A Cactus Hot Air Balloon

A quick assessment of the Loves stream shows that we love cacti in every single form. We’ve had all varieties – from your classic potted version to the less conventional neon, sofa, hat, cupcake and bikini iterations. Eternally popular, their reign over the hearts and minds of AnOther’s Lovers continues this week, with this spikily shaped hot air balloon winning the vote for fashion writer Mhairi Graham. Demonstrating an enduring adoration for the most enduring of plants, it also reflects the escapist spirit of the season, as we all dream of travelling to warmer climes, with the ideal scenario being transported there by this majesterial inflatable plant.

Hot air ballooning is humanity’s oldest form of air travel. In September 1783, a sheep, a duck and a rooster became the first creatures to take to the skies, flying for eight minutes over Paris before crashing to earth with the rooster suffering a broken wing. The first successful manned flight took place a few months later, also in Paris, when Pilatre De Rozier and the Marquis D’Arlandes flew for 20 minutes and reached a height of 900 metres. Once the object of scientific endeavour, today aviation technology has so far outstripped the humble balloon that they are now used solely for pleasure – providing a uniquely atmospheric opportunity to rise above the world.

Amid the frenzy of festive celebrations, a bit of peaceful contemplation would be a welcome respite, so in celebration of this spiky inflatable we asked Graham what inspired her love, and to name her favourite travelling moment.

Why did you love this balloon?
I like cacti and I like balloons, so this was the meeting of two greats.

Where would you like it to take you, and who would you have along for the ride?
At present, to a more exotic climate! Or actually, perhaps back to Scotland for Christmas. It would be more chic than the train. I would bring along some fellow Scots and some fizz. 

Other than the obligatory cactus, what would be your dream shape for a hot air balloon?
A horse.

What is your favourite form of transport?
Controversial and not very green, but nothing beats a nice drive.  

What are your tips for rising above it?
I've yet to find a problem that cannot be at least mildly resolved by a cup of tea.

What is your favourite travelling moment in popular culture?
Thelma and Louise, driving into the abyss. Or Charlie in his glass elevator. 

What is your fantasy Christmas present?
The discontinued tartan Céline tote. 

What are you looking forward to about December?
Relaxing at home with my loved ones.

What was the last thing you bought?
Christmas presents for my new baby nephew. He is going be very spoilt!