Thursday 31 July 2014

Experience Romance And History With A Horse Drawn Carriage

By Annabelle Holman


Everyone needs a bit of romance in their life sometimes. There are many different ways to do this but nothing beats opting for a bit of old-fashioned charm. For example, exchange the sound of a car engine with the clippity-clop of a horse drawn carriage and your day will be much more romantic, no matter whether you find yourself in Sherwood Park AB or in Paris, France.

Most often, carriages these days are used as a tourist attraction. They're one of the most popular ways to explore Central Park in New York, for instance. Many living-history and open-air museums offer rides in carriages too and these are often a highlight or young children.

Sometimes the mode of transport is not only there for the benefit of the tourists. It may be one of the only ways to get around in a place. An example is Mackinac Island in Michigan, where the ingredients for the famous fudge are delivered the old-fashioned way due to the fact that there are no cars on the island.

There is no better way to impress a date than with a carriage ride. You may opt for ones already operating in places like Central Park or you may specially hire a vehicle and the horses to pull it. Check the weather, especially if you're planning on riding with the top down, and take a warm blanket just in case. Then surprise your date with some champagne and a delectable picnic.

Horses and carriages don't only add romance to an event. They add pomp and ceremony too. Just look at almost any royal wedding and how not only the bridal couple but the guests too use this mode of transport. Of course you don't need to have blue blood to bring some of this glamour to your own wedding. You just need to contact your local stables.

It was a member of Britain's royal family that helped to turn carriage driving from an old-fashioned mode of transport into the sport known as combined driving. Prince Philip, husband to Queen Elizabeth II, has always been known for his love of horses and his equestrian abilities. He used to play polo but in 1971 took up combined driving, which involves events such as dressage and marathons. He even supervised the compilation of the rules for the sport.

There is a large variety of carriages to choose from and you need to take into account why you would need one. For a wedding or a romantic date, a stately open-top carriage is the way to go. For competitive driving, you need to choose a lightweight vehicle instead. It's also important to remember that not just any horse will be suitable. While thoroughbreds with long and slender legs are perfect for horse-racing, you should opt instead for animals that have a strong, stockier build. They need to be trained in pulling carriages too and it's essential that they're in top condition.

Many cities have stables where you'll be able to rent carriages and horses. An online search will point you in the right direction. You may also try the local business directory. Then you only need to visit the stable, make your choice and be ready to be transported back in time.




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