Bangui Windmills: The Magic of Sunsets

For me, magic is the ephemeral moments of sunsets. Magic is the split second of when the sky transforms from touches of yellow and orange to a mysterious shade of navy, dotted with stars centered on the shining moon. I supposed it wasn’t called “magic hour” if it wasn’t truly captivating and enchanting, right?

During our trip to Ilocos, our group decided to spend the sundown at the Bangui Windmills located just a few minutes away from Pagudpud. These massive windmills gathered a lot of attention, not only because it was an effort to create sustainable and clean energy, but also because it was truly a pretty sight to behold.

The windmills are located by the beach, harboring energy from the strong winds of the sea. The shore is very rocky and visitors are not allowed to swim or take a dip in the water because of the powerful currents. The area is engulfed in salty breeze, giving you a taste of the sea in every breath.

Ever since it became open to the public, the Bangui Windmills quickly became a tourists’ favorite. During our visit, many groups also chose this stop to watch as the sun prepares itself to slumber. Mark and I took tons of photos and walked hand in hand by the beach (very cliche, I know, but there’s something about romantic things that makes you feel like it’s okay to be cheesy. LOL). It was a great way to end such a hectic day of touring, and finding a way to just slow down and breathe for a bit was something that we’re certainly grateful for.

Much like everything else in life, sunsets are fleeting, but its breathtaking beauty will definitely create an etch to your existence. It was truly the best way to describe what I experienced in Bangui — a gorgeous moment filled with magic and colors. It was short-lived, but it was enough for me to feel things, to make me realize how good it was to be present and alive.

I guess the magic of sunset lies in the moments, just like how we experience it in our lives. The laughters, the surprises, the hugs and the kisses — these are the things that make our lives enchanting and truly magical. My experience in Bangui is somehow a reflection of the things that I’ve learned on how we ought to make time to breathe and relax despite all things being hectic and tiresome.

Observe. Listen. Breathe. Watch sunsets and let yourself experience magic every day.

The windmills against the blazing sun

More of my Ilocos Trip

WheninManila Article

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Mark and I’s Ilocos Video