Hot Air Balloon First Ride Ever In Costa Brava, Spain Adventure Travel!

Have you dreamed of taking a hot air ballon ride in Costa Brava? Well, for the brave (and not so brave) here is my experience.

Travel has taught me many life lessons and one of the most important of all is to embrace the unknown by being willing to step outside of your comfort zone. I’m excited to try new foods, visit new places and experience cultures. However, my fear of heights is real and something I’ve been dealing with my entire life.

Although I’ve never allowed it to get the best of me in terms of not getting on a plane or crossing a bridge, I’ve carefully tailored my travels to be more adventurous in terms of my taste buds as opposed to doing things such as bungee jumping.

Hot Air Balloon Experience in Costa Brava

When faced with the option of experiencing a hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava, Spain for the first time, my default initial reaction was to pass on it. After-all, it is not as though I was getting from point A to B by balloon. I could just sit this one out and resume the rest of my travel itinerary with the group.

That would have obviously been the easy decision; however, something inside of me decided not to let my fear of heights get in the way of what could be one of the most scenic flights of my life. I mean, we would be flying over ancient volcanoes and seeing the Pyrenees off in the distance; that’s not a view you get to see every day!

Experience in a Hot Air Balloon

Those waving goodbye at us became tiny dots; we were rising fast. Without articulating it out loud I was panicking inside. I instantly imagined all of the worst case scenarios possible; however, it wasn’t long before I started to relax. It helped that a few others were nervous and that I wasn’t the only person slightly terrified to be up that high in the sky.

The ride itself is smoother than flying in a plane or a helicopter. You don’t feel any turbulence whatsoever. In fact, it doesn’t even feel like you’re really moving in any direction at all.

I’d be lying if I said I was relaxed in say the same way I would be lounging on a couch back home, but I did start to feel more comfortable. It wasn’t long before I took out my camera and really started to enjoy my surroundings.

The views were simply stunning and we couldn’t have asked for a more optimal all weather solution. Below us, we had La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park which features 45 dormant volcanoes situated in between the Pyrenees Mountains and the coastline.

I Would Do It Again (Hot Air Ballon Ride)

By around the halfway point of our journey (most rides are 1.5 hours long) I relaxed even more. It was around this point in time when I felt impatient that the pilot brought out cake and cava. Watching the sunrise while drinking cava and eating cake was the moment I realized it was all worth it. I felt more at ease and I realized I had conquered my fear of hot air ballooning.

No, I’ll never totally get over my fear of heights but I was ‘okay’ with being up in the air at that moment.

And then came the descent so smooth and gentle, that we hardly felt a thing when we touched the ground. The landing much like the rest of the balloon ride was graceful. I had survived my first hot air balloon ride and I didn’t fall out of the basket! 😉

Moreover, although I was glad to be back on solid ground I was already thinking that I could do another ride in the future. Had I decided to let fear get in the way I would not have experienced all of those magic moments in the sky nor would I have felt good about myself for skipping out.

Challenging yourself is the only way to grow as a person and I’m glad the hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava reminded me of how important it is to never stop doing that.

How To Arrange Your Flight: Planning your Hot Air Balloon Ride:

Booking Your Flight

• Choose a Reputable Company: Vol de Coloms in La Garrotxa offers departures between 7 and 8 AM, providing a perfect opportunity to experience the area in the soft morning light.
• Duration and Details: Flights typically last about 1.5 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the sights and sensations of floating above Catalonia.
• Location: The take-off site is located at Afores s/n, 17811, Olot, España, easily accessible from most parts of Costa Brava.

Planning Tips

• Book in Advance: To secure a spot, especially during tourist season, booking in advance is recommended.
• Dress Appropriately: Mornings can be chilly, and it’s warmer near the burner, so dress in layers.
• Check the Weather: Balloon flights are weather-dependent, so it’s good to have a flexible schedule in case of delays.

Why Costa Brava Is Such A Good Place For Your First Balloon Ride

If you’re going to leave solid ground and trust a basket and a balloon, Costa Brava is a pretty dreamy place to do it. You’ve got this mix of dormant volcanoes, patchwork countryside, medieval villages, and the Pyrenees in the distance. Even if you’re nervous, the landscape does a lot of the emotional heavy lifting.

I like to think of a hot air balloon here as a “soft” adventure. It’s not the same intensity as jumping off a bridge with a bungee cord; it’s more of a slow, floating kind of bravery. You’re pushing your comfort zone, but you’re doing it in a way that comes with sunrise light, cava, and cake. Not a bad trade.

And if you’re planning a trip to Costa Brava anyway, ballooning fits beautifully into a wider itinerary. You can pair it with a day on the coast, a night in Girona, or a couple of slow days in the countryside.

Where To Base Yourself For A Hot Air Balloon In Costa Brava

Most balloon flights in this corner of Catalonia take off around the La Garrotxa / Olot area, with people staying all over the region and driving in early. So your first decision is: where do you sleep before your big floating morning?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose a base:

If you’re mainly going to Costa Brava for the balloon experience, staying in or near Olot / La Garrotxa is ideal. You’ll have a short commute, more sleep, and less stress about getting lost on winding roads in the dark.

If you’re building this into a bigger trip, Girona is a lovely compromise. You get a beautiful historic centre, great food, and easy access to both the coast and the balloon launch site.

What Your Balloon Morning Actually Looks Like

One thing that really helps with nerves is simply knowing what to expect. The more familiar the process feels in your head, the less your imagination can run wild on you.

Here’s a typical timeline for a sunrise balloon flight in Costa Brava:

Sample Sunrise Flight Timeline

• 05:30–06:00 – Wake up, quick breakfast or snack, lots of yawning
• 06:15–06:45 – Drive to the launch site in the dark, following the GPS a bit too obsessively
• Arrival – Meet the team, sign any paperwork, get a basic safety briefing
• Pre-flight – Watch the balloon being inflated; you’re still on solid ground, taking photos
• Boarding – Climb into the basket, usually in smaller groups per compartment
• Take-off – The burner roars, then suddenly the ground just… slides away
• In the air (about 1–1.5 hours) – Float over countryside, villages, and volcanic landscapes
• Landing – Gentle bump or slide across a field; the crew is already waiting on the ground
• Post-flight – Pack away the balloon, celebratory drink, breakfast, and usually lots of photos

Everything about the rhythm of the day is intentionally slow and calm: the briefing, the inflation, the way you rise. It’s designed to bring your heart rate down, not spike it.

Getting There And Getting Around

Arriving From Barcelona Or Beyond

If you’re starting in Barcelona, you basically have three realistic options to reach the balloon area:

1. Rental car – The most flexible. You set your own departure time, stop for coffee, pull over for viewpoints.
2. Regional bus + taxi – Slightly more effort. You can take a bus to a nearby town and then arrange a taxi for the last leg.
3. Organised transfer / tour – In some cases, the balloon operator or a tour company can arrange a transfer from major cities or coastal towns.

Transport Comparison At A Glance

If you’re nervous about driving in the dark on unfamiliar roads, a transfer can be worth the extra cost. On the flip side, if you’re planning to explore little villages and hidden corners after the flight, having a rental car opens up a lot of options.

Budgeting For A Hot Air Balloon Trip In Costa Brava

A balloon ride is rarely the “cheap” line item on a trip, but it doesn’t have to be an over-the-top luxury thing either. Think of it as your big splurge experience in the region.

You can roughly think about costs in three bands:

• Backpacker / budget-conscious – Staying in simple guesthouses, self-catering some meals, picking one big activity (the balloon).
• Midrange – Comfortable hotels, eating out most nights, mixing paid attractions with free walks and village strolls.
• Comfort / splurge – Boutique stays, more restaurant dining, maybe adding a spa afternoon or a wine-tasting to the mix.

Very Rough Daily Budgets (Per Person)

Exact numbers will change over time, but expect the balloon ride to be one of your most expensive single experiences on the trip. The good news is that, apart from transport and a meal or two, there’s not a lot of extra spending attached to the actual activity.

What To Wear And Pack For A Sunrise Flight

The first time I did this, I massively overthought what to wear… and then still managed to underdress. Classic move.

A few simple rules keep you comfortable:

Clothing

• Layers, layers, layers – Early morning can be chilly on the ground, but the burner keeps you warm in the basket.
• Long sleeves and long trousers – Helpful for both warmth and avoiding accidental scrapes climbing in and out.
• Closed-toe shoes with good grip – Think trainers or light hiking shoes; avoid sandals or heels.
• Hat or cap – The burner can radiate heat, and a hat keeps your head warm but also protects from the warmth above.

What To Bring In A Small Daypack

• Light jacket or fleece
• Sunglasses (sunrise glare can be strong)
• A charged camera or smartphone
• Spare battery / power bank
• Small water bottle
• Tissues or wet wipes
• Any medication you might need in the morning

Quick Pre-Flight Checklist

• Alarm set (double-check)
• Clothes laid out the night before
• Directions to launch site saved offline
• Camera charged + memory card with space
• Cash or card for post-flight snacks or extra coffee

Doing all of this the night before makes the early start feel less brutal. You’re basically rolling out of bed and stepping into a plan that’s already in motion.

When To Go: Seasons, Weather, And Crowds

Balloon flights are extremely weather dependent. Calm wind, good visibility, no storms. That’s what you’re looking for.

In Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees area, you can theoretically fly year-round, but each season has its own mood.

If your main goal is photography and you like softer light and less intense heat, spring and autumn are beautiful. If you’re combining the balloon with lots of beach time, summer is the obvious choice, as long as you’re ready for the crowds and higher prices on the coast.

Regardless of season, always keep one thing in mind:

Your flight might be delayed or rescheduled due to weather.
That’s not a sign something has gone wrong. It’s a sign your pilot cares about safety.

If possible, plan your balloon ride early in your stay rather than on the very last morning. That way, you’ve got a backup day if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Turning Your Balloon Flight Into A Mini Itinerary

Since you’ve already made the effort to get up early and reach the countryside, it’s worth building a bit more around the experience.

1-Day “Balloon + Villages” Itinerary

Perfect if you’re short on time:

• Sunrise balloon flight
• Post-flight breakfast and celebration
• Late morning visit to a nearby medieval town or village
• Slow lunch on a terrace
• Gentle walk in the countryside or through old streets
• Evening back in your base (Girona, the coast, or Olot)

It’s a full day, but in a very relaxed way. The hardest thing you’ll do after the flight is decide between dessert options.

2-Day Countryside Escape

If you’ve got a weekend:

Day 1

• Travel from Barcelona or the coast to La Garrotxa / Girona area
• Explore a historic town, visit viewpoints, enjoy a big late lunch
• Early night in a rural stay or small hotel

Day 2

• Sunrise balloon flight
• Late breakfast/brunch after landing
• Short hike or walk in the afternoon, then return to your main base

This setup lets you go to bed early the night before, which makes that pre-dawn alarm much less painful.

3-Day “Balloon + Coast” Combo

If you want the best of both worlds:

Day 1 – Drive from Barcelona to the coast, check into a seaside town, evening stroll and dinner.
Day 2 – Pre-dawn drive inland for the balloon ride, back to the coast for a long, lazy afternoon on the beach.
Day 3 – Explore coastal villages, viewpoints, or coastal paths before heading back to the city.

The contrast is lovely: one day you’re floating above volcanoes, the next you’re dipping your toes in the Mediterranean.

Getting Great Photos Without Missing The Moment

If you’re anything like me, part of your brain is always thinking about photos or video. But there’s a balance between documenting the experience and just living it.

A few practical photography tips from the basket:

Camera And Settings

• Wide angle wins – A wide lens is perfect for capturing the basket, balloon, and landscape all in one frame.
• Fast enough shutter speed – You’re moving slowly, but you’re still moving. Try to keep your shutter reasonably fast to avoid blur.
• Use a strap – Neck strap or wrist strap, just something to avoid the nightmare scenario of dropping your camera over the side.

Composition Ideas

• Include parts of the basket or other passengers to give a sense of scale.
• Look straight down occasionally; fields, roads, and rivers look like abstract patterns from above.
• Turn around. Some of the best shots are not where the pilot is pointing, but behind you in the direction you just came from.
• Don’t forget the sky. Clouds, distant peaks, and other balloons can make fantastic minimalist shots.

And then, honestly, put the camera down for a while. Take some photos early on, get the “must-have” shots, and then give yourself permission to just stand there and look.

Common Mistakes To Avoid On Your First Balloon Ride

A lot of first-timer stress can be avoided with a few simple tweaks. Here are some easy wins:

Booking Mistakes

• Leaving it to the last morning of your trip – If the weather cancels it, you’re out of luck.
• Not reading the small print – Make sure you understand cancellation policies and backup plans.

Practical Mistakes

• Wearing the wrong shoes – You don’t want to be sliding around in slick soles during landing.
• Bringing huge bags – Space is limited in the basket. A small daypack is more than enough.
• Forgetting snacks or water – You don’t need a picnic basket, but a little water and something small to eat helps with the early start.

Emotional Mistakes

• Keeping your fear a secret – Tell the pilot you’re nervous. They’ll keep an extra eye on you and explain things as you go.
• Trying to “tough it out” alone – If you’re really scared, stand near a corner or someone you trust. Having a physical “anchor” helps.
• Forgetting why you’re doing this – It’s easy to fixate on height and what-ifs. Keep reminding yourself: you’re doing this for the sunrise, the views, the story you’ll tell later, and the confidence that comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

Tips For Overcoming Fear Of Riding A Hot Air Balloon

So, you’ve been dreaming about floating in the sky, touching the clouds, and witnessing the world from a bird’s eye view. But, there’s a tiny problem – the very thought of stepping into a hot air balloon sends shivers down your spine. Fear not! I’ve been there, done that, and guess what? I lived to tell the tale. I was honestly terrified. But I didn’t let it stop me from doing it. So, let’s dive into some tried-and-true tips for overcoming that fear of riding a hot air balloon. Ready to conquer the skies?

1) Educate Yourself About the Safety

Hot air ballooning is one of the safest forms of air travel. Before your ride, take some time to learn about the safety measures and the reliability of hot air balloon technology. Knowing how balloons operate and the rigorous safety protocols in place can reassure you that you’re in good hands.

2) Choose a Reputable Company

Always book your ride with a reputable company. Check reviews, ask about their safety records, and find out how experienced the pilots are. Companies with solid reputations prioritize safety and are often very accommodating to nervous flyers.

3) Talk to Your Pilot

Before taking off, have a chat with your pilot. Ask any burning questions you might have about the flight, what to expect during the journey, and the pilot’s own experiences. Understanding what will happen at each stage of the flight can help reduce fear of the unknown.

4) Bring a Friend

Everything’s better with a friend! Having a buddy with you can not only be comforting but also distracting. Sharing the experience can help keep your mind off your fears and focus more on the fun aspect of the adventure.

5) Focus on the Scenery

Once you’re up in the air, try to focus on the breathtaking views rather than your fears. Bring a camera and take photos, or engage in light conversation with other passengers. Focusing on the beauty around you can help shift your attention away from anxiety.

6) Practice Breathing Techniques

Learn some basic breathing techniques before your flight. Deep breathing can help manage anxiety and reduce stress. Practice these techniques before and during the flight to keep yourself calm.

7) Start with Shorter Rides

If possible, start with a shorter ride. Some companies offer varying lengths of flight time. A shorter trip means less time in the air, which might be more manageable for first-timers.

8) Accept and Face the Fear

Sometimes, just accepting that you’re scared and facing it head-on can be empowering. Remind yourself why you chose to embark on this adventure and focus on the positive aspects of overcoming your fear.

Riding in a hot air balloon is an exhilarating experience that shouldn’t be marred by anxiety. By preparing yourself mentally and physically, choosing the right company, and using techniques to manage your fear, you’re setting yourself up for a fantastic flight. Remember, it’s okay to be scared, but don’t let fear keep you from enjoying one of the most majestic rides of your life!

Hot Air Balloon Costa Brava FAQs: Real-World Questions, Honest Answers & Practical Tips

Is a hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava safe if I’m afraid of heights?

Yes. If you can handle a plane window or a viewpoint on a hill, you can probably handle a balloon. The basket feels surprisingly solid and you don’t get that stomach-drop rollercoaster sensation because the balloon moves with the wind rather than fighting against it.

If you’re nervous, tell the pilot right away. They’re used to first-timers and can talk you through what’s happening, keep you near the centre of the basket, and give you little jobs like watching for landmarks to keep your mind occupied. The moment the scenery takes over, the fear usually starts to shrink.

How long does a hot air balloon flight in Costa Brava actually last?

Roughly. The time in the air is usually around 1–1.5 hours, depending on wind and conditions, which matches what I experienced over La Garrotxa’s volcanic landscape. Many operators package that inside a longer 3–5 hour experience including check-in, inflation, the flight itself, landing, and a post-flight breakfast or toast.

If you’re planning your day, I’d block out the full morning from “way too early o’clock” until late morning or lunchtime. After that, you’re free to nap, road-trip, or wander through medieval villages.

What does a typical Costa Brava hot air balloon package include?

Absolutely. A standard shared sunrise flight in this area usually includes: pre-flight coffee or a light snack, the inflation show (which is more fun than it sounds), about 1–1.5 hours in the air, a cava (sparkling wine) toast when you land, and a proper breakfast afterwards.

Many companies also include transport back to the original launch point and a small souvenir like a certificate or photo. Details vary, but the general idea is that you’re looked after from the moment you arrive until you’re back on the ground with a full belly.

How much does a hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava usually cost?

Not cheap. Think of this as your “big experience” splurge in the region. For a shared sunrise flight, you’re generally looking at somewhere in the ballpark of around €180–€250 per adult, depending on the company, time of year, and what’s included (breakfast, transfers, etc.).

Kids sometimes get a reduced rate, and private flights for couples, families, or special occasions can jump significantly higher. Prices do change, so I’d treat these as rough guide numbers and always check current rates directly with the operator before planning your budget.

What is the best time of year to do a hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava?

It depends. The beautiful thing is that flights run pretty much year-round in the La Garrotxa / Girona Pyrenees area, and each season has its own personality: fresh greens in spring, golden tones in autumn, crisp skies in winter, and big sunny mornings in summer.

If you love photography and softer temperatures, I’d personally lean towards spring and autumn. Summer pairs nicely with a beach trip but can be busier and warmer after landing. Winter offers dramatic visibility on clear days but comes with chilly pre-dawn starts and a higher chance of weather cancellations.

What time of day do flights depart and how early do I need to wake up?

Early. Most flights in this region are timed for sunrise, when the air is calmest and the light is at its best. That usually means meeting the crew somewhere between about 7:00 and 8:00 a.m., sometimes even earlier in high summer.

How brutal your alarm feels depends on where you’re staying. If you’re based close to the launch area around La Garrotxa, you can get away with a shorter drive. If you’re coming from Girona or the coast, expect a dark, pre-dawn journey before you even see the balloon.

What should I wear and bring for a sunrise hot air balloon flight?

Layers, always. Early mornings on the ground can be cool, while the burner keeps things warm in the basket, so you want clothes you can easily adjust. Long sleeves, long trousers, and closed-toe shoes with decent grip are ideal, both for warmth and for clambering in and out of the basket.

In a small daypack, I’d bring a light jacket, sunglasses, a charged camera or phone, a spare battery, a small water bottle, and any medication you need in the mornings. A simple hat or cap is great too, both for warmth and to protect you a bit from the heat of the burner above your head.

Can children or older travellers join a hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava?

Usually. Exact rules depend on the company, but many balloon operators set a minimum age (often around 6–8 years old) and require that kids are tall enough to see over the basket and follow instructions. There’s generally no strict upper age limit as long as you can stand for around an hour and climb in and out of the basket with light assistance.

If you’re travelling with young kids, grandparents, or anyone with health issues, talk to the operator in advance. They’ll tell you honestly whether the flight is suitable and what kind of physical ability they expect on take-off and landing.

Is there a weight limit for hot air balloon rides in Costa Brava?

It depends. Balloons have a limited “lift capacity,” and pilots have to plan carefully based on the total weight of everyone on board, plus temperature and other conditions. That’s why companies ask for your weight in advance and sometimes have per-passenger limits or surcharges above a certain number of kilos.

If you’re worried you might be close to a limit, the best thing you can do is be upfront when you book. A good operator will use that information to balance the basket correctly, keep you safe, and make sure everyone still has a comfortable amount of space.

What happens if the weather is bad on the morning of my flight?

Simple: you don’t fly. Ballooning is extremely weather-dependent; pilots need calm winds, good visibility, and no storms in the area. If conditions don’t meet their safety criteria, they’ll cancel or reschedule your flight, sometimes at the last minute.

It’s frustrating in the moment, but it’s actually a very good sign. Companies that are strict about weather are companies that prioritise safety over squeezing in every possible flight. If you can, plan your balloon ride for early in your Costa Brava stay so you have a backup day if the first attempt gets scrubbed.

Will I feel motion sickness or turbulence in the balloon?

Not really. One of the surprises with ballooning is how gentle it feels. Because the balloon moves with the wind, there’s no sensation of “fighting” the air like you get on a plane, so you don’t feel jolts or turbulence in the same way.

Most people who get queasy on boats or buses are totally fine in a balloon. If you’re very sensitive, you can still take basic precautions like not flying on an empty stomach, staying hydrated, and letting the pilot know so they can keep an eye on you.

What are take-off and landing really like on a hot air balloon ride?

Calmer than you think. Take-off is usually a slow, surreal moment where the ground just starts to slide away from you. There’s no dramatic jump; you’re chatting one second and floating the next.

Landings can range from “soft as butter” to a slightly bumpy slide across a field if there’s a bit of wind. Before you descend, your pilot will explain the landing position and what to hold on to. Follow their instructions and think of it more like stepping off a gentle amusement ride than bracing for impact.

Where is the best place to base myself the night before my Costa Brava balloon flight?

If your main goal is the balloon, I’d base yourself as close as possible to the launch area around La Garrotxa (near Olot). That keeps your pre-dawn drive short and removes a lot of stress. Many people stay in rural guesthouses or small hotels nearby and just roll out of bed and into the car.

If you want more going on, Girona makes a great base with its historic centre and restaurant scene, and you can drive inland in the morning. Staying on the coast is the most scenic but also the earliest wake-up, so I’d only do that if you’re combining the flight with a bigger beach-focused stay.

How far in advance should I book my hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava?

Sooner than you think. For peak season (roughly late spring through early autumn) and weekends, I’d aim to book at least a week or two ahead, more if you have very specific dates or are a larger group. In quieter months, you might snag last-minute spots, but it’s never guaranteed.

Remember there are only so many baskets and sunrise slots available each day. If the balloon ride is a non-negotiable highlight of your trip, lock it in early and build the rest of your itinerary around it rather than the other way around.

Can I bring my camera on the balloon and still enjoy the moment?

Yes. This is one of those experiences where you’ll want at least a few photos. A small camera or smartphone with a wrist or neck strap is perfect; it keeps things safe while you lean over the edge for those overhead shots of fields, roads, and villages.

My advice is to get your “must-have” photos and short video clips in the first part of the flight and then deliberately put the camera down for a while. Breathe, look around, and let your brain actually process the fact that you’re floating over volcanoes and countryside instead of watching everything through a screen.

Is a hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava suitable for travellers with limited mobility?

It depends. Standard baskets usually require you to climb over the edge using cut-outs in the side and then stand for the duration of the flight, with no seats or mobility devices inside the basket. For many people with mild mobility issues, that’s still doable with a bit of help, but it’s not universal.

If you use a wheelchair, have serious balance problems, or can’t stand for long, you’ll need to talk directly to operators and ask about what’s realistically possible. Some balloon companies in Europe have more accessible baskets with doors, but they’re still relatively specialised. The key is to be very clear about your needs before you book so nobody is put in an awkward or unsafe situation at dawn.

Making The Most Of Your Costa Brava Balloon Experience

A hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava isn’t just an activity to tick off a list. It’s one of those travel days that sticks with you long after you’re back at home doing ordinary things like laundry and answering emails.

You get the thrill without the chaos, the height without the harshness, and a perspective on the landscape you just can’t get any other way. Pair it with a couple of lazy days exploring villages, feasting on local food, and breathing in mountain-and-sea air, and it becomes a highlight of your time in Spain.

If the idea both excites and scares you, you’re probably in exactly the right place. That’s where the good stories live.

This post was brought to you as a result of the #EuroFoodTrip campaign, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with Costa Brava & Girona Pyrenees and Emilia Romagna Tourism. As always, all thoughts remain my own.