Completing a degree is one of life’s most memorable and important milestones, so deserves a good celebration.

This year here at Virgin Balloon Flights we’re celebrating our 21st birthday. So since we too have reached graduate age, we thought we’d put together some unique gift ideas.

Whether you’re looking for graduation gift ideas for your son, daughter, niece, nephew, grandchild, partner, or close friend, a hot air balloon ride is an experience they’ll never forget.

After all that hard work writing a dissertation, completing essays, and sitting exams, as a new graduate you’ll need time to de-stress and most importantly have fun!

Pictured left: Graduates at The University of Bath can bid farewell to this beautiful ancient city in one of our balloons.

A hot air balloon ride is a thrilling, yet serene experience. See your home country or university town from the skies as you reach cloud nine and feel like you’re literally floating on air.

From balloon flights in Scotland right down to Cornwall - with over 100 locations to choose from, you’re sure to find a launch site near you.

Keepsake Graduation Gifts

If you’re looking for a keepsake gift to go alongside your graduate’s sky-high adventure, here are some quirky ideas we’ve put together.

1. Personalised Bottle of Champagne – because nothing says congratulations like a bit of bubbly! A glass of Champagne is also featured in our flight experiences as part of a traditional celebratory toast after landing.

2. Pair of Clever Clogs- whether it’s a clog keyring, ornament, cookie, or literally a pair of clogs – this Dutch-themed gift is perfect. Let’s face it, all graduates think they’re clever clogs, so this novelty gift is sure to make them smile.

3. Wise Owl – we’re not suggesting you start keeping pet owls – unless you’re an experienced falconer of course, but owl accessories make great graduation gifts for her.

4. Personalised Travel Map – why not go extra special with a personalised graduation gift for him or her? Let them know the world is their oyster with a personalised travel map.

5. A Hot Air Balloon Flight Certificate! – Not heard? After you’ve completed your hot air balloon flight with us, you’ll be presented with a certificate signed by your pilot and endorsed by Sir Richard Branson. Why not display this in a graduation-style frame as the perfect memento of your special gift experience?

Adventures with Your Course or Housemates

After graduating many university friends like to book holidays a minibreaks together – ideal for giving you one last adventure before starting your career.

Italy is one of our favourite destinations here at Virgin Balloon Flights. With its beautiful cities and glorious coast, charming Italy is sure to give you the trip of a lifetime. Not to mention, our sister company Ballooning in Tuscany is perfect for getting a bird’s eye view of incredible Italian landscapes.

Give your graduate the ultimate celebratory adventure. Book your balloon flight today.