Summary

The author shares personal experiences and reflections on capturing seven breathtaking sunsets from various locations around the world between 2016 and 2020.

Abstract

The article recounts the author's encounters with sunsets in different settings, ranging from the rugged Pacific coast of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, to the tranquil Speed River in Guelph, Ontario. Each location is described with a unique perspective, highlighting the beauty and emotions evoked by the sunsets witnessed. The author's journey includes a serene evening in Kincardine, Ontario, a memorable cruise near Cozumel, a winter escape in Lisbon, Portugal, a colorful visit to Burano, Italy, and a poignant late autumn scene in Gravenhurst, Ontario. The piece concludes with the author expressing gratitude for these experiences and the hope that sharing them might inspire others to appreciate or seek out their own sunset memories.

Opinions

The author finds sunsets captivating and considers themselves fortunate to have witnessed and captured these moments.
The Pacific Coast of Mexico offers a different beach experience with deeper blue and rougher waters, but the views are deemed spectacular.
The familiarity of the author's hometown is transformed by the framing of a sunset view, making it seem new and interesting.
Kincardine, Ontario, is praised for its unique charms, including Scottish heritage and a picturesque location, enhancing the sunset experience.
A cruise sunset near Cozumel evokes feelings of satisfaction and melancholy, as it marks the end of a memorable trip.
Lisbon, Portugal, is recommended for a winter getaway, with its pleasant temperatures and lively city atmosphere.
The visit to Burano, Italy, is described as a highlight, with the early summer night and calm water adding to the overall experience.
The author expresses a sense of liberation and gratitude for a late autumn getaway in Gravenhurst, Ontario, during a challenging year.

Surrendering to the Sunset — Seven Sensational Views

Sunsets are some of my favorite things to see and get lost in. I am fortunate to have lovely views of them from my own home, but of course, I love capturing them in my travels and day trips as well. While searching for the sunset category on the camera roll of my phone, I was reminded of a few of these incredible views I’d witnessed that I’d like to share my experience in chronological order.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This photo was taken in 2016 on my first trip to Mexico’s Pacific Coast. I had spent many vacations in earlier years in Cancun, and wanted to experience the Pacific side finally. The deeper blue, rougher waters and coarse sand near the hotel were not ideal for laid-back, long strolls. However, the views from the pool area were spectacular. Gazing out to the ocean during the days and nights while lounging, socializing or just spending some quiet moments were a treasure.

Guelph, Ontario

This unique shot was taken in my hometown in 2017. The view is from one of the windows of a reconstructed wooden Covered Bridge, and the view is of the Speed River. I thought the shot’s framing gave a different perspective to a familiar location I frequented, making it appear new and interesting. The sunset, lush bushy trees, and numerous ducks in the distance added to the allure of this tranquil scene.

Kincardine, Ontario

I recently returned to this charming Ontario beach town on the shores of Lake Huron and enjoyed another sunset, and the serenade of Scottish pipers playing in the historic lighthouse. It is a lovely town for a relaxing getaway, with a few unique charms due to its picturesque location and Scottish heritage. This photo was taken in 2018 on another one night staycation. The blend of the grey clouds, sunset, trees, and gorgeous expanse of white flowers captivated me.

Cruising at Sea, Norwegian Cruise Line

This photo is kind of fun because, unbeknownst to me, a friend was capturing a picture of me trying to capture this sunset moment. I recall this being the last night of this Spring 2018 NCL cruise, and there was the feeling of satisfaction of a wonderful trip filled with memories. There was also some melancholy that my time with new friends was coming to a close, so I am grateful to relive this simple but grand memory of this spectacular view at sea near Cozumel, Mexico.

Near Cozumel, Mexico (Norwegian Getaway) photo by author

Lisbon, Portugal

Time to switch seasons for this next sunset in Lisbon. This trip took place in the depth of winter, January 2019. But what an escape it was, to experience a week of winter in a European city. The temperature can be chilly, yes — but it is pleasant, and while the streets are a little quieter, there is much activity still going on. It was an excellent escape for the culture, beauty, value for money, and to take in a waterfront stroll at sunset after a pleasant day exploring the city.

Burano (Venice), Italy

This stunning view was just another memorable moment to top off a terrific late afternoon and early evening visit (part of the Wonders of Italy tour in 2019) to the beautiful and colorful Burano. The early summer night was a perfect temperature, with the lightest breeze and calm water with the foamy wave views adding to the wow experience on this easy and quick boat ride back to the Lido in Venice.

Gravenhurst, Ontario

Time for a late Autumn view. This sunset photo was taken in 2020 in Gravenhurst (the gateway to Muskoka). While the photo has a mysterious and slightly melancholy look, I think it is also beautiful and bright with the foliage. This was the first time I ventured back to a hotel that year (after an 8 month break from any overnight trips) — and it felt a little bit liberating to finally get away. Even quiet getaways like this were something to be grateful for, and appreciated. The sunset glimmer, the dark pine trees and water, and vibrant foliage captured the blend of the dark but hopeful mood of the year.

It was a nostalgic and pleasant experience to reflect upon these sweet sunset views I captured between 2016 and 2020. I hope some of these views and thoughts sparked interest in these places — or made you reflect on your sunset memories, and provided some pretty views for you to enjoy.