Currently sponsord by Eutelsat, makers of communications satellites, the balloon was originally part of millenium celebrations in 1999. At that time Fortis Assurances was the sponsor and offered free rides to all of the children of Paris. So popular was the balloon that it returned with a new sponsor after its' initial contract had expired.

Lofty vantage points abound in Paris at sites like the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, Arc de Triomphe, etc. But this is different. it was in France that ballooning first began. It was in Paris in 1783, that the first manned flight took place from the Tuileries Gardens. Now, 230-years later, another balloon is back with a "basket" that will hold 30-people, controlled by modern-day technology and offering view like nothing else.

We lifted off, tethered by a cable and winch system, at a gradul rate. Within a few minutes we were 400-feet in the air looking directly at the Eiffel Tower and the rest of Paris. As the sun dropped lower, the city took on a warm, golden glow I had never experienced. The thrill of this little-known diversion will never leave you as you look out across the neighborhoods that make up this beautiful city. Even the pilots said this was their favorite time of day to be flying.

On a clear day every monument that is Paris is visible from this altitude. Since you're not strapped to a seat you can wander around the basket taking pictures you won't get elsewhere. A netting over the basket is in place to prevent another parachutist from making a base jump here as one had done a couple of years ago. Luckily it doesn't hinder your views of the city.

The Eutelsat Balloon is at Parc Andre-Cirtoen, in the 15th Arrondissement. Metro stop is Javel Andre-Citroen or Balard. Call in advance to verify weather conditions. Reach them at 01-44-26-2000. Adults are $10, and reduced rates are available for children and students. On the internet ogo to http://www. aeroparis.com.