I think your opinion is pretty valid on using the flagpole as a lead in line! Not even had a proper look at any of my shots from the trip yet (still sorting laundry and begging the cat's forgiveness!!!) but hoping that some of mine show even 1/2 the colours you've captured there - a quick look shows a very vivid green slash or slashes all over the image, hopefully a little processing will drag up some pinks and purples!
Thanks for sharing.