Deposits Are Being Accepted for New Jersey Residents to Fly into Space
We all may be looking for the perfect summer social media picture to post and make our co-workers and friends jealous. Look no further because Virgin Galactic has the solution that will certainly make you the talk of every follower and friend. There’s just one catch, you’re going to need more cash than you’ve probably ever seen in your life.
I just booked a voyage with one of Richard Branson‘s companies, and while I and my entire family are excited about our cruise on a Virgin Voyages ship, it’s not as exhilarating as the possibility of flying into space.
Branson’s company Virgin Galactic announced last week, the start of its Commercial Spaceflight Service, with its first commercial mission aboard its Galactic 01 craft planning to launch later this month. According to the company, the suborbital flight will carry three crew members from the Italian Air Force and the National Research Council of Italy to conduct microgravity research.
However, after the return of the “professional flyers” some really stuff is planned in August. That’s when Galactic 02, takes flight and launches into space. The Galactic 02, “will bring Virgin Galactic’s unique experience to private astronauts.” Representatives from Branson’s company say that monthly trips to space will be happening after that.
The company’s website says “Your reservation includes more than a spaceflight. You’ll enjoy a Future Astronaut community membership, a multi-day training and preparation retreat at Spaceport America with family and friends, bespoke flight wear, astronaut insignia, photographs, and video, opportunities to give back to future generations, and more.” In case you’re wondering, it doesn’t look like it includes karaoke.
So what will it cost us New Jerseyans if we’re interested in taking the trip? First, you have to authorize a $10,000 credit card deposit to pre-book your flight with a total deposit of $150,000, and a final payment of $300,000. That brings the total cost to $450,000 to get that cool pic for social media.
Looks like I made the right choice because my trip is significantly less expensive and may or may not include a belly flop contest.
10 Fun Things to Do at the Lake
Swimming in the cool waters
I grew up a swimmer, but some lakes are just too cold for my taste. That said, many people love a refreshing dip into crisp, cold water at their local lake. Just check temperatures before you jump in, because if it’s too early in the season, those temperatures could be dangerously cold.
Little kid swimming in the lake. Getty Images.
Camping near the shoreline
Water often attracts special wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else. That makes camping near a lake a very special experience and different from the typical campground. When you’re camping, make sure you check out the nature that blossoms around the lakes and wetlands, too.
Campsite with orange tent. Getty Images.
Fishing
When I was a little kid, I wanted to go fishing. My dad was not a fisherman by any means and was pretty clueless about it. So, he had a friend of his take us fishing, and it was so fun, even though I didn’t catch anything. That said, fishing is a great summer activity on the lake.
Father and son fishing on boat. Getty Images.
Paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing
If you’re looking for an activity to help keep you in shape, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are all great exercise. All of those activities are harder than they look, too, so they can be challenging. But, in the end, you’ll have a good time and get in a real workout. Many lakes have places were you can rent a paddleboat, kayak or canoe, too.
Couple kayaking together. Getty Images.
Water sports
One of my cousins absolutely loves jet skiing. It’s always fun to hear him talk about the experience. I’m not much of a water sports enthusiast, but I can appreciate those who do partake. You don’t even have to have your own boat or jet skis, as they are often available for rent nearby.
Young man riding jet boat on a summer day at the lake. Getty Images.
Have a picnic
It’s always a charming activity to have a picnic by the lake. Invite some friends or family over and bring some delicious food to enjoy while looking at the water. Oh, and make sure to have ice cream. That’s a must.
Picnic by the lake. Basket with berries, bread. Getty Images.
Take a hike
Hiking near a lake can be extra lovely, as the water can offer glorious scenery to really make your hike memorable. As aforementioned, lakes often attract nature that you don’t find anywhere else, so hiking around the water can be a unique experience.
Woman with a small yellow dog standing on pier by the mountain lake. Getty Images.
Party with friends
Parties by the lake are always fun. So, get out a grill and invite a bunch of friends down to the beach to enjoy a day or night of partying by the water. But, don’t get wasted, because drinking and swimming can be a deadly combination.
Happy friends doing selfie swimming in the sea with sail boat in background. Getty Images.
Sunbathing
Here’s my top choice, even though you’ll likely find me doing it in the shade: sunbathing. If the water is too cold of you’re just not up to more challenging activities, you can get some sun and lay on the beach. But, remember the sunscreen.
Women relaxing at the lake. Getty Images.
Lakeside games
Lakeside games are definitely a thing, and there are many quirky games that you can play by the lake. A few enjoyable lake games include water balloon fights, bean bag tosses, horseshoes and more. Pick a game and dig in.
Family on dock splashing feet in lake. Getty Images.
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