Archive for the 'Brasil' Category

Pousada Picinguaba: Pousada Picinguaba, Brasil

First Impression

I believe the perfect honeymoon is not about the destination, rather it is about the precious time a couple spends together celebrating their new path in life.  Which is why my husband and I decided that we had to visit Pousada Picinguaba, because there we could truly escape the distractions in life, as the hotel had no TVs, no Internet, and no telephone reception, and focus completely on each other.

Location

Pousada Picinguaba is situated half-way between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo in a quiet, seaside village.  The hotel is tucked away on a hill surrounded by the ultimate in natural beauty — with a view so magnificent it takes your breath away.  There are only 10 rooms, ensuring seclusion and exceptional and attentive service.

The Room

While the decor in the honeymoon suite is simple, it has everything newlyweds could want and more.  The comfortable King size bed is draped in a romantic mosquito netting.  Every day cold, fresh water is brought to the room and placed on the large dining table in the middle of the room.  The orchids and candles that decorate the room add to its rustic charm.

The Bathroom

Adjacent to the bed is an amazing jacuzzi that is reason enough to visit Pousada Picinguaba.  There is also a separate en suite bathroom that contains a shower.

The Extras

Only the honeymoon suite has a spacious balcony with an inviting hammock that overlooks the sea.  Many nights were spent swinging in the hammock watching the sun set over this tropical hideaway.  Breakfasts are included in the room price and like all typical Brasilian breakfasts are large and delicious.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

This charming pousada wins my heart over with its magnificent pool that is surrounded by the very best of what Brasil has to offer.

Pousada Picinguaba’s philosophy, which they achieve effortlessly, is luxury means tranquility, nature, and authenticity.

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Before we began our honeymoon, we accepted the fact that there would be a lot of traveling during our time in Brasil.  We were visiting 4 cities, 3 of which were off the beaten track.  Our next stop would be Picinguaba.  We had to drive 1.5 hours from Trancoso to Puerto Seguro, then fly to Sao Paulo, and finally drive 3 hours to Picinguaba.  We are both obsessed with the movie Rio (if you have not seen it yet stop reading this post and rent it), thus when we saw we would be flying in a plane that was designed to look like one of the characters from it, we knew it had to be a sign that we were on the right path!

And the signs kept continuing, as upon arrival to Pousada Picinguaba, we were greeted in the lobby by this couple that beard a slight resemblance to us newlyweds.

Just like in Trancoso, we had arrived late into the evening, which meant we had no idea what our surroundings looked like and had to eagerly wait until morning to find out.  The staff generously left us a bottle of champagne and a thoughtful note by the gorgeous jacuzzi that was situated in the middle of the honeymoon suite.

We were tempted to skip dinner and take a bath instead, however a table had been arranged for us on the deck of the swimming pool with the gentle sound of the sea in the background.  Several years ago, Picinguaba acquired a nearby farm, which is where all of their organic produce comes from.  Only hotel guests are allowed to dine at their renowned restaurant.  The menu changes daily and is designed for guests to share the wonders of the ocean, the mountains, and the tropical forests that surround Picinguaba.

After our romantic dinner, we returned to our room to discover that during turndown service candles had been lit and a bath had been drawn for us.  It is as if the hotel had read our minds.

On this night we would relax, but in the morning we would explore.

To see the accompanying post click here.

On the fourth day of our honeymoon and our last full day in Trancoso, we decided to cut our beach time short in order to get up close and personal with the surrounding vibrant tropical flora.  Which of the following photos is your favorite?  I am partial to the pink orchids.

In the evening, we finally ventured out from Villas de Trancoso and into the colonial heart of the village of Trancoso.  It is set on a bluff overlooking the ocean and clustered around the main square, which is known as the Quadrado.  The Quadrado is lined with colorful, rustic cottages that are presided over by the town’s church.

We strolled hand in hand along the cobblestone streets until we came upon another pousada’s restaurant with a chic decor that beckoned us inside.  Unfortunately, the name escapes me now, which is a shame, as our meal was quite memorable.

After dinner we wandered around looking for the perfect bar for post-dinner caipirinhas.  In the distance, we heard some samba music and followed the beats until we found where the band was playing.  Lucas and I scored a table in front and I am not sure what was more intoxicating the music or the drinks?

It was one of those nights that I wish could have lasted forever and quite possibly was the best night of the honeymoon.

To see the accompanying post click here.

On the third day of our honeymoon, we awoke already knowing what the day had in store for us.  When we had arrived to the beach the previous day, we had turned left, now it was time to explore the unknown of the right.  Have I mentioned how undeniably gorgeous the Bahia coast is?

There were photographic opportunities no matter where we looked!

My favorite discovery of the day was a pink abondoned boat that was floating in a tucked away marsh.  Why do you think someone would leave behind something so special?  If she were mine I would give her a fresh coat of paint and name her “Borboleta,” which means butterfly in Portuguese and we would sail around Brasil together.

As Lucas and I continued to go in the direction that the Brasilian wind was blowing us, we had a surreal moment; we were finally together — and now forever — after 6 years of being over 5,000 miles apart.  My wedding vows were to never take our precious time together for granted and that is exactly what we were both doing; we were treasuring every single second of our honeymoon.  I had no doubt that we were creating unforgettable memories that we would hold close to our hearts for years to come.

Along the way we stopped to watch some men practicing capoeira.  It is a mesmerizing sport mixed with music, dancing, and fighting.

We also spotted a couple basking in the glorious sun together.

And the first sand dollar that was fully intact.

Oh, and how could I forget the world’s most cutest dog!  My husband had to restrain me from sticking him in our luggage.

Once we finished our walk, I returned to Villas de Trancoso for a late-afternoon cocktail, while Lucas joined some locals for a friendly game of beach soccer.

We rejoined, however, to watch the glorious sunset.

Brasil, my love, you never cease to amaze me with your exquisite beauty.

 To see the accompanying post click here.

We awoke with an abundance of excitement, as we could not wait to see what Villas de Trancoso looked like in the light of day.

However, before we could explore, our stomachs needed some nourishment.  The breakfast offered at the pousada was without a doubt the best breakfast I have ever had in all of my travels.

Lucas and I were the only guests in the entire place, yet they still fed us as though it were high season.  We heard the gossip that Bill and Melinda Gates had just left several days before our arrival.  I am firm believer in traveling to places during the low season (weather permitting).  Not only is it less expensive, but you will most likely have the luxury of solitude.

After breakfast it was time to finally see the infamous Bahia beach, which was the reason why we were there.  But first we had to cross over a bridge that made us feel as though we were walking into a secret world.

And when we saw the view and that there was not a soul on the endless beach, it felt even more like a secret world!  We could go left or we could go right.  The left won and we set off on a photographic treasure hunt.

After several miles, we decided to return to our pousada for lunch and have a snuggle in one of the hammock’s.

We were then surprised by bottle of Veuve Clicquot from some of our friends as a wedding present.  Champagne on the beach with my sexy husband in Brasil is my idea of heaven.

Just as we were finishing our bubbly, our pizza arrived.  I have talked about this pizza before in other posts and I will probably continue to talk about it in future posts.  We were never privy to the ingredients, thus I cannot necessarily explain why it was so life-changingly good, but we ordered it for lunch for the following 4 days.

The next couple of hours were spent sunbathing and before we knew it it was time for yet another meal.  On this night we would be dining underneath the stars next to the pool which was illuminated by both moonlight and candles.

Lucas ordered a cheeseburger and french fries, while I ordered a seafood risotto.  Again, we were dazzled by the deliciousness.

Unfortunately, we did not have room for dessert, but our day was definitely sweet enough already without it!

 To see the accompanying post click here.

Villas De Trancoso: Trancoso, Brasil

First Impression

We did not know much about Trancoso before visiting, other than that its beaches were supposedly gorgeous, which was enough to make my ocean-loving husband and I want to begin our honeymoon there.  Of course the idea of having a villa all to ourselves made it that much more appealing after spending the previous two weeks constantly surrounded by family and friends for our wedding.  Villas de Trancoso truly was like walking into another world — a world more beautiful than words and pictures could ever possibly capture.

Location

Villas de Trancoso is located several miles away from the historical village of Trancoso, built along the beaches of Bahia.  This luxury boutique hotel and pousada is the perfect tropical escape whether you are on your honeymoon, traveling solo, or on a family holiday.  To get there one must first travel to Puerto Seguro and from there it is an hour’s car ride to Trancoso.

The Room

Our 1-bedroom villa was situated near everything essential on the property’s grounds, however it was surrounded by foliage that provided us with a feeling of exclusivity and privacy.  The villa was incredibly spacious and no detail was spared.

The King sized bed was draped with mosquito netting creating a romantic ambiance, along with the exquisitely appointed lighting, traditional Brasilian decor, and the hand-carved wooden detailing found throughout.

The hammock on the terrace was my husband’s favorite part about the villa.

The Bathroom

The en-suite bathroom was equally as charming as the bedroom.  It too was also spacious and contained a “rainforest shower” that  felt like heaven after a long day at the beach.

The Extras

I have never encountered a better hotel restaurant than the one at Villas de Trancoso.  In fact, in the 5 days we had at the property, we ate all 3 meals there every single day, minus one dinner when we finally ventured into town.  My suggestion is try each dish on the menu.  It is worth traveling all the way to Trancoso just to experience the food at this gem.

Despite the fact that we were the only guests on the property (it was low season), each morning we were greeted with this delicious feast that is included with every stay.

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Villas de Trancoso exemplifies the very best of what Brasil has to offer all in one place.  Between the lush and verdant landscaped gardens that makes one feel as though they are deep within the Amazon Rainforest to the breathtakingly beautiful beaches that Brasil is so well known for, this tropical Paradise is a true oasis.  There is also a white marbled pool where one can relax with cocktails in a sunbed or in the sunken pool bar.

A short stroll will take one directly to the beach where more comfortable sunbeds and another bar awaits.

With a view like this, how could one not fall head over heels in love?

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Finally, almost a year later, I am blogging about my Brasilian honeymoon.  My intention was to immediately share the intimate details of the most romantic trip of my life to date, however soon after I returned there was a surprise trip to Buenos Aires, a press trip to the Dominican Republic, my second wedding, a few Southern getaways with my husband, another press trip to France and Italy, and my first New Year’s Eve with my husband in Chicago.  In a way, I am delighted that I have the had the extended time to truly reflect on our two weeks together throughout our favorite country in the world, as it is incredibly important to me that I am succinct in expressing how deeply this place touches both of our souls.  Please note that at the end of every post is an “accompanying link.”  These links are to the mini-posts that I blogged in real time on the honeymoon.

I suppose I should have known that since I am travel writer and photographer that the number one question people would ask me as soon as I confided that I was engaged to be married would be, “Where are you going for your honeymoon?”  In all honesty, I was so focused on the wedding, that I had put zero thought into the honeymoon destination.  However, I quickly began to feel pressure that I had to chose the most unique and exotic place on earth.  My then-fiance Lucas and I talked about where we should go for months and nothing felt quite right.  In the end, we decided to  listen to what our hearts were telling us: return to Brasil.  It is the country where we got engaged and where we hope to live one day — the most perfect place for our honeymoon.  We decided that on this special trip though we would visit all new cities: Trancoso, Picinguaba, and Fernando de Noronha (with some in transit stops to Rio de Janeiro).

Our first day of the honeymoon was spent either in an airport or on an airplane.  We were unable to get a direct flight from Buenos Aires, which is where we had our wedding, to Puerto Seguro, the gateway for Trancoso.  Thus, it took us 3 flights and an hour’s car ride to reach our final destination.  We were unfazed though, as we were floating on a cloud of newlywed bliss.  It also helped that everywhere we looked were Britto works of art (one my favorite artist’s and designer of this jesetter’s luggage).

And, of course, the aerial views were not bad either.

We would be staying at the luxurious Villas de Trancoso in the village of Trancoso for 5 nights.  Because it was pitch black by the time we arrived, we would have to explore the grounds in the morning.

How lovely is it to be greeted with such a welcoming sign, flowers, and chocolate after 24 hours of traveling?

In my wildest fantasies I could not have dreamed of a more perfect bed for our honeymoon.

While we would have been more than happy to crawl into it and not emerge until daylight, we were starving and our first night in Brasil needed to be celebrated with some caipirinhas.

We both ordered the local catch of the day with buttered mash potatoes, which perfectly complimented our drinks.

For dessert we had a petit gateau with vanilla ice cream that was so delicious we almost did not want to share it with each other.

After dinner, we decided to take a leisurely stroll underneath the moonlight.  We both could not believe the sensational meal we had just consumed and were eager to try more things on the menu.

As we made our way back to the villa, we could hear Trancoso’s tropical soundtrack of the gently swaying palm trees in the night breeze with the ocean waves crashing in the distance playing.  It was nature’s version of samba and it was confirmation that we had indeed picked the right place for our honeymoon.

To see the accompanying post click here.

I thoroughly enjoyed writing my ABC’s of Travel, as it allowed me to nostalgically reflect on some beautiful past adventures.  Thus, I could not wait for the next meme to circulate in the travel world and was delighted when 7 Super Shots From My Travels was created, especially since it revolved around photography — a passion of mine that is cultivated more deeply with each passing day.

1. A photo that… takes my breath away:

I had goosebumps once I looked into my viewfinder and saw this picture that I had taken in Florence, Italy.  I was leaving San Miniato al Monte and I was overwhelmed with a feeling that I needed to make a quick visit to the adjoining graveyard for a couple of more photos.  I knew that my fellow travelers would be impatiently waiting for me in the bus, but I could not ignore my intuition and I am so thankful that I did not.

2. A photo that… makes me laugh or smile:

Unfortunately, I did not own a decent camera when I went on a journey of a lifetime to Kruger Park in South Africa  Although it is irrelevant, because no matter how good this picture could have been, it will always put the biggest smile on my face.  It was my first time encountering wild elephants (we all know how crazy obsessed I am with the animal) and when I saw this family crossing in front of the jeep that I was in during my safari my heart almost burst from happiness.

3. A photo that… makes me dream:

A dream sunset in a dream location, how could this photo not cause me to dream?  For several years now I have desired to learn how to sail and to move to Brasil.  When I look at this photo of a sailboat, which to me symbolizes the ultimate in freedom, exploration, and adventure, docked in Buzios Bay, it inspires me to dream big and to finally cross these dreams off of my Bucket List.

4. A photo that… makes me think:

When I stepped foot in Tibet for the first time, a place that had consumed my thoughts for over a decade, I truly felt as though I had completed a spiritual pilgrimage, as I have been drawn to Buddhism for as long as I can remember and even majored in Comparative Religious Studies with a focus on women in Buddhism in College.  Seeing these monks adoringly gaze at the Potala Palace, home to the Dalai Lamas over the years, makes me think about grandiose questions such what is the true meaning of life, does karma really exist, and what happens after we die.

5. A photo that… makes my mouth water:

You know that a dish has changed you if you find yourself thinking about it every single day and that is exactly what I have been doing since my honeymoon in Trancoso, Brasil almost a year ago.  My husband and I literally ordered this pizza every single day and on the last day we each ordered one for ourselves.  The chef would not tell us how she prepared it other than it had a “secret sauce.”

6. A photo that… tells a story:

I ilegally sneaked into Cuba for my 25th Birthday and it is one of my greatest moments to date.  Life in La Habana is incredibly difficult for most due to the US embargo.  However despite this, Cubans are amongst the happiest people in the world.  This woman in the photo most likely does not have much, other than her gorgeous smile (and a cohiba) and yet she is happy.  Her picture tells the story of Cuban pride and how it is so infectious that everyone on the island is constantly celebrating the fact that no matter what their economic status is they are and will always be Cuban.

7. A photo that… I am most proud of (aka My National Geographic shot):

I decided that for my last solo trip as a single woman I would travel somewhere incredibly exotic.  When I discovered that Easter Island, Chile was the most remote island in the world, I knew it was the perfect location for my solo trip.  When I finally got up close and personal with the sacred Moai, I decided that I needed to photograph them in a way that they had never been photographed before, which I believe I accomplished with this shot.

If you have followed My Beautiful Adventures for some time now, I would love to know, did I leave out a certain picture of mine that you feel deserves to be included in this post?

As you read this, I am in the midst of exploring Chicago for the first time with my husband.  We have graciously been invited by the Hyatt Regency Chicago to celebrate New Year’s Eve at their glamorous Ballroom Blitz.  This is an incredibly special New Year’s Eve for me, because not only is it my first as a married woman, it is also the first I have ever spent with my husband in the 6.5 years that we have known each other.  I cannot wait for my (guaranteed) midnight kiss!

I hope you enjoy reading my ABC’s of Travel as much as I enjoyed writing them.  Answering the questions made me reflect on past trips that I had not thought about in years, even though some of these trips were so life-changing that I am the woman I am today because of them.  I wish everyone the most extraordinary 2012 — may it be filled with one beautiful adventure after another.

Age you went on your first international trip: The exact age I am not completely sure, but I do know that it was to Nassau, Bahamas and I was around the age of 10.  Surprisingly, I did not catch the travel bug until later on in life.

Best foreign beer you have had and where: I dislike beer immensely, but if I had to choose the best I have ever tasted it would be Tsingtao, which is found throughout China.

Cuisine (favorite): Whenever I consume Spanish food I feel like it was the best meal of my life.

Destinations – favorite, least favorite and why: My favorite destination is Brasil.  It is where I took my first solo trip in a country where I did not speak the language, it is where I got engaged, it is where I honeymooned, and it is where I hope to one day live.  I have yet to visit a place that I would refuse to visit again, having said that I would be fine not revisiting or never visiting about 15 American states (that shall remain nameless).

Buzios, Brasil

Event you experienced abroad that made you say wow: Celebrating New Year’s Eve on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.  I am convinced there is no place better in the entire world to ring in the new year.  Think 3 million people all dressed in white with 10 minutes of non-stop fireworks.

Favorite mode of transportation: First class, whether it is by plane, train, or boat, although train travel is my favorite of the three.  I like to arrive to my final destination relaxed and refreshed, so that I can start exploring immediately.

Greatest feeling while traveling: When I am on an adventure I feel like anything can happen.  I have truly become addicted to this feeling.

Hottest place you have traveled to: Driving throughout the Outback of Australia during the height of Summer.

Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the Outback of Australia

Incredible service you have experienced and where: Every time I use Andrea Novick with Elite Travel International as my Travel Adviser I am absolutely blown away by her expertise, service, and insight.  She knows everything there is to know about travel.  She also happens to be my inspiration — she has been to Antarctica twice!

Journey that took the longest: NYC to Durban, South Africa.  It took over 30 hours of non-stop flying and of course it was worth it, but next time I have to fly this far I am breaking the trip up in stages.

Keepsake from your travels: I collect 2 things while traveling: 1) anything with elephants on it and 2) gold charms for my good luck necklace.

Let-down site – why and where: Despite my undying love for Brasil, I was deeply disappointed with Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro.  While I think it is beautiful, I also do not think it should be considered one of the seven Wonders of the World.

Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Moment when you fell in love with travel: My first significant trip overseas was to China when I was 20.  I literally can remember the moment I walked off the plane and was consumed with the insatiable desire to see the rest of the world.

Nicest hotel you’ve stayed in: I have had the great fortune to stay in a lot of luxurious hotels, however the one that I go to in my mind when I am stressed is Pousada Maravilha in Fernando de Noronha, Brasil.  My husband and I stayed there on our honeymoon for 3 unforgettable days.

World's Best Infinity Pool in Fernando de Noronha, Brasil

Obsession – what are you obsessed with taking pictures of while traveling: Sunsets, elephants, flowers, anything that is pink, oceans, unique perspectives of shots that have been taken a billion times over. . .

Passport stamps, how many and from where: I lost count.  I have been to around 50 countries and many I have repeated over and over again.  I have had 2 passports and each have had pages added.

Quirkiest attraction you have visited and where: Pass?

Recommended site, event, or experience: It was the most challenging trips of my life to date, however I highly recommend journeying to Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.  I remember thinking to myself the entire time I was there, “I wish everyone could see this.”  The magical landscape changes before your eyes from salt flats to mountains to desserts to aquamarine and red lakes with thousands of pink flamingos.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Splurge, something you have no problem forking over money for while traveling: I try to upgrade whenever possible (if it is for the right price).  I also like to splurge on dining experiences and excursions.

Touristy thing you have done: A horse and carriage ride through Central Park in NYC.  I do this every single time I visit and I did it several times while I lived there.  The tradition started when I was a little girl when my Dad would take me to the Big Apple every Christmas.  We would get hot chocolate and snuggle up together in the carriage and he would tell me stories about growing up in NYC.

Unforgettable travel memory: Taking a solo trip to the most remote island in the world: Easter Island, Chile.  The entire time I was there I kept pinching myself to make sure that I was not dreaming.

The Men of Rapa Nui

Wine, best glass while traveling and where: The bottle of Malbec (name forgotten) my family and my husband’s family shared the first time they met in Buenos Aires, Argentina.  Wine is like water to me when I am in Argentina.

eXcellent view and from where: I have seen some extraordinary views all over the world, but without a doubt the best view was my husband’s smiling face as I walked down the aisle at our wedding at Faena Hotel + Universe.

Best Moment of 2011

Years spent traveling: Traveling became my #1 priority around a decade ago.

Zealous sports fans and where: My first soccer match was Boca Juniors vs River Plate, the 2 biggest rival teams in Argentina.  The crowd became so out of hand that all of the women and children were evacuated an hour before the men and then the fans from one team were let out before the fans from the other team.  Needles to say, I became a devoted soccer fan after that!  My husband and I plan to attend the World Cup in Brasil in 2016.

From silver-screen stars like Fred Astaire and Brigitte Bardot to rock-stars like Mick Jagger and Madonna, holidays in Rio have always been de rigeur for the international jetset.  The grand art deco hotels of Copacabana have been home to more than their fair share of royalty, financiers, and plain old international playboys over the years.  Today, Rio is recapturing some of that glamor and once again becoming a prime international destination and we look at how you can live it up on your own.

Take a yacht tour of Guanabara Bay

You might not have your own ocean-going luxury yacht, at least not yet, but that need not stop you from enjoying the Rio skyline as if you did!  Holidays in Rio allow you lots of options for taking boat trips out into Guanabara Bay, including aboard some lovely sailing schooners, so you can relax and enjoy drinks from the bar while you feel that warm tropical breeze and the wind in the sails.  You can even stop off at some of the many islands in the bay to enjoy some snorkeling and beach time away from the hoi polloi on Copacabana beach.

Guanabara, Brasil

Make like Bardot in Buzios

To escape from the paparazzi back in France in the 1960′s, a young Brigitte Bardot took a holiday in Rio and up to the Buzios peninsula just north of the city, where she could enjoy some anonymity whilst sunning herself on the dozen or so world-class beaches that surround the small town of Armaçao de Buzios.  Her presence helped turn this small fishing village into one of the most sought after spots on the Brazilian coast, but even today it has retained its charm with small owner-run pousadas providing stylish boutique accommodation to mere mortals like you and me.

The girl from Ipanema

For many years the famous neighbourhood of Copacabana was the trendy spot for holidays in Rio, but these days the more stylish hotels, bars, and restaurants are to be found further west in Ipanema.  More laid back than Copacabana, for many Ipanema sums up what is great about Rio: on the same day you can check out the famous Hippie Market, enjoy lunch at one the city’s best restaurants, go jewellery shopping on Ipanema’s famous Diamond Row, and then finish up watching the sun set at the beach with just a can of beer or a caipirinha from a street vendor.

Take tea at the Palace

No, not that palace, although the Queen has been there!  The Copacabana Palace is the grand dame of Rio hotels, and the white art deco façade is famous throughout Brazil.  Since it first opened its doors in 1923, it has been home to royalty, film stars, and the crème de la crème of international society enjoying their holidays in Brazil.  Even if you cannot afford to stay here yourself, it is worth dropping in for afternoon tea on the terrace so that you can enjoy some of the old-world luxury which has kept the Palace at the top of the Brazil holiday tree throughout the decades.

Supper at Satyricon

If you are looking for something a little more substantial than afternoon tea, then we cannot recommend anywhere more highly than Satyricon in Ipanema.  This classic Italian seafood restaurant is where Madonna eats when she is in town, and it is also one of Ronaldo’s favorites (and that is a guy who likes to eat!).  It is certainly not the cheapest place in town, but for quality it cannot be beat, thus perhaps it is a good place to do a little star-watching on your last night in Rio so you can finish on a high note.

Dan Clarke works for Real Brazil Holidays and cannot wait to get back to Brazil and sink a few caipirinhas at the Azul Marinho while he watches the sun sinking into the ocean.