TRAVEL SPECIAL ....Travel to Rise

Travel to Rise

Even if you aren’t an early riser, some destinations look so gorgeous at sunrise that you’ll skip hitting snooze

With our busy lives, we often miss the opportunity to admire the splendid phenomena of sunrise and sunset every day. Nature can truly cast a spell and so, how about pausing to take notice.

There are celebrated spots across the globe that serve as a perfect backdrop to heighten the beauty of the rising or setting sun. From snow clad peaks, to historic monuments, to beaches and urban structures, you can catch a glimpse of spectacular sunrise and sunset from various points with some cues from us today.

Flip the pages in our special edition today and make some plans to travel with your family in tow.

Rise Up!

VENICE, ITALY

The canals of Venice need no introduction. During dusk, in between the sun going down and the bright neon lights embracing night fall, Venice displays unmatched beauty. The gondola capital turns into an artist’s canvas. One of the best ways of seeing a sunset here is on the water, with a glass of champagne, drifting on the gondola along the canals of Venice or the Nokomis beaches. For those looking to heighten romance, this one’s just perfect. For those food connoisseurs, the spot at any outdoor seating overlooking the beach and the pier is another favourite.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA

Towering up to 16,100 ft, climbing the course of Kilimanjaro is not only a challenging but also life changing, and wisdom imparting experience, which assures a lifetime of incredible memories. Although, you don’t have to hike up the peak to enjoy a sunrise, head to the Shira 1 Camp on the Western Approach and Grand Traverse route, the sight is perched above the forest. The site allows you to take in the rolling sky and lets you catch a glimpse of snowy peak in the distance, crowned in a golden hue during sunrise. On the other hand the Shira 2 Camp, rewards with a spectacular sunset behind Shira Peak (one of three distinct volcanic cones) and uninterrupted views of Uhuru Peak, the highest summit.

STONEHENGE, ENGLAND

Stonehenge, England is a tourist magnet that attracts many. To get more out of your visit, head there during sunrise or sunset. On the day of the northern winter solstice (during mid December), the sun sets amidst three great stones – known as the Trilithon – consisting of two large vertical stones supporting a third, horizontal stone across the top. The spectacular sight captures a ray of sunlight like gleaming jewel between the gigantic stones. Apart from this fantastic sight, Stonehenge is also popular during sunrises.

SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

Angkor Wat’s incredible architecture has earned it a space on the world map. Watch the wonders a sunrise and sunset can do to heighten the grandeur of this monument. As the ball of fire peeps out of the horizon, head over to Angkor Wat’s west gate for sunrise to observe the silhouette of the temple paint a serene panorama. At sunset, head over to Phnom Bakheng to see the iconic temple washed in amber hues.

GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA, USA

The rays of the sun put up a wonderful show at sunset as they interact with this impressive natural wonder. While Grand Canyon is a large entity, there are many spots that promise a spectacular sunrise and sunset. Although, it’s the later that wins the heart. Watch the sun set from the south rim, to enjoy river views of the Grand Canyon, Colorado River, and Hermit Rapids. Light plays off the brightly coloured Canyon walls bringing out the warm hues of the structure as the sun drops below the rim.

MACHU PICCHU, PERU

During the wee hours of morning, the archeological site is often blanketed with clouds and mist. This little hide and seek game of the sun illuminates the archeological site and its surroundings with a soft light rather than the direct rays of the sun. Many sunrise tours are hosted at Machu Picchu starting from Aguas Calientes (the town below Machu Picchu). The Machu Picchu site is better viewed from Inti Punku (the Gate of the Sun), which brings the temple and sunrise together for a spectacular panorama.

THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD, AUSTRALIA

When it comes to landscapes, the sun and the sea make for a perfect combination. The Great Ocean Road rolls both these wonders one. Popular as one of most popular self drive routes, this one's perfect to calm the mind down. The panorama of the 12 Apostles is incomplete without the fiery lit, red horizon. The limestone stacks stand out against the warm hue of the sky further bringing out its beauty. Hike down the Gibsons Steps, which takes you down to the beach. The flight of 86 stairs serves as a platform, allowing a glimpse of the sun peering between the Apostles. Loch Ard Gorge, the spot that marks the Loch Ard shipwreck, is another viewing point that further adds glory to the sunset.

Compiled by Shireen Kanchwala

ETTR 7DEC7