All frugal travelers know that the best things in life are free. Tourists watching their budget take pleasure in the simple things and take time to smell the roses and appreciate the beauty of the world around them. With that in mind, we thought we’d clue prospective jetsetters in on the best sunsets around the planet. After all, it costs nothing to pause and admire these natural light shows!
If you can afford the airfare, you won’t regret taking in the sunset at Uluru. This mammoth rock in Australia’s Red Center is impressive by day, but spectacular when the sun goes down. Between 6 and 8 pm, depending on the time of year, you’ll see colors racing across the massive monolith. Special viewing platforms built into the surrounding sand dunes ensure visitors get the best look.
You’ll see plenty of wildlife with your sunset at Kenya’s Masai Mara. The local leopards, buffalo, elephants, and rhinos become more active as night falls, so sunset safaris are very popular. As Kenya is close to the equator the sun sets at around 6:30 pm each night, no matter what the season.
Snuggling up to someone special as you both watch the sun set is always romantic, so why not do it in one of the most romantic cities in the world? You’re bound to feel your heart racing as you stand on Accademia Bridge in Venice and watch the vivid colors illuminate the sky and the Grand Canal below. Just take heed of the time, because sunsets vary wildly depending on the season. During winter the sun sets at around 4:30 pm, but in summer it’s as late as 9:30 pm. You wouldn’t want to miss it!
But you needn’t travel a world away to enjoy a special sunset. At Mallory Square in Florida’s Key West you get an amazing view, and a party. Grab a cocktail and enjoy the sight of the fiery globe dipping into the Gulf of Mexico. The square comes alive every evening between 5:30 and 8:20 pm, but arriving an hour early will help you get a prime viewing position.
Uluru at sunset
And don’t underestimate the sunsets at Maui’s Mount Haleakala. The sunrises get all the publicity, but at sunset the tourists have dispersed, leaving you to enjoy the view in peace. The clouds move from blues and greens through to fiery oranges and reds. No wonder the locals think this spot is just as pretty in the evenings!
Finally, don’t forget about the sunset in your own backyard. If you can’t afford a getaway right now, taking the time to enjoy the view outside your own window is a great way to recharge and refresh.
