When Udai was about two years old, we had had our full of Gurgaon’s malls. We barely ever go unless to eat or buy something specific. This Friday, we decided to try the ice skating rink at the Ambience mall in Gurgaon. And we weren’t disappointed.
It’s well organised and wasn’t crowded. You need a pair of socks and you can either carry your own or buy them. The ankle sorts won’t do, you need the regular longer sports socks. You rent skates and you’re all set! The hour plus experience costs Rs 400 plus taxes per person.
The younger kids (they allow kids above three) had a ball! We rented a penguin for them (rental Rs 150), essentially a life size doll with handles they can hold on to so they don’t slip on the ice. Aadyaa promptly went off careening all over the place! Was a treat to watch. The rest of us started with holding the edges and taking tentative steps on the ice. Scary to feel that loss of control but exhilarating when you learn to let go. Udai turned out to be the best of us despite never having ice skated before. He was on the go in about ten minutes and skated the entire hour, picking up speed and improving his control as well. Rahul and me had tried this some twelve years ago in Houston, so we got the hang of it after a bit. I tried to spin around in place and fell on my bottom, which is also a part of the experience. A bunch of young boys skating with us seemed to be having more fun bumping into each other and falling than trying to keep their balance!
All in all, an active and fun outing. Highly recommended for those who like to try new things and don’t mind falling! Don’t worry, there are efficient marshals skating with you who help out and pick you up when you crash. Do carry a light jacket though even if you go in summer. It’s chilly in there unless you are really skating around. It’s good exercise and I thought it was worth the money for a healthy fun family experience.