May 3, 2026

PADAR ISLAND, one of the other 3 major islands in Komodo National Park is stunning and unihabited with a walking trail of over 800 steps to the summit, for these amazing views.

I have to admit, I didn't have the energy for the climb! These photo are again courtesy of @BasiaK.blog .  The heat of the day took a big toll on me and I actually opted, with 3 others of our group, to go back to the Odyssey for the night and did not complete our live a board stay. The Odyssey was at anchor right near us,  so after enjoying a swim at the Pink Sand Beach, sadly my exploration of Komodo National Park ended. I needed AC, a refreshing shower and a good night of sleep! It was a blessing that the live a board staff could accommodate this request, and that the Odyssey was so accessible. I felt bad leaving our happy little group, but my body was telling me to go! The Southeast Asia heat can be so draining!

The pink sand gets it's color from broken down red coral, blending with sand and sea.

The next day, back on the ship a fellow shipmate caught these images of upside down rainbows!

So cool Jim Lovell - thanks for sharing!

They are known as CIRCUMZENITHAL ARCS which are quarter circles centered on a point directly above the observer, occurring when the sun is 5 to 32 degrees high.

KOH CHANG, THAILAND

By Pat Patrick • July 26, 2026
We just relaxed on the Island of Koh Chang, Thailand. It's one of the largest Thai Islands in the Gulf of Thailand and it has a dense, steep jungle & National Park covering the interior of the Island, which extends off shore, to coral reefs. The coast line is dotted with beaches and villages. This was a tender port, so we decided to stay on the Island for 3 nights, to be able to experience the nightlife. Turns out, it is low season, so nightlife was pretty sleepy. However, we did find a new favorite night time activity! Any Guesses?!?

On the way to Koh Chang, Thailand

By Pat Patrick • July 25, 2026
Love Sea Days ! I got a much needed haircut and color. Think I'll be going shorter, but giving this a whirl! Can you see the back in the mirror? The bangs and side volume, is what drives me nuts in the heat and humidity!

WAT BANG KUNG & TRAIN MARKET - Bangkok ,Thailand

By Pat Patrick • July 21, 2026
Wat Bang Kung Temple was a quick stop along the way to the Train Markets . What makes this unique is the Temple is completely enclosed by roots of four giant trees (a banyan, bodhi and others). From the outside, it looks like nature has swallowed the building. Inside the chapel is a golden Buddha image, that locals still visit to pray. It was quite active during our short visit there. The Temple dates back over 250 years and survived the Burmese invasion.