‘Sunset is the opening music of the night’, said Mehmet Murat ildan. Watching a sunset could be one of the most soulful experiences. Soothing, comforting for most, a little depressing for some. But rarely indifferent and insipid. And never uninspiring!
And some places offer a view of sunset so captivating that they are etched permanently in our memories,. The images linger, the sun stays right on the horizon-not below it, not above it-just right there.
One has known of places that offer the most enchanting view of a sun set, but to describe the best place to watch a sunset, is an interesting twist to the idea. It is an exciting diversion to pit the description of the magnificence of the sunset against the joy of discovering a pretty place from where to watch it.
The privilege of watching a sunset from Santorini, Martha’s Vineyard, Uluru, Venice or Alaska, places known for the most beautiful sunsets, may not be within one’s reach. But the pleasure of watching an enchanting sunset may still be yours, if you just look around.
Conventionally, few locations are universally recognised as the best places to watch a sunset. Beaches and Mountains figure at the top. If one were staying in Hawaii, Waikiki beach would have been the first choice; if one were staying in Australia ,Bondi beach will beckon one irresistibly. The combination of the vast open sky and the calming sound of waves crashing against the shore casts a spell.
Mountain ranges such as the Rocky Mountains or the Swiss Alps too offer breathtaking panoramic views of the sun setting behind the peaks. The added height provides a unique perspective on the sunset and can make for a truly spectacular experience.
Parks and Gardens, Bridges and Waterfronts, are yet some other venues to enjoy great sunsets. The openness of space, the unobstructed view, the greenery, the natural ambience, all add up to enhance the stunning display of colours as the golden disc plunges into the depths of darkness. One may not be so fortunate to enjoy It from Keukenhof Gardens of Netherland, or Golden Gate Bridge of San Francisco, or the Chicago Lake front, yet there could be a thousand other parks, gardens and bridges that can delight you with uniquely picturesque setting.
But when I learnt that places like the Empire State Building in New York or the CN Tower in Toronto, reportedly offer breathtaking views of the sun setting over the cityscape, the idea of exploring roof tops of tall buildings caught my fancy. The effort paid rich dividend and today I can claim of watching some of the most magical sunsets from the roof tops.
Observing a sunset from a roof top can be a truly mesmerising experience. The one aspect that makes this experience richer and fuller than the ones from other venues is that the view from the top of a tall building or roof terrace can provide a stunning 360-degree perspective on the sunset.
The sky transforms into a canvas of brilliant hues, painting the world with an array of oranges, pinks, purples and blues. As the sun dips below the horizon, its rays dance across the sky, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The changing light creates shadows, elongating and softening the contours of the surrounding buildings, trees and other structures.
The sounds of the city momentarily but magically fade away, replaced by the tranquility of a still time. The cool breeze caresses you, at times carrying with it the sweet redolence of the surrounding vegetation below. The hustle and bustle of the city seems far away, and you are transported to a world of peace and serenity.
As the sun continues its descent, the sky transforms into a deeper shade of orange and pink, before finally becoming a deep shade of purple and blue. The stars slowly emerge, first as dull diamond specs and then gaining a bright twinkle spread across the firmament. And as you linger a while, an ensorcelling moon slowly rises in the sky, casting a soft luminescence, mesmerising and mystical.
A rare tranquility envelopes you. The world is a little bit brighter and more beautiful because you have had the privilege of witnessing this stunning colour play of nature.
Sunsets may be loved because they vanish but they stand so eloquently for the beauty and majesty of nature. It is a moment of reflection and gratitude, as you connect with the elements. It overwhelms you with wonder, even veneration; and fills you with a rare serenity and peace , sublime and soothing.
The sunset from a roof top is a magical moment that you will never forget, and one that will stay with you forever.
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