June 24, 2024

Game #3 Germany vs Switzerland

Germany had a real challenge in Game #3. They never seemed to get control of the ball. We watched from home as game didn't start until 9 pm on Sunday night. Every time we looked at screen it seemed that red uniforms of the Swiss dominated. It was in final minutes of game when the beloved Niclas Fullkrug scored the goal to cancel out Ndoye of Switzerland's goal and keep the host nation on top in tournament. The game ended in a tie but secured Germany a spot in the next round. Game #4 for Germany will be Saturday the 29th. I pray I am gone from Germany and on ship by then! But will keep cheering Germany on!


Interesting fact on Fullkrug, his nickname is Lucke ( german for gap) because of his front teeth. He once ended up hospitalized with the tooth of his teammate wedged in his forehead!

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.