March 18, 2026

DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND was a quick 25 minute ride inland from the Port of Chalmers. We were going to take the bus, when fellow Resident Theresa, offered us a ride, as she had to return her rental car. This allowed us to make a stop along the way at Baldwin Street.

Baldwin Street, Dunedin, NZ claims to be the Steepest Street in the World, per Guinness Book of Records. But the documentation is a bit fuzzy. Regardless, it is an impressive incline. I ended up chatting to one of the most well known residents of Baldwin Street,  Dave Kernahan, pictured below. He told me he has used the hill as his personal training secret since 2000 - he runs up and down the street 30 times almost every day - a total of more than 10 Kilometers. He is now in his 70's and in great shape. 

Next, Theresa dropped us at the Historic Dunedin Railway Station. It was built in from 1904 to 1907, one of NZ's most photographed buildings famous for it's dramatic black and white stone ( sourced locally) fascade and intricate mosaic tile floors inside. The NZ architect was George Troup.

Next we wandered the downtown, leisurely shopping and sight seeing. Sherrie, Holly and I were enjoying the sunshine and camaraderie as we strolled a variety of arts and goods for a couple of hours. We ended at Woolworth's grocery store where we each stocked up, before calling for an uber to take us back to the Ship.

By Pat Patrick July 26, 2026
We just relaxed on the Island of Koh Chang, Thailand. It's one of the largest Thai Islands in the Gulf of Thailand and it has a dense, steep jungle & National Park covering the interior of the Island, which extends off shore, to coral reefs. The coast line is dotted with beaches and villages. This was a tender port, so we decided to stay on the Island for 3 nights, to be able to experience the nightlife. Turns out, it is low season, so nightlife was pretty sleepy. However, we did find a new favorite night time activity! Any Guesses?!?
By Pat Patrick July 25, 2026
Love Sea Days ! I got a much needed haircut and color. Think I'll be going shorter, but giving this a whirl! Can you see the back in the mirror? The bangs and side volume, is what drives me nuts in the heat and humidity!
By Pat Patrick July 21, 2026
Wat Bang Kung Temple was a quick stop along the way to the Train Markets . What makes this unique is the Temple is completely enclosed by roots of four giant trees (a banyan, bodhi and others). From the outside, it looks like nature has swallowed the building. Inside the chapel is a golden Buddha image, that locals still visit to pray. It was quite active during our short visit there. The Temple dates back over 250 years and survived the Burmese invasion.