Wheel of adventure

IT'S always fulfilling to seek and try new things. So, whenever I get a chance to go on adventure, I always make it happen.

Last Tuesday, May 28, Eden Nature Park and Resort introduced its newest extreme attraction -- Skywheel. Apart from being known for its eco and agri-tourism, Eden has been pushing for adventure tourism to cater to a younger and more adventurous generation.

Skywheel is an addition to its famed sky rides -- Skyrider, Skycycle, and Skyswing. I already tried these three rides, so I'm not letting any chances go to try its latest offering. And I'm glad I did.

Honestly, I wasn't really that anxious before the ride as I find it less daunting than Skyswing, which I tried twice in 2015 and 2018.

But I figured I shouldn't compare the new ride to others as it offers different thrill and excitement.

The new attraction is the first in Mindanao that enables guests to walk inside a wheel while it's up 60 feet high. But one should weigh at least 50 kilos to try the 200-meter long ride which will take approximately 15 minutes.

To those who are afraid to try the ride, fret not as trained attendants and operators will ensure every guest's safety significantly enhanced with a body harness and safety gears especially ordered from France. The resort initially offers three wheels that can travel at a time. It is available at P200 per person and is open daily from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday to Sunday.

When the operator signaled me to start walking to move the Skywheel, I told myself to just chill and walk normally. The first few steps were a bit nerve-wracking but when you start to get the balance, you get to enjoy the moment and the view.

But my skywheel was somehow swinging when I reached the middle part, maybe because of the wind and my small steps, so I started to do bigger steps and it worked out. Seconds after, I'm back on my smooth ride. Just a tip, wear rubber shoes and when the wheel starts moving, always keep going, do not stop as you might find it hard to move it again. Just like what I experienced.

The Skywheel ride was definitely one for the books, not to mention it's a good form of exercise. Thrill-ride-enthusiasts and patrons seeking extreme ride experience should try it more than once.

For suggestions, comments, and questions, email me at aceperez.manlalakbay@gmail.com. Follow me @acejunerell.