July 6, 2025

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - DAY 2, PART 2

Scott prepared such a thorough itinerary for us, I had to spit into another post. Above is view of Golden Gate Bridge,  from the Marin side. Then we went back over Bridge to the Academy of Sciences , Music Concourse, Calder Sculpture, Buffalo enclosure, the de Young Museum and Sutro Baths.

Then we went to Alamo Square Park for views of the Painted Ladies ( Victorian Homes) and the City skyline. Next was billionaire row and the Lyons Steps for the harbor views and Nancy Pelosi's house at the bottom right of steps. Jasmine bushes made the walkway so fragrant.

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We did a drive through the famous neighborhood of Haight & Asbury Sts.and had a late lunch at Gordo Taqueria.

Our last stop was at the newer high-rises at Sales Force Park.  They have an elevated walkway and park area above the transportation hub that comes into this busy center. They hold community events in the green spaces. We saw a KPOP class going on while we were there. Scott then dropped us at pier with 5 minutes to spare till ALL ON BOARD. Thanks Scottie for a great day and tour!! We miss you and looking forward to your return in Japan!

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HO CHI MING CITY, VIETNAM

By Pat Patrick • September 21, 2026
HO CHI MING CITY or SAIGON was our last port in Vietnam . The downtown area was an hour away from the Port , so most of us got Hotel rooms in town, as prices were so reasonable. Sadly, it was a rainy four days, but that kept temperatures moderate and we could still get out and do most things. We stayed in district #1 as most of the City highlights are in this area along with the nightlife. Traffic is very busy in the City, especially motorbikes. Crossing the streets needs to be done with intent and quickly as there are very few traffic lights or stop signs.

SHIP SHENANIGANS - CLUE PARTY

By Pat Patrick • September 16, 2026
It's never a dull Sea Day on the Odyssey! We have such creative residents, that are always coming up with new ideas to entertain ourselves and have a good time. This plot was the calculating of Eddie and Michelle - a Game of Clue! The rules were simple - find the party venue at 8:30 pm, come dressed as a character, weapon or room from the game and solve the mystery of who stole the Ship's bell.

TERRACOTTA ARMY - XI'AN, CHINA

By Pat Patrick • September 16, 2026
In March of 1974, some local farmers outside Xi'An, China are digging a well and accidentally hit one of the great archaeological sites in the World! They were paid one day's wages for the find, roughly 4 USD! The Terracotta Army was dubbed the 8th Wonder of the World by France's President in 1980 when he came to visit and wanted to meet the farmers, the oldest was then, 89 years old.