September 19, 2025

TAIPEI WATER DANCE FESTIVAL

We were able to catch one of the 5 nightly shows off the Songshan Xiikou Wharf's Rainbow Bridge on our drive into Taipei - rainbow colored lights flash along and water gush off the side of the bridge.

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We went up to the 89th floor observation deck in the Taipei 101 Tower, which was the tallest building in the world when it opened in 12/31/2004 but is now #11. It's the only really tall building in Taipei's skyline and they have a fantastic firework display from it for Chinese New Year! It is also the only building that has their tuned mass  damper, exposed for public viewing on the 88th & 89th floors. A true engineering marvel! Also love the baby dampers who explain it all around the exhibit.

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All around the observation deck they have photo spots set up to entertain the fans! We had some fun with them!

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.