August 6, 2024

Remember these two from my post on Mayo Ireland?

Unbeknownst to them, I had plotted with their Mom to meet up with them in Belfast this past weekend and had hoped to get them on the Ship to explore and check things out. Oisin and Fionn are big fans of the Titanic and this was one of their last free weekends before school starts again. They still made the trip up from Mayo and had great fun touring the Titanic and Children's Science Museums, but sadly I didn't get to meet them! I tried to get them the same limited access I had to the ship, but found out Saturday afternoon, that would not be permitted and therefore moved my flight. However, I did fill their Mom in on where the Odyssey is berthed, and she got them within dancing distance despite torrential rains!

Oisin was concerned we might not have enough lifeboats, seems that visit to the Titanic Museum was money well spent! Hope to see this happy duo again real soon!

TIOMAN ISLAND, MALAYSIA

By Pat Patrick • July 6, 2026
Fun day in the waters of Tioman Island, Malaysia snorkeling with friends. Life is good! It was nothing fancy, a boat & captain, who spoke minimal English and barely interacted with us, for roughly 7 hours. We started the outing spotting a group of dolphins and was quickly at anchor drop 1 of 6. The distances between the 6 snorkel spots was minimal, which gave us lots of time in the water (at least 45 minutes, at each spot) with an added stop for a lunch break at local restaurants. Even the restaurants were fast and efficient, definitely used to catering to the boat crowd.

HAPPY 4th of JULY from SE ASIA SEA!

By Pat Patrick • July 4, 2026
Wishing everyone a Happy 4th of July! Here on the Odyssey we celebrated in the SE Asia Sea on our way to Tioman Island, Malaysia . We have such a talented and dedicated group of residents here, they put together a fun hour of things to celebrate and embrace a lot of what we collectively love about the USA. Even our residents from other countries - Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Germany , etc. joined in the fun! ( I lent my flag below for decorations)

BINTAN, INDONESIA - BUDDHIST TEMPLE

By Pat Patrick • July 2, 2026
Vihara Avalokiteshvara Graha or Guan Yin Temple is near 500 Lohan, so we also toured the grounds of this large Temple complex. It's dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy and is one the tallest brass statues of her in SE Asia. She is just over 55' tall, coated in 22 carat gold and is surrounded by scenic dragon fruit plantations. The tile work is intricate and textured with great details. The whole place is very tranquil and calming for meditation and prayer.