September 18, 2025

The Magnet Train, my friends & super packer!

My last comment on China is I traveled with a great group of quirky friends! We had a ton of laughs!


Above is our last leg on the Maglev or Magnet train heading to the airport at 187 mph, they actually had to slow down because people were getting nose bleeds, same with super fast elevators in high rises.


While traveling on such train, I found out that MaryAnn has bought so many Anime toys for her grandkids back in Canada, that her luggage was too full and she was wearing home her 10 tops and had her pajamas stuffed in her waist! I had her cosmetic bag in my luggage and another friend took her adaptors and electronics! Gotta love the dedication to family!


Also note, I also took a pair of shoes for Bosco.in my luggage.  I have become a super packer these days,  with room to spare for others!

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.