© Nicolo Sertorio

When you see the Southern Cross
For the first time
You understand now
Why you came this way…

Crosby, Stills & Nash (song)

I saw the Southern Cross for the first time floating on my back in the pool at the Copacabana Palace Hotel in Rio. The constellation’s five stars directly overhead were completely visible in the jet black sky. I stared at the heavens transfixed, bobbing in the water with the soothing sounds of the surf breaking onto the beach just across the Avenida Atlântica, and knew that I would remember that moment forever.

Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio

Model – Lauren Currie