perfect combination of sun and wind. "We ask God for days like this," he said, his hand riding the horn as he shot a smile toward the back seat. "Yeah, I'll be praying to God too," Richard replied. Do and/or die "Who's first?" asked a dark-haired man with a broken-toothed smile when we arrived at the launch spot, an opening in the woods punctuated by a green wooden ramp that descended into the sky. This was Paulo Celani, founder of the "Just Fly" hang-gliding tour featured in most Rio guidebooks. Richard and Chris turned around in sync and pointed at me. I had told them days earlier that I wanted to be first, lest I wait around and lose my nerve. But I already had. Paulo, with whom I would be flying tandem, carefully walked me through the instructions. After pulling a potato-sacklike pouch over my torso and squeezing on a helmet, we practiced our takeoff. The only thing I had to do was run -- and run hard -- down the ramp. If I slowed down or stopped, it seems, we would tumble over the edge and, well, test the dubious utility of those helmets. "The fear should make you run," Paulo said. "The only danger is not running." We stepped onto the platform. "Look up on the horizon," he said. "Don't look down." My eyelids were already squeezed shut. My heart was whomping against my ribs. Someone had filled my helmet with salt water. "Carpe diem," I whispered. Paulo said something in Portuguese. "Uh, be sure to say 'go' in English," I squeaked. My 13-year-old voice had dropped in unexpectedly. Paulo smiled easily. Tightened a strap. Loosened another. Glanced at the windsock. "Ready ... Set ... GO!" Superman The fear did make me run. I pumped with everything I had. My legs swung out from under me. A wall of wet wind collided against my face. Pressed the skin tight. Whistled past my ears. I opened my eyes. Fear was instantly replaced by exhilaration. Strapped to that hang glider, lying horizontal and looking down, I felt like I was flying. I'll admit it -- an image from "Superman" flashed in my head. There was no metal cockpit, no balloon and basket, nothing between me and the world below. Except the wind. My idyllic moment ended as the wind dropped out momentarily and we ... well, fell. I couldn't gauge the precise extent of our plunge, but I think I can safely say it spanned at least four or five miles. Once we stabilized, which is to say two seconds later, Paulo assured me laughingly, "It's common, no big deal." But my fantasy was over. I was on my guard again, only too aware that we were floating thousands of feet above the ground, with nothing between me and the world below. We wound around in a wide arc. To the right were the beaches and the ocean beyond, the water clear enough that I could see patterns on its floor. The famous Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue that towers over Rio was in front of us, miles away but not perceptibly higher. I expected hang gliding to feel like a gradual fall, the sail merely offering resistance like a parachute. But we continued to wind around at the same level and I noticed many hang gliders were levitating well above the ramp. I would later learn that gliders are pushed upward through "ridge lift," which occurs when wind hits a barrier -- say Pedra Bonita -- and is deflected upward. Getting loopy Paulo asked if I wanted to try a maneuver, something he called a "loop-da-loop," and before I knew it he was dipping the wings until the wind no longer caught, which meant we were tumbling toward the earth out of control at increasing speed. I squeezed his shoulder and emitted a squeal -- though a most masculine one, I can assure you. "I can tell you are very sensitive," Paulo said. After that, we continued to soar in wide circles, from above the ocean to above the trees and edging lower with each pass. Turning parallel to Pepino Beach, Paulo unhooked my legs and provided landing instructions. "Don't run until you feel your feet hit the ground," he said. But as we descended we did not decelerate -- we sped up. I gaped at Paulo, wondering if he realized that there was no way I could run that fast. But as we neared the ground, I dutifully engaged my feet. I felt my boots scrape the sand twice when, suddenly, Paulo steered us straight up. We sailed back into the sky -- climbing 10, 15, 20 feet -- until we exhausted our momentum and drifted back to the ground. 'Gentle, gentle' After Chris and Richard had landed from their flights, the three of us sat at an umbrella-shaded table on the cement-and-stone path bordering the beach. Over sodas from a stand, we each rehashed our experience. Chris proudly proclaimed that he couldn't get enough of the loop-da-loops. He also only-too-eagerly shared that Paulo had told him that his friend -- me -- had been very scared during the maneuver. But Richard's pride suffered as well, I was pleased to learn. He had been admonished by Ricardo when his grip had become too tight on the guide's shoulder. "Gentle, gentle," Richard said he had been told. I was even more gratified to learn, a few evenings and beers later, that on landing, Richard had run to the nearest trash can to throw up. He attributed it to a hangover from the night before. Colorful flag of courage After taking apart the hang gliders and strapping them to the car, Paulo sat down and waited with us for our cab. Looking up at the sky full of hang gliders, he mentioned with a trace of envy that some were taking advantage of the day's ideal conditions to wind up as high as possible to make their way to and around the Christ statue. "Have you ever done it?" Chris asked. "I had a chance once," Paulo said, "but I only have a tandem glider and the client on that day didn't want to go." "He was maybe like you," he added, nodding toward me with a wry smile. I laughed along, unconcerned. Bravery, I thought, isn't not being afraid, but doing something in spite of being afraid. I had pulled it off, had conquered my fears and was feeling quite courageous. Even a bit, dare I say, macho. Of course, when the taxi arrived, those kidnapping stories started running through my mind again. James Temple is a Times staff writer. Reach him at 925-977-8534 or jtemple@cctimes.com. IF YOU GO Contact Just Fly in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for professional hang-gliding tours at 011-55-21-2268-0565 or www.justfly.com.br. |
| Name: | Krystle Tate |
| E-mail address: | tatey06@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I had never been hang gliding at all in my life and where better to do it for my first time then Rio. I had an experince of a life time and i will never forget the magnificent views and the guidance i had through the justfly team. |
| Name: | Collette Couper |
| E-mail address: | cmspc@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Ola! My husband and I chose to vacation in Rio to celebrate New Years '2006. I have always thought about going hang gliding and why not bring in the new year by living out your dreams. We had been referred to use Just Fly for their professionalism and exceptional service (providing transportation, education and friendly staff). Just Fly made our experience a memorable and fun time. Thank you Paulo, Marco and all!
Collette Couper |
| Name: | Dan Pridgen |
| E-mail address: | LazyRiverMan@aol.com |
| Comments: | This is my 2nd post to this guestbook (see July 30, 2005). I could not resist the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit Rio again for the free Copacabana Rolling Stones concert on 2/18. While it was as fantastic as I had imagined, flying with Paulo again was just as memorable. I flew both times with Hernaldo -- one of Paulo's fabulous pilots -- and could not possibly be happier with the level of professionalism exhibited. With literally tens of thousands of safe flights between Paulo and his staff, safety is ALWAYS the first order of business. A close second, however, is the very genuine effort made to INSURE you have not only a GREAT FLIGHT but also have GREAT FUN in the process. You are made to feel a very important guest -- not just another customer!
Having had the good fortune to twice meet and talk with Paulo as well as to exchange Emails, I have no hesitancy whatsoever in referring to Paulo as "my friend from Rio." Since I gave a 10+ in July, I'll have to give an A+ this time so as not to be repetitive. Same thing! You simply couldn't ask for a safer, more friendly, or better organized outfit than Paulo's to offer you the experience of FLYING. Don't settle for those dreams everyone has about flying. Contact Paulo and get the REAL THING. Once again, let me say that I welcome and enjoy answering inquiries to my Email address -- you can be assured you'll get a reply. After two flights I feel confident I can answer any "nuts & bolts" questions you may have. I don't know your feelings on this, but I always prefer FIRST HAND opinions. Dan Pridgen Mullins, South Carolina USA |
| Name: | Aaron Borja |
| E-mail address: | aborja7@charter.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.justfly.com |
| Comments: | I travelled alone to South America for two weeks in January of this year. I picked up the latest edition of Lonely Planet where I found information about Paolo Celini at justfly.com. Paolo is a true professional. We spoke on the phone while I was in Argentina regarding weather condition, which were not favorable for flying. During my four day stay in Rio, I contacted him regarding condition. We had to cancel on my original scheduled date because of bad conditions. I found out by talking to him that less reputable companies might take you flying regardless of weather condition. Luckily for me on the final full day of my stay in Rio we had good conditions! Paolo picked me up from my hotel (along with two friends I met during my trip Angelica and Gideon) and we sped through the streets of Rio in true adventure form. Paolo was getting updates via cell phone for weather conditions along the way. We ascended into the lush hills above Rio to prepare for the flight. My flight was amazing and the views of Rio were awesome! I highly recommend Paolo Celini of justfly.com for your hang gliding adventure experience in Rio. Obrigado Paolo! |
| Name: | Jason |
| E-mail address: | gw2vt@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | A couple of years ago, my wife and I were watching an episode of The Amazing Race which featured hang gliding over Rio. Knowing my keen fear of heights, I suggested, if we´re ever in Rio, I´d do that. Well, my adrenaline-junkie wife held me to it, and am I ever glad she did!
We flew with Paulo this morning (19 Jan 2006) and had one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Paolo makes it SO EASY! He calmed my nerves and I trust him 100%. He is completely professional, reliable, responsible (and all those other good words). THe flight itself was breathtaking. Your trip to Rio would not be complete without experiencing a vantage unlike no other. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Obigado Paulo! Tchau! |
| Name: | Adam |
| E-mail address: | masteradam_sb@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I went hang gliding with Paulo in November 2005 and it was one the most memorable things I've ever done. Paulo was excellent - he explains everything, is very experienced and always professional which makes you feel safe and enjoy the jump that much more. The jump itself is exhilarating. The views are breathe taking and you feel completel free up in the air. I would recommend this to anyone making a stop in Rio, the trip would not have been the same had I not gone.
Adam |
| Name: | Debbie Schilling |
| E-mail address: | debbie@bundlings.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.bundlings.com |
| Comments: | My husband and I flew on November 27 and had a better time than we could have imagined. Paulo and his crew are friendly, efficient, professional, and great to fly with. We felt completely safe at all times. We highly recommend Just Fly Brazil!
Here are some photos of our experience: http://www.bundlings.com/rio4.htm |
| Name: | Mark Rose |
| E-mail address: | goodskills@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: | Well....what can I say?! It has to be the one of the most incredible experiences of my life!!
I 'flew' with Chico who was extremely professional at all stages - from being picked-up from the beach, to the safety talk, take-off practice, and the flight itself. I have just had the photos developed from the wing-tip camera and I can confirm that they are well worth the money spent. I can't recommend this once in a lifetime experience highly enough.....you have to do it!! Good Skills! ;-) Mark. |
| Name: | Carola Horstmann |
| E-mail address: | roli2@gmx.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.spaceclear.net |
| Comments: | Hi!
There's not much to add, when you've read all these enthused comments. I enjoyed not only the flight, but also the prompt and professional handling of my VERY short-term request, the perfectly safe and experienced way everything was organized and last-not-least having contact to some really hearty Brazilians! Thanks to all of you - Paulo & the staff. Carola |
| Name: | Dan Pridgen |
| E-mail address: | LazyRiverMan@aol.com |
| Comments: | It took 3 visits to Rio to get up the nerve, but we finally "flew" off Pedra Bonita. All four of us are over (well over) 50 but Paulo made everything feel so "just right." Our friend Debbie has an extreme fear of heights and NO ONE believed she would ever do this. She went off screamimg like a drunken banshee but had the experience of her life. Her husband, Mark, got "credit" for the worst takeoff in memory (he stumbled on the ramp) but had a great flight thanks to the VERY professional and capable recovery of his pilot. Peeling off 500 reais for this experience was somewhat daunting to Sue and me as avowed budget travelers, but it was money VERY WELL SPENT. Sue had the added pleasure of flying with Paulo -- he's quite a charmer and a great practical joker. If you're considering this experience on your visit to Rio, we all give Paulo & staff a 10+ for skill level, safety, and making us all feel confident. Don't DARE "cheap out" and skip buying the roll of film taken of you in flight by the wing tip camera. You won't regret it. If you have any specific questions, I love to communicate and will be more than happy to reply to your questions with a "real guy" perspective.
Dan Pridgen Mullins, SC |
| Name: | Bonnie Nice |
| E-mail address: | dougnice@msn.com |
| Comments: | My husband and I were in South America this past March. Before leaving for our trip I e-mailed Paulo many times with questions and he always responded back promptly. He runs a well organized and professional business and safety is his first priority. The hang gliding experience was wonderful. It provided us with a spectacular view and was the highlight from our trip. The roll of film that was given to us was well worth the price. Some of the best pictures from the trip were taken from the wing of the hang glider. My husband and I would highly recommend Paulo for a safe and fun experience of hang gliding. |
| Name: | Maria & Lynn Watkins |
| E-mail address: | magickfeet@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I want to thank you so much for the incredible experience of flying, and for your wonderfully open heart and kindness throughout the process, from my very first email. There is not a time in my life when I haven't wanted to fly and dreamed of flying, so for me this was a long time coming! Flying was the most amazing experience and neither one of us can wait to do it again! It is so peaceful and perfect and beautiful, it is the perfect space - nothingness and everything in perfect unity. Stillness. ! I'm amazed that human beings don't have wings! It was a life changing experience for both of us and we couldn't have had it better than to have had it with you and Marco - good spirits! Thank you so much, from the depths of my heart! |
| Name: | liv&kai dyrkorn |
| E-mail address: | omokai@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | My wife and I have just completed a "grand tour" of South
America, trying to catch as many high-lights as possible- (Culture-nature-people-you name it). Though not being particularly "macho" ( A 67-year old Norwegian of average phaysical ability and interest) I must admit that the two most memorable events were bicycling down "the most dangerous road in the world" in Bolivia -- and hang-gliding with Paulo Celanis team in Rio. But the latter stunt (more gliding than hanging!) was as smooth, comfortable,strain- free and relaxing as the bicycling was the opposite. -That is after the initial 3-sec. adrenaline kick of going over the top is beyond and above you. That is also why my wife catecorically refused to join me in Bolivia, while she enthusiastically plunged ahead of me over the brink with Paulo. Lots of other people with greater command of the English language have expressed their emotions during the flight. We also felt awe, peace and delight in hovering silently over the green hills, interspersing favelas and surfing beaches of the "cidade maravilhosa". How fantastic to succeed in bird-imitation in these surroundings when Icarus and Leonardo da Vinci had failed. We will also express gratitude for the caring and professionalism of the whole team. Of course they have a job to do and do this for a living.But in addition it really seemed to matter for them that we appreciated the hang-gliding experience--almost as a life-style.And here Paulo and his team succeeded supremely. We have become devout members of the congregation! Well,to be serious: Paulo and his "Just flyers" gave us the crowning experience in a city with a lot of possibilities for happy memories. By a coincidence the name of the Brazilian state air-line VARIG in Norwegian means permanent.We will keep happy "varig" memories and say to others: Just do it! We also hope that time, health and money will give us another chance.Hoping this we say to Paulo and the team: FOI OTIMA- ATE LOGO ! Atenciosamente : Liv& Kai Dyrkorn. Kragerř. Norway. |
| Name: | Edison |
| Comments: | Paulo is the best person to go with for hang gliding in Rio. Even my 50+ year old mother went. Without doubt his services are excellent. If you have any doubts about safety, don't worry. These guys have been checked out by CBS and were used by Amazing Race. I have only good things to say about Paulo and his team. |
| Name: | Vanina Coudriet |
| E-mail address: | vaninacoudriet@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Hang gliding has been my dream for the longest time and I finally had a chance to make this dream a reality! Just Fly was awesome, I would recommend it to everyone. The views were spectacular, and the excitment without comparison. Furthermore, the team is very professional and personal at the same time. If you'd like to feel like a bird, visit www.justfly.com.br and don't leave Rio without experiencing tandem hang gliding with Paulo Celani and his team! |
| Name: | Matt Oppenheim |
| E-mail address: | matt.oppenheim@gmail.com |
| Comments: | The highpoint (!) of my stay. An exhilerating experience. Extrememly competent and safety concious crew. Give it a go - you'll thank yourself for it. |
| Name: | James |
| E-mail address: | jimi444@aol.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.burdweiser.com |
| Comments: | This is a MUST do event while you are in Rio. 80$ is not much to do some hang gliding. The whole flight was very smooth. The instructors are very good. Paulo can also hook you up with a driver to take you around the city. Our driver (Carlos) was excellent. We got more than just a great hang gliding experience, we got a good driver to show us around the city, and it was a lesser price that what we would have paid at the hotel. Why get on the tours buses, wait on others and wait in lines when you can have your own driver!
Email the guys at Just Fly before your trip and setup a tour with them. I would definatly use them next time in Rio! James Houston, Texas. USA |
| Name: | alon |
| E-mail address: | proxyalon@rosenfeld.tv |
| Comments: | I recently hang glided with Chico. If you love landscape and scenery, this is a must. The technicality of flying in tandem cannot be simpler. After a few minutes of training, you are ready to fly. The whole experience, from the time you are picked up at the hotel, was very pleasant and worry-free – they take care of everything. I am definitely going back to Rio and for sure will hook up with Paulo's team to hang glide again.
just do it. |
| Name: | Alessandro |
| E-mail address: | proxy@tomassetti.tv |
| Comments: | This is for anyone unsure about hang gliding over Rio:
I went up the mountain thinking that I woudln't be able to participate because of a shoulder injury and I flew down the moutain feeling like I could accomplish anything. Paolo and his crew (including the amazing pilot, Maurillo) are incredibly professional and genuinely want you to have a safe, exhilarating experience. The instant you leave the runway,you realize how many opportunities in life you may have been too frightened to pursue and how incredible the rewards can be. I had the most amazing time on my flight and I encourage anyone with doubts to trust these guys and take the leap. |
| Name: | Dave |
| E-mail address: | daveg@tenet.com |
| Comments: | Good day! I've recently come back from a two week stay in Rio. Rio de Janeiro - The City of January evokes thoughts and images of music, mystery, passion and excitement. Certainly the most exciting time I had in Rio was Hang Gliding.
One phone call to the Just Fly services and they took it from there. Just Fly provides on time pickup from your hotel or apartment and whisks you to the sandy beach where you get to preview your experience. I would suggest sipping on a fresh coconut and relaxing before the next part of the journey! The instructor then meets you and drives you up to the top of the mountain (approximately 575 metres) and instructs you on what to do and what you will experience. Then you both strap into the glider for the experience of a lifetime. Depending on your weight, take off and wind conditions, your flight may last between twenty to thirty breathtaking minutes as you fly over the mountains, forests and beaches. The price is extremely reasonable and my instructor Paulo Celani was incredible. His ability to instill confidence is on par with the best "Life Coaches". I would strongly suggest calling 1-2 days ahead of when you want to fly and make sure you leave a contact phone number in case the weather conditions change which may alter your flight time. Paulo, you helped me experience one of the greatest adventures I've ever had. Many thanks! |
| Name: | Martin & Kay |
| E-mail address: | kay_tivey@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | We've just got back from Brazil & had an amazing time. Paulo certainly looks after you. Martin got to fly the first time we went up but the weather changed suddenly & I didn't get to go till my third attempt. This was purely because Paulo didn't trust the weather conditions and safety is definitely a first where he is concerned.
I'm so pleased that we chose to go with Just Fly. Paulo managed to calm my fears and give me a wonderful smooth flight. He even let Martin fly again at a discount because his first flight was so short. I'd definitely recommend 'Just Fly' as Paulo was professional, careful and friendly. He even looked after me when I got air sick during the flight! :-) Thanks for a wonderful flight Paulo. Best wishes to you. |
| Name: | Joelle Purvis Allen |
| E-mail address: | joelle@allenevents.com |
| Comments: | I own an Event Planning Agency in the States. Over my 12-year career as an event planner, I have been involved in hundreds and hundreds of event activities and this now ranks in my top 5. In my profession, we are always looking for enjoyable activities for our clients and most importantly, reliable service providers who are key to making sure that the activities fly without a hitch. Just Fly Rio is one of these "lucky-to-find" providers where the customer service was nothing short of exceptional.
We spent September 3-5 on a site visit tour in Rio and including tandem hang gliding as part of our trip. Head of Just Fly Rio, Paulo Celani, took care of everything. The first day we arrived it was too windy to fly - Paulo called us early that morning and let us know that this might be the case and that safety was his first priority. He then followed up with us later that day as he promised, to let us know that we wouldn't be able to fly - but he would call us in the morning at 9:00AM. Paulo called at 8:59!!! As an event planner, being on time, keeping participants well informed, and living up to promises is paramount to keeping an event on course. Happily for us, it was a perfect day and at the appointed time, a cab was waiting for us outside the lobby of our hotel room. When we arrived we were warmly greeted and taken to the platform for our activity. I don't know if you've ever gone hang gliding - but this was my first time. As soon as I got up there, I immediately thought, "WHAT THE HECK AM I DOING!!! Sensing this, Paulo very calmly went over the precautions, talked about the view, and really made me feel as safe as any will ever feel staring down a 1,700 foot drop for the first time. I am not sure if it was a gust of courage or temporary insanity - but when Paulo said "ready?" I said yes - and we were air born. Once the initial shock wore off - my anxiety turned to amazement - what a beautiful and exciting experience! As an Event Planner - I would recommend Just Fly Rio to anyone without hesitation! In addition to being certified by the Brazilian Hang Gliding Association, they are fully insured and have almost 2 decades of experience. The friendly and professional instructors have a true passion for what they are doing and to top it off - the experience was very reasonably priced. I can't begin to describe how incredible it is to see Rio from this vantage point. I have added it to my "Must Do's" for any group or individual who visits Rio. See The Christ, see Sugarloaf, and Just Fly Rio! |
| Name: | David Ashe |
| Comments: | I flew with Paulo last week. Even though the weather was not very good, Paulo offered to drive up with me in case it got better. Before meeting him, I confess that I thought he would take me flying regardless of the conditions to "make a buck", so I went up a little nervous.
I was wrong. As soon as I met Paulo he struck me as 100% professional, telling me that most likely we would NOT be able to fly that day. His behavior in checking the winds and weather conditions evidenced his total respect for the dangers inherent in this sport. I was totally confident that Paulo puts SAFETY FIRST, and is completely willing to scratch a flight if anything is even slightly off. That, dear fellow adventurers, is the true sign of a real pilot. Remember, there are old pilots, and there are bold pilots... but there are NO old, bold pilots! In any case, the wind improved, the weather held, and we were able to fly that day. What a glorious feeling, what a tremendous view. I only wish I would have had more time to fly again, and again. Having flown small planes for a long time, let me tell you this is a NEW experience. Imagine the difference between driving a car and riding a motorcycle, only with an added dimension! Just do it, and do it with Paulo. You will be in good hands. |
| Name: | Don Ismail Allan, from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. |
| E-mail address: | sow_allan@consultant.com |
| Comments: | I couldn't believe that I actually made it to Rio (after a 24 hour flight; 3 countries; 7 airports!). And to fly over the city is simply awesome. Thanks guys (Paulo & Chico)... I'll definitely visit samba-land again.
By the way, I've already started recommending you guys. |
| Name: | Toby Gethin |
| E-mail address: | t.gethin@uea.ac.uk |
| Comments: | I have just flown with Paulo today (October 5th 2004), and I want to send him the biggest thanks I can!
I had never done handgliding before, but it was such a wicked experience. Anyone who has thought about trying something like this, should do in Rio, with Paulo! I think Paulo is a true professional, loves what he does, and on top of that, is a really nice guy as well! I really recommend Justfly, and would certainly recommend it to all of my friends if they ever come to Rio! If you do go, make sure you get the photos he takes with his camera on the glider - I just got mine developed, and they are brilliant! Thanks again Paulo - and be warned, if I come back, I definately want to go again! |
| Name: | andre |
| E-mail address: | andre2005@webmail.co.za |
| Comments: | Hi
I spent a few days in Rio De Janeiro in August which was wonderful however,my hang gliding day will most surely remain the HIGH light of my stay in Rio so i just would like to say Muito Obrigado to everybody involved at Just Fly as it is highly appreciated by me and well recommended. Thank You Andre Phillips Cape Town,South Africa |
| Name: | ringo lee |
| E-mail address: | ringoSF@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | After my last post, I have been communicating with Paulo through the emails. In his replies, Paulo was very sincere and apologetic for what happened to me that day. Now, I think back, Paulo was very busy that day because of the wind conditions, he might have overlooked something, maybe I should no be so critical of him. But I still insisted Ricardo was not nice or friendly, and suggested him to get the customer feedback for the instructors he hires. He told me he will follow my suggestion.
After the emails back and forth between us, I think Paulo does care about his customers and is working hard to correct any mistakes. I will have confidence to fly with him again if I go back to Rio. Thanks Paulo, I wish you best luck! |
| Name: | Moona Alidoost |
| Comments: | I went hang gliding with Paulo this August and it was one of the highlights of my trip to Brazil. Paulo and his team were really friendly and professional and the whole process was well organized. It was an incredible experience running off the mountain and gliding down to the beach below. Also you can get beautiful photos taken during the flight. I highly recommend Just Fly to anyone interested in hang gliding while in Rio. |
| Name: | ringo lee |
| E-mail address: | ringoSF@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I was disappointed with Paulo’s service. Paulo is not that friendly or talkative; I tried a few times to have a conversions with him, but he just ignored me. I felt like a piece of meat on his assembly line, he tried to get me through as fast as possible, so he can get to the next customer. Maybe he just had a bad day, I don’t know. His pilot Ricardo is even worst. While other pilots were explaining take off and landing in details with their customers, Ricardo said only a few words to me, he even got impatient when I didn’t understand the things he asked me to do.
I will not flight with Paulo’s company again nor recommend him to anyone. Brazilians are nice and friendly people in general, but they are not in Paulo’s company… I will also post my comments on other websites, so people will not make the wrong decision. Ringo |
| Name: | Ryan Adams |
| E-mail address: | radams18@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | After meeting a friend from Brasil who eventualy became my room mate in Atlanta, Georgia, he showed me a home video of his AZA Delta experience in Rio. After watching that video a couple years ago, I realized that I HAD to do something like that. So the time came, I applied for my Brasilian visa and I just flew on August 11th 2004. It was the best experince in my short extreme sport career and I will be back soon. Real soon. Thanks Paulo. |
| Name: | Sherman Lee |
| Comments: | I was so looking forward to hanggliding after my friends did it last year. After reading all these other testimonials in this forum, I finally get to experience the thrill of flying this July. I can truly attest that Paulo and his professional team are indeed the people to call and fly with when you are in Rio. From picking up at the hotel, to preparation for the flight, to the actual flying session, every step is executed with perfection and safety is their paramount concern. You will be tremendously rewarded with breath-taking scenary-filled journey in the air after your take off run of faith! |
| Name: | Gary Mauer |
| Comments: | I left my heart in Rio! Somewhere between the launch ramp on the summit of Pedra Bonita and the soft white sands on the beach below. To say that flying with Paulo Celani was the highlight of my trip is a huge understatement. It will long be a highlight of my life. I am a professional singer and actor, and I came to Rio to bring a little Broadway music to the wonderful people of Brazil in a concert with the Symphony Orchestra, and I am now travelling the USA as the Phantom in "The Phantom of the Opera". I have had some incredible experiences in my life-- but none to equal the thrill of flying over the forests and beaches of Rio with Paulo. He provided me with memories of a lifetime. I flew eight times with Paulo and Kirash and the friendships were even better than the flights!! What wonderful people! It is so evident that they care so much about safety, hospitality, and professionalism. They truly love what they do and they love to share it with others! The jeep tour through the Tijuca Forest was incredible, and hiking up the backside of Sugarloaf was amazing- I still can't believe we did that!! Don't go to Rio without spending the time of your life with Paulo Celani and friends! I am already planning my next trip- but this time I am bringing my wife and kids. Thank you- Thank you- Thank you |
| Name: | Hilary Herscher |
| Comments: | The highlight of our weekend in Rio! Impossible to imagine how spectacular it is to glide over the rio coast line - So easy and so much fun and mot even a hint of vertigo! Thanks Paulo for showing us such a good time and keeping us safe as well. |
| Name: | jonny cocking |
| E-mail address: | jonny@makeme.tv |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.makeme.tv |
| Comments: | You want to do this!!!! and Paulo is the man. He is a top professional who loves his work. It is truly amazing and what a city to hand glide in. Come to Rio then ring Paulo
thanks so much jonny |
| Name: | Dana K. |
| Comments: | My husband and 2 friends went hand gilding with Paulo on May 8th, 2004 and had the time of their lives! Paulo was professional, made everyone feel comfortable and above all is a great guide! I regret not going, however, my extreme fear of hights paralyzed me from taking the leap. Next time we go back to Rio, hopefully I'll be able to fly.
I highly recomend the open jeep tour to the Tijuca Forest. Our guide was knowledgable and we had a blast! We went hiking, saw a few waterfalls and went into a bat cave. This is a must for all who visit Rio. |
| Name: | Ros Spiers-King |
| Comments: | My name is Ros Spiers-King and I was fortunate to take two groups of people to go hang gliding with Paulo and his gang in Rio....and I just wanted to pass on this info so that others can enjoy it too.....
The justfly experience was one of the most thrilling and memorable moments of my life. The instuctors are fantastic, very professional but also very friendly, they immediately put you at ease so you can enjoy the time but you still feel very safe. And as for the views......wow is the only word that can come from you as it is quite literally breathtaking! To stand on the ramp at Pedra Bonita and know that in a few minutes you are going to be a part of what you can see happening below is thrilling and then when you are gliding it is oddly peaceful and you feel just like one of the birds that are flying with you as you circle over the land below taking in such sights as Sugar Loaf Mountain and also the Christ Statue on Corcovado. I cannot reccomend the justfly experience highly enough it is a truly spectacular experience that will stay as one of my most special memories. I had the time of my life and took some of the most amazing pictures and felt so relaxed and yet so excited at the same time. To anyone looking for a thrilling yet peaceful and very different way to see Rio then I whole heartedly tell them to go to see Paulo Celani and the justfly guys and be prepared to be....well just be prepared to have you breath taken away!!! |
| Name: | Ashan (New York) |
| E-mail address: | Ashan.Khan@mecglobal.com |
| Comments: | Hang gliding was "off the hoook"!!!!
An amazing experience, all you have to do is run and after that you're just relaxing enjoying it all. It feels so Free; just flying and realizing how high you are, the views are beautiful and Paulo and his team are exceptional! They are extremely professional and make you feel very comfortable and relaxed for the flight. I definitely recommend flying with them and next time I'm in Rio I'm going back for another flight!!! Thanks Paulo, Ashan |
| Name: | Boo and Bobby Young |
| E-mail address: | steelpaintingcorporation@netzero.com |
| Comments: | Paulo and Bruno made my special Birthday trip to Rio go down in the Young family history books as a trip to remember. We learned of the opportunity while watching a reality TV show called "Amazing Race". When researching the things to do, I chose the Lonely Planet guide which mentioned JustFly and Paulo to be the hang-gliding experts. We couldn't wait, we arrived on a Thursday morning and by the time we caught up with our sleep after our 11 hour flight, we were picked up at the hotel and delivered into the fine hands and care of Paulo. After a few practice runs, we took to the sky. Paulo couldn't be more professional - he explained exactly what we'd be doing and throughout the journey pointed out some interesting facts about the country. I'm sure we had the most perfect landing in the whole history of JustFly, it was like landing on a puffy cloud! What a way to remember a birthday - we had so much fun, we took another flight the last day of our trip. I would do this again with Paulo in a heartbeat!!! I look forward to venturing down to Rio again in the future for the purpose of hang-gliding. I'm telling all my friends at American Airlines to call Paulo for the most memorable time in RIO!!
Thank you Paulo, we've already developed the pictures and we've framed them at our home so we can remember you everyday. The experience was totally awesome. |
| Name: | marc brezina |
| E-mail address: | marc.brezina@ge.com |
| Comments: | I had the Lonely Planet (LP) guide to Rio De Janeiro for my trip to Rio in February-March 2004. While in Rio, I wanted to try hang gliding for the 1st time... so I used the Hang Gliding company: Just Fly, with owner Paulo Celani (9985-7540), as recommended by the LP. I would like to highly recommend this company to any person (interested in ASA Delta) who travels to RJ. My hang gliding experience was amazing! Paulo arranged for our transporation to and from our hotel, he also wanted us to enjoy our flight so he told us how long our flight would be and what to expect. He was also very efficient--we did not have to wait to fly or be transported. He has new equipment and two helpers that assemble + inspect the delta. Furthermore he has a camera mounted to the gliders and take a 12 exposure roll for the rider (the pics are like from a movie), I also had my own camera to take great pictures of the landscape. It was truly a pleasure to have spent part of my vacation with a reliable and friendly person such as Paulo. Please continue to support his services in your publications as I highly recommend this individual. |
| Name: | Krista Frysinger |
| Comments: | I purchased the Let's Go guide to Brazil for my recent trip to Brazil in February. While in Rio, I used the Hang Gliding company: Just Fly, with owner Paulo Celani (9985-7540), as recommended by the Let's Go guide. I would like to highly recommend this company to any person (interested in Hang Gliding) who travels to Rio. My hang gliding experience was amazing! Paulo arranged for our transporation to and from our hotel, was very patient and flexible in arranging our flight times (I called him at 10am and he was ready to pick us up within 2 hours!), and was very accomodating and calming during the whole trip. He was also very efficient--we did not have to wait to fly or be transported. He had t-shirts available for sale. They have cameras mounted to the gliders and take a 12 exposure roll for the rider (the pics turned out great!). Even as he was driving us back to the hotel he was generous enough to give us r eliable cab references and offered to rent his apartment out to our friend or make him a deal at his hostel (Hostel Ipanema). It was truly a pleasure to have spent part of my vacation with a reliable and friendly person such as Paulo. Please continue to support his services in your publications as I highly recommend this individual.
Thank you, Krista Frysinger San Jose, CA |
| Name: | Terry and Jim |
| E-mail address: | ima.shopper@comcast.net |
| Comments: | 28-March-2004
Wow- Flying with Paulo and Mosquito was the height of our first trip to Brazil during Carnival '04. We had apprehensions at first, but it was obvious even before we jumped the respect given to Paulo by other flyers at Peppino Beach. Nothing like a bird's eye view over Tejuca Forest and the Atlantic - awesome! Just Fly and Paulo are THE flyers to go with... We will definitely be back ! Terry and Jim Arlington, Virginia U.S.A. |
| Name: | Anita |
| Comments: | My experience with Paulo is the closest I've come to my dreams of flying. And, he's indeed the person to know in Rio. See you next visit (April 1-12)!
Anita Atlanta, GA USA |
| Name: | Katie Price |
| Comments: | What an amazing experience! Flying over the rainforest with the mountains behind you, the white sandy beaches ahead and the Favela's spralling beneath you it really is the most complete experience of the city imaginable. I would thoroughly recommend flying with Paulo: a trip to Rio just would not be complete without it.
Katie |
| Name: | Vas Pivrnec |
| E-mail address: | vas127@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | A truly incredible experience for a first timer ! I actually had some time at the top of the mountain waiting for Paulo to return from a flight with my friend, and while checking out the many other companies, was pleased to notice that Paulo's was easily the most professional, experienced, and with the best equimpment. Hope to one day return and do it again ! |
| Name: | Antoinette |
| E-mail address: | apriolo@maybelline.com |
| Comments: | Hang gliding in Rio with Paolo was without a doubt one of the best experiences in my life! He took great care in making sure all procedures were safe and that we felt comfortable flying with him. Definitely the best guy in Rio to fly with, and a great guy to know when you're visiting. Looking forward to coming back and hang gliding again! |
| Name: | Paul |
| E-mail address: | kondratp@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://cfa-www.harvard.edu/~pkondratko |
| Comments: | Paulo!
I had a great time flying with Just Fly. It was without a doubt one of the highlights of my stay in Rio. It was also unambiguously clear to me at all times that you place safety first, over and above any other concerns. This is a mark of professionalism and I greatly appreciate it. Thanks again, Paul |
| Name: | Jeanette Smith |
| Comments: | If you're in Rio and want a thrilling way to see Rio, I highly recommend hang gliding with Paulo. He's a pro. Thanks for an amazing flight, Paulo! My husband and I look forward to flying with you the next time we're in Rio.
All the best, Jeanette |
| Name: | Jean-Marc |
| E-mail address: | edito64@wanadoo.fr |
| Comments: | I had a great experience flying with Paulo, and he helped me to find an apartment in the best part of Ipanema. Definitively a person to meet when in Rio!!
Thank you Paulo and see you soon! |
| Name: | Sherri Paru |
| E-mail address: | sherript@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Paulo
thank you for one of the best experiences of my life. Thanks also, for all of the vacation tips. I felt totally safe with you and had a wonderful time!!! My husband was more nervous watching than I was flying! Sherri Paru, Portland, Oregon USA |
| Name: | Dharmesh & Bina Bodalia |
| E-mail address: | Dharmesh.Bodalia |
| Comments: | Thankyou for a fabulous time we both had hangliding with you...certainly one of the favourite highlights of our vacation in Brazil. We got our in-flight photos back today and they have come out great. An experience that we shall never forget which largely is down to the enthusiasm and professionalism that you exuded from the very first email that we exchanged before we left the UK. We would recommend you without hesitation..infact we have already done so and we've not even been back a week!!! Once again, thank you.
Dharmesh & Bina |
| Name: | Helen Clayton |
| Comments: | Thanks for a great flight, I had a fab time! I just got the pictures back yesterday and you were right Paulo, I was not disappointed. You are a great pilot and I really enjoyed being your co-pilot for the flight.
Thanks again, Helen Clayton |
| Name: | Steve Bannister |
| E-mail address: | s.bannister@dial.pipex.com |
| Comments: | Excellent experience, the highlight of my days in Rio. Paulo is very friendly, professional, and I would recomend anyone to take a flight with him.
Flew 9/10/03 |
| Name: | Julian Allason |
| Comments: | From the Financial Times 'How To Spend It' magazine, 4th October 2003:-
"This is a country in which preoccupation with architecture is exceeded only by that with the human body, similar techniques being applied to both. A glimpse of Oscar Niemeyer’s monumental buildings in the capital, Brasilia, or a glance up Ipanema beach confirm the same emphasis on bold curves. And, should the results prove unsatisfactory, reconstruction will be undertaken without hesitation. Much of this is evident as I take a running jump off the side of Mount Bonita in the Tijuca rainforest behind the city. The hang-glider soars above elaborate villas and golden beaches. For a momennt my instructor, Paulo Celani and I are higher than the incoming British Airways flight on its final approach. To the north Guanabara Bay bobs with sleek motor yachts, its entrance guarded by the familiar hump of Sugarloaf. In the middleground ‘favela’ shanty towns cling to the hillside, some outlaw territory to ordinary citizens and the police. High above the arms of the great statue of Christ on Corcavado mountain reach out in embrace of all. Such reassurance is badly needed as the sands of Săo Conrado loom up to meet my feet. Amongst those partying on this chicest of all Rio’s beaches my happy landing excites minimal interest." Julian Allason |
| Name: | Ronan Liddy (Ireland) |
| Comments: | Paulo - Thanks again for a brilliant flight on 19th September. Would highly recommend JustFly for an unmissable experience in Rio, great sights from the air combined with friendly,highly professional and well organised service.
|
| Name: | Luis Granados |
| E-mail address: | lgranados@mwe.com |
| Comments: | Thanks for everything. My son and I thought the flight was absolutely terrific, and my wife now wishes that she had gone along also. No one should go to Rio without enjoying this experience! |
| Name: | Bashar |
| Comments: | The jump was a highlight to my visit.. beautiful views, great time, and an experienced instructor. |
| Name: | Jim Walsh |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.bus.umich.edu/ |
| Comments: | To anyone going to Rio...
If you go to Rio be sure to jump off a cliff with Paulo. Sure, it is a little scary at first but address your fears and have the time of your life (look to the horizon and just run like crazy!). Everything about the experience is perfect...very professional, safe, and great fun. Go for it. You'll be glad you did. Jim Walsh |
| Name: | John D'Agate |
| E-mail address: | jdagate@nyc.rr.com |
| Comments: | I highly recommend this to everyone. Best experience I've ever had. Thanks! |
| Name: | Lucy Joyce |
| E-mail address: | lucyrjoyce@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Wonderful flying with you, soaring over the golf course, and almost scoring a goal coming in to land! Happy landings!!
love Lucy |
| Name: | Charles E. Willmott |
| E-mail address: | attywillmott@earthlink.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.jaxdivorce.com |
| Comments: | Just got back from Brazil after hang gliding with you and Ricardo. Awesome experience. Safe, inexpensive, and the most fun we had in Rio. We would recommend you highly. Charles and Anna from Jacksonville, Florida. |
| Name: | Debbi Clarke |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.kenan-flagler.unc.edu/ |
| Comments: | Hello Paulo! I went flying with you on Saturday, March 15th, a truly unforgettable experience! Hang gliding definitely provides the best view of Rio. Thanks so much for making it happen in spite of the cloud cover. I'm recommending you to everyone who travels with our group to Brazil next year.
All the best, Debbi Clarke University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Business School |
| Name: | zub and john |
| Comments: | dont just think about it - do it.best thing you'll be for a long time and totally safe. |
| Name: | Trevor & Ona Healey |
| E-mail address: | Trevona@bigpond.com |
| Comments: | Hi Paulo, Just checking in to make sure you are still in the air. Great Web site. Trev & I are still coming down from the clouds after winning our trip. Don't worry we'll be back. Take care and hugs to you. Trev & Ona Australia. |
| Name: | Eric Houston |
| E-mail address: | eric@erichouston.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.erichouston.com |
| Comments: | Paulo
Thanks for an amazing end to my trip to Brazil on the 17th March 2003. Flying over Rio on St Patricks day was just fantastic. Everything was brilliantly organised and totally professional. If you go to Rio you have to soar with Paul! Eric |
| Name: | John S. |
| Comments: | Ciao Paulo!
It has been almost 10 months since my flight in Rio and I still think about how great it was! We had to wait awhile in the cloud cover, but it was well worth it. Glad to see you are still up flying! take care, John |
| Name: | Eric Hinshaw |
| E-mail address: | Eric@ChaletSuzanne.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.ChaletSuzanne.com |
| Comments: | Paulo,
Thanks for the many memorable flights that I, as well as my friends, family, and crewmembers have enjoyed! Tailwinds, Eric |
| Name: | Josh |
| Comments: | Just Fly was Just Great. Thanks Paulo for unforgetable experience flying in Rio! You're a great guy. Happy landings!!! |