1001 Places/Experiences to See or Savour After Remission #165
- Christ the Redeemer in daylight, Rio de Janeiro
(We just had to take the famous tram up the Corcovado hill to see Christ the Redeemer again, this time, in the light of day. What a new view indeed, with the bright midday sunshine bathing the statue, all 38m tall. It took almost 10 years to complete it in 1931. With the Sugar Loaf Mountain as the backdrop, this is a million dollar view. And the locals know that too, with a string of Shakira-looking Brazilian beauties making a parade in front of this 7-Wonder of the World, some to build up their own runway portfolio, we suspected. Did you notice that little heart on the chest of the statue, which we didn't notice at night?)
(The sunset scene along Kuta beach is supposed to be inspiring. So we made it a point to check it out, and sure enough, the view is picture-perfect all along this western side of the island. But sections of the beach is covered in black sand - apparently from volcano eruptions from years gone by. Still, a Balinese massage by the beach is an inexpensive treat) 
(The iconic Tanah Lot Temple in Bali represents all that this magical island gives to a visitor - beauty, tranquility and raw power in equal measure - the serene temple perched atop an isle that is awashed by the constant white waves. The whole bay is a treat for the eye, including the local Balinese princess taking her rightful spot against this icon as her backdrop) 
(Back in Bali after my first visit many years back, and this mythical Island of the Gods still brings out the serenity in me. Is it the countless temples here, like this one at Taman Ayun? Its distinctive architecture is enough to make you feel a little at ease. Things do move slower here, I think. The book , Eat Pray Love, does reflect what's here) 
