April 5, 2025

MANAUS OPERA HOUSE, BRAZIL

When we got back to the Port of Manus from our Amazon Boat excursion, we had arranged for our driver to take us the the Manaus Opera House for a tour of there most famous building, before we headed to the airport. They were preparing for a show opening the next night, and the main stage area was temporally darkened, for them to work out all the spot locations. So my pictures are limited. However, the ballroom on the second floor was spectacular. We did a fairly quick tour and then went on to the airport and grabbed some dinner, trying to make it festive for Sarah's birthday. Our flight to Belem, was delayed an hour. I advised the Hotel we would all need a late checkin after 2:30 a.m.  By the time we all got settled in, our heads hit the pillows at 3 a.m. Thank goodness we could sleep in the next day as the ship was not due into Port until 4 p.m.

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.