First timer wants soaring description

I'll be taking my first glider ride this week (not soaring, just
gliding) and was wanting a description of what to expect. I've never
flown in anything but a passenger jet, so that's my only frame of
reference. We'll be using an ASK 21 model. I've been told gliding is
like floating down with no sound, but that sounds too easy. What is
the turbulence like? Is it shaky at all? Cold up there? How safe are
the newer gliders? Thanks for any info on what to expect, it is
appreciated.