The decider I was wanting to do an AFF course, so I got on the lap top and typed in AFF course in Europe. I showed interest in three places that offered AFF courses and Free Fall University was amongst my selected. I didn’t read any reviews on any of the Dropzones that I had contacted. FFU were the only DZ to call me back almost immediately. (The others just emailed) For somebody that knows nothing about skydiving or the place that they were considering traveling to, that call was the reassurance that one needed, it made the deal. David answered all my questions and organised everything from pick up to drop off. That was that, everything was booked, nice and easy. The Journey My ride to the airport was late, the handle on my suit case broke, none of which was caused by FFU. So far luck didn’t seem to be on my side, I started to think that maybe this wasn’t such a good idea! However I managed to make the flight. (Whoop) I had opted for train station transfers, the information that David had supplied was partly incorrect. The prices of the train fares were inaccurate, and however the directions and instructions were fine. Once I boarded the train, I text the number, sat back and enjoyed the view. I arrived at Aranjuez station and made my way to the pickup point, 15 to 20 minutes passed and there was still no sign of the driver. I called the number that I was instructed to text and some Spanish man that did not know a word of English answered my call! Oh no, it’s all going wrong again! Luckily there was a second number that had been supplied, titled “in case of emergency”. I called the number and the familiar voice answered “David”. 20 minutes later the driver was there. The transfer service is efficient, George is the first face you see and in my opinion this makes him the most valuable and certainly key member of the team. George is great, he is always willing to help, and he goes that step further to accommodate. Accommodation There are several options presented to you. My preference was to stay at a hotel. Hotel Real, the breakfast wasn’t anything special and there was confusion about whether or not breakfast was included in the room price. Some days I paid others I did not, I didn’t make a fuss. It’s safe and clean, the staff are friendly, helpful and obviously use to sky divers. It is in an ideal location, with plenty of restaurants and bars. The DropZone Now let’s be mindful of the fact that I am unable to make a comparison to other DZ’s, so let’s go with the basics. The DZ had instructors, parachutes, planes, a place to eat, somewhere to sit, toilets etc. It supplied everything that I had signed up for (whoop). On arrival I did not realise the extent of talent and passion that this DZ has. The enthusiasm, support, commitment, understanding, patients, dedication and pride that every member showed is commendable. There are no egos, just one big family watching your back. Every single member of staff was welcoming, and willing to give advice. I felt like I was at home, surrounded by friends, which helps settle ones nerves. My main instructor Paula (world champion, by the way) not once did I feel judged, her feedback and advice was always sound and honest. She is a totally awesome dudette. The landing area is huge, although I nearly missed it a few times and watch out for the beer line. Over View Whether you except this statement or not, is your choice! “Opinions are formed and judgements are made in accordance with our own experiences and preferences”. My decision of location was made on a simple phone call. That phone call generated an opinion, it set FFU apart from the others, giving the place a personal touch. The DZ serves its purpose and it does what it says on the tin. The staff are professional and friendly, with open minds and open arms. During my visits, I met lots of fun jumpers and other students, most of which had been back time and time again (for the life of me, I can’t think why! Lol) Never in my life, have I ever meet so many down to earth awesome people in one place. A big thanks to everyone at Ocana but a special thanks to, George, Paula, Stevo, Phil, Adi, Antonia, biscuit and all “Komsu Komsu”. The only negative about the whole trip was the weather. My advice for AFF’s is don’t go in what we Brits consider the winter months, otherwise you may have to return several times in order to complete your AFF (which isn’t such a bad thing after all). Oh and the information given to people that opt for train transfers needs updating. Note; I may not be able to compare this DZ with another right now, but all DZ will now be compared to Ocana. It is absolutely fabulous, but don’t take my word for it, go see for yourselves. Love and light from a 33 year old female who travelled alone to Free Fall University Ocana Spain.
