January 4, 2026

Papeete (with a population of  26,000) is the bustling capital of French Polynesia and the cultural heart of the island of Tahiti. Papeete is directly across the lagoon from Moorea and several ferries ( just a 35 minute ride) connect the islands & the only airport is in Papeete. The city is known for its mural arts, Polynesian culture and pearl trade.

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Our first day in Papeete  we went to Te Moahe Resort on a day pass with 30 other ship residents to relax and enjoy their pool and amenities. The deal included a yummy lunch and cocktails. It rained for a short spell in the afternoon, when I just played cards ( Phase 10) with Bosco, under our chaise lounge umbrella. It was a nice relaxing day! Coincidentally, we ran into the French family we shared the snorkeling excursion with in Bora Bora, as we were leaving the Resort and they were checking in - such a small world!

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The second day in Papeete was New Year's Eve  and I walked around the town taking it all in, mostly in drizzling rain. I figured it was my only time to see things since almost everything would be closed on our last day there as it would be New Year's Day. There were tons of French Bakeries, Pearl Shops and Retailers and Restaurants and Bars. I was more interested in the mural arts and people watching, as I strolled around through the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Papeeta, City Hall and the Marche Municipal .

Fresh Flower head dresses are all the rage with the locals for New Years!

I have been getting a chance to brush up my high school French and so far have been able to resist buying any Pearls!

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.