September 19, 2025

LONGSHAN TEMPLE, one of the most popular in town and so pretty!

This Temple was very active with lots of locals in doing prays for their past relations, remember it's the Ghost Festival. So lots of food donations are brought to the temple, blessed by the incense burning in the big metal pot shown here and then left for those in need. The other thing is you hear coins and wood blocks being dropped all around the areas where people are praying -  I asked a local what the symbolism or significance of this was and they told me your asking the spirit for direction. Not really sure I get it all but was fascinating to watch. Beautiful place especially at night and the tables and chairs and tents seem to be temporary meeting spots during this festival time to share a meal.

By Patricia Patrick November 1, 2025
A lot of people went to dinner in costume, but the full party started after at 8:30 pm with fun and games first, then the dance floor opened outside. I hand sewed our Pebbles & BamBam costumes.
By Patricia Patrick November 1, 2025
We love a good party! Halloween did not disappoint! The festivities started with a Spooky Lunch Buffet and a gorgeous sunset!
By Patricia Patrick November 1, 2025
SORONG (pronounced so wrong), our Destination Manager add "so right" ! Our last port in Indonesia for a while. On the way there, we celebrated the birthday of two our friends MaryAnn and Doris, with a sailor themed dinner in Thistle.