“Christine and Jonathon are the best people. "
I was looking for an aerial retreat in a tropical area with an accomplished instructor, and Airborne Arts fit the bill perfectly.
I had a lot of questions and Christine answered all of them quickly and efficiently. She is very patient and attentive to all of the students' needs in everything from the training to the food and accommodations AND she is a renowned world class aerialist! Just look up Christine Van Loo on Google or Wikipedia. Most of all Christine and her husband Jonathon are the best people. They are generous and caring spirits, and really go out of their way to make you feel welcome in the aerial paradise they have created.
The property itself has a custom-made unique building architecture surrounded by lush green jungle overlooking a beautiful valley. The on-site chef Sarah was a star, preparing healthy locally sourced amazing dishes of every kind, catering to our every need! I would be thankful to eat like that any day.
Having practiced aerial silks for one year, I was still fairly new; some of the students had less experience and some had much more. Christine was great in making sure that all of our skill levels were accommodated and we were challenged and trained to the level of our ability. Every day we learned something new and she is a fountain of knowledge, full of tips and tricks. Christine's experience in performing really comes through. There was a combination of lots of aerial silks and options of flying trapeze(!!), yoga, and activities like hiking and surfing. There was no shortage of exercise to push your fitness limits as much as you would like to.
Aside from the silks, I also greatly enjoyed the training from Jonathon on the flying trapeze (which I tried for the first time) and info session on aerial rigging, which is something I think that most aerialists don't pay enough attention to.
The end of the retreat culminated in an aerial silks show that we performed in that was advertised in the nearby towns. It was an improv show meaning we hadn't heard the songs before and made an act to go with the song on the spot! At first I was a bit nervous about the idea but it turned out to be a highlight. How many people in the world can say they have performed an aerial show in Costa Rica and wowed the local audience?
I appreciated the touch of having a photographer and videographer as well. It's so nice to have something to remember such a unique experience by.
I plan to make it back there one day.
Thank-you Christine and Jonathan!
~Benjamin C~
“Swing like a monkey - soar like a toucan”
From the moment I rounded the corner, entering Dominical, I was INSPIRED. Inspired by the 30 ft high flying trapeze - something I never had the chance to try. I had to know more... was it a performance, was this for private classes. Then, there was the sign classes mornings and evenings!! So, I waltzed in a threw a ton of questions about safety, minimum age, experience needed. After collecting my answers, I decided go for it and bring the kiddos, too.
I could go on and on about how much I loved the experience - but the best part... watching the kids. Seeing them overcome doubt, conquering fear, and learning to love a new activity, that's what every parent lives for.
The instructors are wonderful - so nice to have such talent in the area. I am amazed to see how well they work with all ages and abilities.
Flying trapeze is right up there with the other great activities this magical rainforest has to offer. If you love thrill-seeker activities like surfing, whitewater rafting, zip lining, hiking, anything active, I highly recommend this. Maybe you'll even become a "frequent Flyer" like my family!!!
~Kelley S~
"Put some adventure in your travel"
To be honest, I was a bit nervous on the long car ride from Dominical to Airborne Arts... But our journey was rewarded by breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains and the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica! Our short two night stay included sloth, toucan and ant-eater sightings!! My boyfriend and I had a quiet stay, got in some trapeze lessons, enjoyed the scrumptious meals provided by Jonathon and Christine and had an epic hike to the nearby waterfalls! I'd give this place the highest review possible anyway, but what really made our stay here over-the-top was the care with which we were treated by the owners. I have never met such kind and open people! These two have such an eye for detail and beauty, they have created the perfect backdrop for relaxing and/or challenging yourself to some aerial drills! : ) The only thing I thought was missing was a pool... And I heard a couple of weeks ago that Airborne Arts just broke ground on just that! Now we REALLY can't wait to get back!
~Cat W~
"Truly a unique family experience"
We have a family of 6. 4 children ranging from 10 to 4 years old and no wanted to leave after being there for four days. We live in Costa Rica, and I can tell you this spot is one of the most magical and awe inspiring valleys in the country. The perfecting setting for flying high on a trapeze. Jonathan and Chrissy were amazing. All of our kids did the trapeze, including our 4 year old. It will be a memory they have for the rest of their lives.
We stayed in the "dorm room" and loved it. It was perfect for our family. The food was amazing. Prepared by Sarah, a local chef and master of local delicatessen. A lot of the food was grown on the property.
We did classes in the silks and hand to hand acrobatics, along with the trapeze.
We can't wait to come back and continue our training. Being a family of 6 we have always felt like a traveling circus. But now this could become a reality for us:-)
~Tyler M~
"Why aren't I still there?!?!"
Oh my..... I wish I could give this place more than 5 stars. I started a 6-week trip around Central America with a week-long aerial retreat at Airborne Arts and, now back in the UK, I can say it was the most memorable of all my different experiences.
The retreat: Christine, an exceptional aerialist and wonderful teacher, provided a supportive and exciting training environment. She is so generous with her skills and knowledge, and attentive to her students' requirements. She nurtured and encouraged us all at our own levels. Never have I felt more comfortable experimenting, including during an improvised performance to the local community at the end - a highlight!
But the retreat was more than just the aerial, which I wasn't expecting. Extra excursions were offered, which gave us a unique insight into this beautiful area that is not really on the tourist trail. Surfing on a quiet beach, hiking to a beautiful waterfall, visiting a local coffee plantation. And - my personal favourite - a jungle hike with an overnight stay in a cave behind the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica: an unparalleled experience.
The venue: I remember laughing as we arrived.... the view, and the space, is so beautiful it is funny! Nestled in the side of a lush and beautiful valley, I was happy just sitting for hours and looking out across the scenery. The garden attracts spectacular butterflies and toucan birds. Howler monkeys are nearby and their calls, along with the cicadas, provide jungle background noise. I stayed in the Aerial Lodge - a stunning cabin underneath the aerial platform. I loved it. Cozy and right on the edge of the jungle. The views, the sounds.....
The hosts: Christine and Jonathan have built this place with love, and they want to share it. I felt like I was being welcomed by old friends - and certainly hope to have made long-term friends. Unlike any other place (with the exception of Equilibrio in Nicaragua), part of the experience is about getting to know and spending time with this wonderful couple. The life they have built - and want you to experience - is full of warmth.
Leaving was truly sad. This retreat really has to be experienced to be believed.
~Nicola F~
“Nature's gem: feast for body & soul”
My one week stay at Airborne Arts was a feast for the body and soul; plenty of opportunity to commune with nature and work out to your body's delight. Christine & Jonathon were the most gracious hosts and took me on like family, going out of their way to make sure my stay was comfortable and inviting me along on their outings. I took 10 classes, mostly beginner aerials; despite being an elite athlete and accomplished aerial artist, Christine's patience, humility, and attentive instruction were remarkable. The lush and unique property provided both tranquility and a hub of action in the valley, and I look forward to visiting again! Thank you dynamic duo C & J.
~Angel B~
“Fun flying in the jungle”
Friendly staff, beautiful location. I'm glad we ventured into the Baru valley from Dominical because it was really a stunning place. We didn't do any aerial while we were there but we received a tour of the lodgings for people who wanted to stay there while in Costa Rica and it was really lovely.
~Nikki H~
“Breathtaking”
I went to Airborne Arts for an aerial retreat! I stayed for a week at this Magical place. It was so beautiful in the middle of the jungle overlooking a waterfall. I saw toucans and ate really healthy food. I recommend finding transportation to the location or renting a car with 4 wheel drive. It is the most gorgeous place to do aerial arts or just relax and enjoy the beautiful property. Christine and Jonathon were so helpful and welcoming. I left feeling like family and cannot wait to return!
~Christine P~
"First timer, great experience"
I am a 60 year old woman drawn to activities that are unusual and/or challenging and that I can't find just anywhere. this one really fit the bill. I thought I had done all the interesting excursions in this area over the 5 years I've been coming here. I found this place and was super happy with everything. It was much more strenuous than I expected but was really fun and I felt totally safe the whole time. My husband didn't participate but took some great pictures and videos. The owner and his helpers were really great and so welcoming and patient. I would definitely recommend it even if you have no experience at all like me!
~Patti O~
“Our family had a blast!”
We are a family of four - mom and dad and a 10 yr. old girl and 14 yr. old boy. Our daughter chose this experience and our son came along reluctantly. He ended up having as much fun as the rest of us. We are in Dominical for three more weeks and I think we are going to try to go back and do it again before we leave.
~Tim H~
“Aerial paradise”
There is no other way to describe Airborne Arts than a paradise for aerialists. Where to begin? Well we came to Costa Rica to perform for an aerial event and some free days at the end of our trip so we came out to stay for 2 nights. The owners, Jonathan and Christine, were hospitable, welcoming, friendly, funny and so passionate about why they are in Costa Rica doing what they are doing. We arrived at night, so we had no idea what it all looked like until the morning. OMG!! To wake up to that kind of beauty is unreal: lush jungle vegetation all around, a waterfall across the valley, sounds of frogs, birds and monkeys, the most dreamy static aerial playground and flying trapeze you could even imagine! We had a flying trapeze lesson in the morning with Jonathan, it was my 2nd time trying and I had a blast and feel like I learned so much. I trust him completely, he is so skilled at what he does. Later, Christine and Jonathan took us hiking to a gorgeous waterfall in the afternoon. We even had a personal chef who was hired to feed us; organic fresh smoothies, vegan, vegetarian and regular meals that fed our souls! :) The lodging was comfortable; they have put so much of themselves into the design and style of the home. It feels so eclectic and creative. This was such an incredible experience I would recommend it to anyone coming to the area...whether you are an aerialist or not... you can be a total beginner and they for sure can accommodate you and teach you the beauty of flying!
~Lesley V~
“Don't Wait!”
As I approach my 60th birthday, I never would have imagined that at this point of my life I would be experiencing a childhood dream ...to fly! How lucky I am to have this incredible opportunity, at a spectacular location and with such fabulous people. Never did I feel less than 100% safe and always did I feel encouraged and confident that I could do this and I did! Very professional and competent instruction and staff...the best in the business. So, swinging in the air is one thing, but swinging from my legs, letting go and being "caught" is yet another..all captured on video! I feel part of a new family. I am ready to bring it to the next level. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to experience an opportunity of a lifetime and to feel very much alive. It's never too late!
~Jim S~
“What a blast!!!”
Our whole family scheduled a class with Jonathan. It was one of the top highlights of our trip, for sure!!!! He was great with all ages and levels of expertise (and ours was pretty darn low :)) - 45 year old out of shape mom, 47 year old dad, 15 year old son and 10 year old daughter. It was a blast for all of us. Beautiful location (unbelievable views of the falls), amazing trapeze "rig," talented and very conscious staff, gorgeous main house to visit, and on and on.
~Poddfam~
“Aerial Heaven!”
Jonathon and Christine are two of the nicest people we've met in Costa Rica. Their aerial set-up, patient instructing methods and world-class experience made our trapeze experience INCREDIBLE! Don't think you can trapeze? We didn't either but left completing many basic tricks that were extremely exhilarating. Give it a shot! Bigger rush that zipline...
~Stanford S~
“Amazing first trapeze experience”
The location is absolutely beautiful! The trapeze rig is set up outside with a view to both the coast and to the 600' Diamante waterfall. This was my first time trying the trapeze and I enjoyed it so much I'm doing it at home too! I was a little nervous about the height and about if I'd have the strength to hang on to the bar and do anything (other than fall) but didn't have any issues once I started. Everyone was very encouraging and made it a really fun experience; even when the tricks didn't go exactly as they were supposed to. Jonathan was an excellent teacher! He gave me pointers/tips so that I was able to improve each time I went up the ladder.
~Jessica H~
“A MUST - do not miss this if your in Costa Rica!!”
Just awesome! Jonathan and his team are wonderful. My 7 and 9 year-old children and I took a two hour lesson while we were in the Dominical area. It was just a bit hard to find but the directions they give are very detailed and easy to follow. The staff was very professional and you can tell they just love what they do. The backdrop of this location makes it even that much more amazing. We will be back and who knows I might even sign up for one of their weeks away during the winter! Seriously - don't miss this!!
~Blgalarza~
“Beautiful location and a fantastic team of flyers!”
Jonathan and Chris made us feel right at home. I did not expect that we would get to try flying, but that is exactly what we did. After teaching us some basic skills, my 15 year old daughter and I both flew by trapeze to the safety of our amazing catcher. They were so very patient with my 8 year old that he got to give the trapeze a go as well. The drive up is beautiful and once you arrive it is like entering a magical little world. Very highly recommend this experience!
~Lisa A~
“Amazing location to do flying trapeze and aerial silks”
We stayed on site with Chrissy and Jonathon and did flying trapeze and aerial silks lessons. They were the perfect hosts, and we were served fresh delicious organic home cooked food every day.There was no need to find a restaurant as their food was of such high quality and it would have been disappointing to eat elsewhere. The room we stayed in was very comfortable and the house, aerial deck and trapeze has spectacular views of the waterfall and surrounding mountains. The climate is great for aerials; not too hot as it is in the mountains above the sea. Both are amazing aerial coaches and I got so much out of taking lessons with both of them. Chrissy is a world class aerialist and acrobat and travels all of the world to perform. Jonathon started Trapeze School New York and is great at coaching all levels of flying trapeze. There is plenty to do outside of aerials- hikes to waterfalls, surfing in Dominical and two national parks close by (Ballena and Manuel Antonia) to mention a few. This was our favourite area of Costa Rica as it is secluded without many tourists. You are also likely to see Costa Rican wildlife in their backyard. We stayed a week but could have easily stayed longer.
~Simsimanna~
“One of a kind experience!”
The views are amazing. And, the experience is, hands down, the coolest thing to do in this area. The staff was very friendly and encouraging. We had an absolute blast with Jonathan, Christina, Alex and Jesse!
~Jennifer K~
“Excellent alternative fitness activity”
We had a great time here and definitely plan to return. Very professional. Very effective coaching. As an athlete and coach myself, I appreciated the challenge that the trapeze presented, combined with the knowledgeable staff for an activity that many people would think out of their reach and comfort zone. This is not so... Don't be intimidated. Give this a try!!!! Amazing experience overall!
~Myron G~
“Great Family Fun!”
What a great experience we had today at Airborne Arts! We could never have imagined doing something so exciting. They have excellent instructor and it was so easy to do! Even the youngest kids loved it. Highly recommend this experience!
~Carla D~
“Great Fun!”
Great Fun and Great instructors, very friendly and will have you trapezing in style no matter what you abilities are. A real adrenaline rush, highly recommended!
~Thereal mjl~
“Wonderful!”
Our teenage daughter and her friend had a great time here. The insructors tailored the experince to the skill level of the partcipants perfectly.
~Bryan B~
“When else are you gonna do it, when your younger?”
Last week I was in Costa Rica paragliding along the coast with a group of friends from the states.
As we turned down the road to our hotel, I noticed some young athletes swinging and flying on a circus sized trapeze towering high above the ground, complete with safety nets.
Immediately, I demanded my buddy to stop the car, as this was something I had always wanted to try and this place had all the proper safety gear to do so. As we stood by the road watching a routine complete, I was hoping they would consider adding a last minute student. When the instructor (Donovan) was free, he offered me to join the lesson in progress and to make whatever donation I felt comfortable with.
Before I knew it, I was donning a harness and was climbing a thirty foot ladder. This is the good part. You see, over the years I've enjoyed many exciting sports and activities that require skill and eye hand coordination, but most of the time the instructors are alpha males who have egos that leave more of a lasting memory than the event itself. This was completely the opposite with Donovan and crew. These young people were very patient and courteous, encouraging me, that once my full flip was achieved they egged me on for the big catch. Yes, that's right in less than an hours' time I was considering swinging from a trapeze by my knees and letting go, only to be caught by the arms of a complete stranger.
It didn't take much to talk me into it, but after one failed attempt they wouldn't let me quit without one more try. So with a lot more chalk and a little more timing and focus I was flying and successfully caught by my new friend Daniel. As I departed, I donated the last handful of US dollars I had with me and wished I had more to give.
My only regret is, I didn't find this until the end of my trip, as I would have loved to have spent days there building strength and skill. Airborne Arts does everything possible to help you afford, and safely enjoy a once in a lifetime experience. If you're in Costa Rica make the drive to Dominical and don't miss flying in safety.
~Yeager~
“Best Trapeze Rig in Dominical”
By far the most experienced trapeze staff in Dominical! Really knowledgable and friendly. I am spending quite a bit of time in Dominical with my friends, and we have made going to the trapeze rig an every day thing!
~Donovan C~
I was looking for an aerial retreat in a tropical area with an accomplished instructor, and Airborne Arts fit the bill perfectly.
I had a lot of questions and Christine answered all of them quickly and efficiently. She is very patient and attentive to all of the students' needs in everything from the training to the food and accommodations AND she is a renowned world class aerialist! Just look up Christine Van Loo on Google or Wikipedia. Most of all Christine and her husband Jonathon are the best people. They are generous and caring spirits, and really go out of their way to make you feel welcome in the aerial paradise they have created.
The property itself has a custom-made unique building architecture surrounded by lush green jungle overlooking a beautiful valley. The on-site chef Sarah was a star, preparing healthy locally sourced amazing dishes of every kind, catering to our every need! I would be thankful to eat like that any day.
Having practiced aerial silks for one year, I was still fairly new; some of the students had less experience and some had much more. Christine was great in making sure that all of our skill levels were accommodated and we were challenged and trained to the level of our ability. Every day we learned something new and she is a fountain of knowledge, full of tips and tricks. Christine's experience in performing really comes through. There was a combination of lots of aerial silks and options of flying trapeze(!!), yoga, and activities like hiking and surfing. There was no shortage of exercise to push your fitness limits as much as you would like to.
Aside from the silks, I also greatly enjoyed the training from Jonathon on the flying trapeze (which I tried for the first time) and info session on aerial rigging, which is something I think that most aerialists don't pay enough attention to.
The end of the retreat culminated in an aerial silks show that we performed in that was advertised in the nearby towns. It was an improv show meaning we hadn't heard the songs before and made an act to go with the song on the spot! At first I was a bit nervous about the idea but it turned out to be a highlight. How many people in the world can say they have performed an aerial show in Costa Rica and wowed the local audience?
I appreciated the touch of having a photographer and videographer as well. It's so nice to have something to remember such a unique experience by.
I plan to make it back there one day.
Thank-you Christine and Jonathan!
~Benjamin C~
“Swing like a monkey - soar like a toucan”
From the moment I rounded the corner, entering Dominical, I was INSPIRED. Inspired by the 30 ft high flying trapeze - something I never had the chance to try. I had to know more... was it a performance, was this for private classes. Then, there was the sign classes mornings and evenings!! So, I waltzed in a threw a ton of questions about safety, minimum age, experience needed. After collecting my answers, I decided go for it and bring the kiddos, too.
I could go on and on about how much I loved the experience - but the best part... watching the kids. Seeing them overcome doubt, conquering fear, and learning to love a new activity, that's what every parent lives for.
The instructors are wonderful - so nice to have such talent in the area. I am amazed to see how well they work with all ages and abilities.
Flying trapeze is right up there with the other great activities this magical rainforest has to offer. If you love thrill-seeker activities like surfing, whitewater rafting, zip lining, hiking, anything active, I highly recommend this. Maybe you'll even become a "frequent Flyer" like my family!!!
~Kelley S~
"Put some adventure in your travel"
To be honest, I was a bit nervous on the long car ride from Dominical to Airborne Arts... But our journey was rewarded by breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains and the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica! Our short two night stay included sloth, toucan and ant-eater sightings!! My boyfriend and I had a quiet stay, got in some trapeze lessons, enjoyed the scrumptious meals provided by Jonathon and Christine and had an epic hike to the nearby waterfalls! I'd give this place the highest review possible anyway, but what really made our stay here over-the-top was the care with which we were treated by the owners. I have never met such kind and open people! These two have such an eye for detail and beauty, they have created the perfect backdrop for relaxing and/or challenging yourself to some aerial drills! : ) The only thing I thought was missing was a pool... And I heard a couple of weeks ago that Airborne Arts just broke ground on just that! Now we REALLY can't wait to get back!
~Cat W~
"Truly a unique family experience"
We have a family of 6. 4 children ranging from 10 to 4 years old and no wanted to leave after being there for four days. We live in Costa Rica, and I can tell you this spot is one of the most magical and awe inspiring valleys in the country. The perfecting setting for flying high on a trapeze. Jonathan and Chrissy were amazing. All of our kids did the trapeze, including our 4 year old. It will be a memory they have for the rest of their lives.
We stayed in the "dorm room" and loved it. It was perfect for our family. The food was amazing. Prepared by Sarah, a local chef and master of local delicatessen. A lot of the food was grown on the property.
We did classes in the silks and hand to hand acrobatics, along with the trapeze.
We can't wait to come back and continue our training. Being a family of 6 we have always felt like a traveling circus. But now this could become a reality for us:-)
~Tyler M~
"Why aren't I still there?!?!"
Oh my..... I wish I could give this place more than 5 stars. I started a 6-week trip around Central America with a week-long aerial retreat at Airborne Arts and, now back in the UK, I can say it was the most memorable of all my different experiences.
The retreat: Christine, an exceptional aerialist and wonderful teacher, provided a supportive and exciting training environment. She is so generous with her skills and knowledge, and attentive to her students' requirements. She nurtured and encouraged us all at our own levels. Never have I felt more comfortable experimenting, including during an improvised performance to the local community at the end - a highlight!
But the retreat was more than just the aerial, which I wasn't expecting. Extra excursions were offered, which gave us a unique insight into this beautiful area that is not really on the tourist trail. Surfing on a quiet beach, hiking to a beautiful waterfall, visiting a local coffee plantation. And - my personal favourite - a jungle hike with an overnight stay in a cave behind the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica: an unparalleled experience.
The venue: I remember laughing as we arrived.... the view, and the space, is so beautiful it is funny! Nestled in the side of a lush and beautiful valley, I was happy just sitting for hours and looking out across the scenery. The garden attracts spectacular butterflies and toucan birds. Howler monkeys are nearby and their calls, along with the cicadas, provide jungle background noise. I stayed in the Aerial Lodge - a stunning cabin underneath the aerial platform. I loved it. Cozy and right on the edge of the jungle. The views, the sounds.....
The hosts: Christine and Jonathan have built this place with love, and they want to share it. I felt like I was being welcomed by old friends - and certainly hope to have made long-term friends. Unlike any other place (with the exception of Equilibrio in Nicaragua), part of the experience is about getting to know and spending time with this wonderful couple. The life they have built - and want you to experience - is full of warmth.
Leaving was truly sad. This retreat really has to be experienced to be believed.
~Nicola F~
“Nature's gem: feast for body & soul”
My one week stay at Airborne Arts was a feast for the body and soul; plenty of opportunity to commune with nature and work out to your body's delight. Christine & Jonathon were the most gracious hosts and took me on like family, going out of their way to make sure my stay was comfortable and inviting me along on their outings. I took 10 classes, mostly beginner aerials; despite being an elite athlete and accomplished aerial artist, Christine's patience, humility, and attentive instruction were remarkable. The lush and unique property provided both tranquility and a hub of action in the valley, and I look forward to visiting again! Thank you dynamic duo C & J.
~Angel B~
“Fun flying in the jungle”
Friendly staff, beautiful location. I'm glad we ventured into the Baru valley from Dominical because it was really a stunning place. We didn't do any aerial while we were there but we received a tour of the lodgings for people who wanted to stay there while in Costa Rica and it was really lovely.
~Nikki H~
“Breathtaking”
I went to Airborne Arts for an aerial retreat! I stayed for a week at this Magical place. It was so beautiful in the middle of the jungle overlooking a waterfall. I saw toucans and ate really healthy food. I recommend finding transportation to the location or renting a car with 4 wheel drive. It is the most gorgeous place to do aerial arts or just relax and enjoy the beautiful property. Christine and Jonathon were so helpful and welcoming. I left feeling like family and cannot wait to return!
~Christine P~
"First timer, great experience"
I am a 60 year old woman drawn to activities that are unusual and/or challenging and that I can't find just anywhere. this one really fit the bill. I thought I had done all the interesting excursions in this area over the 5 years I've been coming here. I found this place and was super happy with everything. It was much more strenuous than I expected but was really fun and I felt totally safe the whole time. My husband didn't participate but took some great pictures and videos. The owner and his helpers were really great and so welcoming and patient. I would definitely recommend it even if you have no experience at all like me!
~Patti O~
“Our family had a blast!”
We are a family of four - mom and dad and a 10 yr. old girl and 14 yr. old boy. Our daughter chose this experience and our son came along reluctantly. He ended up having as much fun as the rest of us. We are in Dominical for three more weeks and I think we are going to try to go back and do it again before we leave.
~Tim H~
“Aerial paradise”
There is no other way to describe Airborne Arts than a paradise for aerialists. Where to begin? Well we came to Costa Rica to perform for an aerial event and some free days at the end of our trip so we came out to stay for 2 nights. The owners, Jonathan and Christine, were hospitable, welcoming, friendly, funny and so passionate about why they are in Costa Rica doing what they are doing. We arrived at night, so we had no idea what it all looked like until the morning. OMG!! To wake up to that kind of beauty is unreal: lush jungle vegetation all around, a waterfall across the valley, sounds of frogs, birds and monkeys, the most dreamy static aerial playground and flying trapeze you could even imagine! We had a flying trapeze lesson in the morning with Jonathan, it was my 2nd time trying and I had a blast and feel like I learned so much. I trust him completely, he is so skilled at what he does. Later, Christine and Jonathan took us hiking to a gorgeous waterfall in the afternoon. We even had a personal chef who was hired to feed us; organic fresh smoothies, vegan, vegetarian and regular meals that fed our souls! :) The lodging was comfortable; they have put so much of themselves into the design and style of the home. It feels so eclectic and creative. This was such an incredible experience I would recommend it to anyone coming to the area...whether you are an aerialist or not... you can be a total beginner and they for sure can accommodate you and teach you the beauty of flying!
~Lesley V~
“Don't Wait!”
As I approach my 60th birthday, I never would have imagined that at this point of my life I would be experiencing a childhood dream ...to fly! How lucky I am to have this incredible opportunity, at a spectacular location and with such fabulous people. Never did I feel less than 100% safe and always did I feel encouraged and confident that I could do this and I did! Very professional and competent instruction and staff...the best in the business. So, swinging in the air is one thing, but swinging from my legs, letting go and being "caught" is yet another..all captured on video! I feel part of a new family. I am ready to bring it to the next level. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to experience an opportunity of a lifetime and to feel very much alive. It's never too late!
~Jim S~
“What a blast!!!”
Our whole family scheduled a class with Jonathan. It was one of the top highlights of our trip, for sure!!!! He was great with all ages and levels of expertise (and ours was pretty darn low :)) - 45 year old out of shape mom, 47 year old dad, 15 year old son and 10 year old daughter. It was a blast for all of us. Beautiful location (unbelievable views of the falls), amazing trapeze "rig," talented and very conscious staff, gorgeous main house to visit, and on and on.
~Poddfam~
“Aerial Heaven!”
Jonathon and Christine are two of the nicest people we've met in Costa Rica. Their aerial set-up, patient instructing methods and world-class experience made our trapeze experience INCREDIBLE! Don't think you can trapeze? We didn't either but left completing many basic tricks that were extremely exhilarating. Give it a shot! Bigger rush that zipline...
~Stanford S~
“Amazing first trapeze experience”
The location is absolutely beautiful! The trapeze rig is set up outside with a view to both the coast and to the 600' Diamante waterfall. This was my first time trying the trapeze and I enjoyed it so much I'm doing it at home too! I was a little nervous about the height and about if I'd have the strength to hang on to the bar and do anything (other than fall) but didn't have any issues once I started. Everyone was very encouraging and made it a really fun experience; even when the tricks didn't go exactly as they were supposed to. Jonathan was an excellent teacher! He gave me pointers/tips so that I was able to improve each time I went up the ladder.
~Jessica H~
“A MUST - do not miss this if your in Costa Rica!!”
Just awesome! Jonathan and his team are wonderful. My 7 and 9 year-old children and I took a two hour lesson while we were in the Dominical area. It was just a bit hard to find but the directions they give are very detailed and easy to follow. The staff was very professional and you can tell they just love what they do. The backdrop of this location makes it even that much more amazing. We will be back and who knows I might even sign up for one of their weeks away during the winter! Seriously - don't miss this!!
~Blgalarza~
“Beautiful location and a fantastic team of flyers!”
Jonathan and Chris made us feel right at home. I did not expect that we would get to try flying, but that is exactly what we did. After teaching us some basic skills, my 15 year old daughter and I both flew by trapeze to the safety of our amazing catcher. They were so very patient with my 8 year old that he got to give the trapeze a go as well. The drive up is beautiful and once you arrive it is like entering a magical little world. Very highly recommend this experience!
~Lisa A~
“Amazing location to do flying trapeze and aerial silks”
We stayed on site with Chrissy and Jonathon and did flying trapeze and aerial silks lessons. They were the perfect hosts, and we were served fresh delicious organic home cooked food every day.There was no need to find a restaurant as their food was of such high quality and it would have been disappointing to eat elsewhere. The room we stayed in was very comfortable and the house, aerial deck and trapeze has spectacular views of the waterfall and surrounding mountains. The climate is great for aerials; not too hot as it is in the mountains above the sea. Both are amazing aerial coaches and I got so much out of taking lessons with both of them. Chrissy is a world class aerialist and acrobat and travels all of the world to perform. Jonathon started Trapeze School New York and is great at coaching all levels of flying trapeze. There is plenty to do outside of aerials- hikes to waterfalls, surfing in Dominical and two national parks close by (Ballena and Manuel Antonia) to mention a few. This was our favourite area of Costa Rica as it is secluded without many tourists. You are also likely to see Costa Rican wildlife in their backyard. We stayed a week but could have easily stayed longer.
~Simsimanna~
“One of a kind experience!”
The views are amazing. And, the experience is, hands down, the coolest thing to do in this area. The staff was very friendly and encouraging. We had an absolute blast with Jonathan, Christina, Alex and Jesse!
~Jennifer K~
“Excellent alternative fitness activity”
We had a great time here and definitely plan to return. Very professional. Very effective coaching. As an athlete and coach myself, I appreciated the challenge that the trapeze presented, combined with the knowledgeable staff for an activity that many people would think out of their reach and comfort zone. This is not so... Don't be intimidated. Give this a try!!!! Amazing experience overall!
~Myron G~
“Great Family Fun!”
What a great experience we had today at Airborne Arts! We could never have imagined doing something so exciting. They have excellent instructor and it was so easy to do! Even the youngest kids loved it. Highly recommend this experience!
~Carla D~
“Great Fun!”
Great Fun and Great instructors, very friendly and will have you trapezing in style no matter what you abilities are. A real adrenaline rush, highly recommended!
~Thereal mjl~
“Wonderful!”
Our teenage daughter and her friend had a great time here. The insructors tailored the experince to the skill level of the partcipants perfectly.
~Bryan B~
“When else are you gonna do it, when your younger?”
Last week I was in Costa Rica paragliding along the coast with a group of friends from the states.
As we turned down the road to our hotel, I noticed some young athletes swinging and flying on a circus sized trapeze towering high above the ground, complete with safety nets.
Immediately, I demanded my buddy to stop the car, as this was something I had always wanted to try and this place had all the proper safety gear to do so. As we stood by the road watching a routine complete, I was hoping they would consider adding a last minute student. When the instructor (Donovan) was free, he offered me to join the lesson in progress and to make whatever donation I felt comfortable with.
Before I knew it, I was donning a harness and was climbing a thirty foot ladder. This is the good part. You see, over the years I've enjoyed many exciting sports and activities that require skill and eye hand coordination, but most of the time the instructors are alpha males who have egos that leave more of a lasting memory than the event itself. This was completely the opposite with Donovan and crew. These young people were very patient and courteous, encouraging me, that once my full flip was achieved they egged me on for the big catch. Yes, that's right in less than an hours' time I was considering swinging from a trapeze by my knees and letting go, only to be caught by the arms of a complete stranger.
It didn't take much to talk me into it, but after one failed attempt they wouldn't let me quit without one more try. So with a lot more chalk and a little more timing and focus I was flying and successfully caught by my new friend Daniel. As I departed, I donated the last handful of US dollars I had with me and wished I had more to give.
My only regret is, I didn't find this until the end of my trip, as I would have loved to have spent days there building strength and skill. Airborne Arts does everything possible to help you afford, and safely enjoy a once in a lifetime experience. If you're in Costa Rica make the drive to Dominical and don't miss flying in safety.
~Yeager~
“Best Trapeze Rig in Dominical”
By far the most experienced trapeze staff in Dominical! Really knowledgable and friendly. I am spending quite a bit of time in Dominical with my friends, and we have made going to the trapeze rig an every day thing!
~Donovan C~
