In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount my first trip through Southeast Asia, covering Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. The journey begins with a memorable flight to Luang Prabang, Laos, on a small prop plane with a unique laminated boarding pass. The landscapes below are a breathtaking mix of green mountains and the brown flow of the Mekong River. Once in Luang Prabang, I explore the local market, savoring street food, and visit the stunning Luang Prabang waterfalls, capturing their beauty through my camera lens despite some technical challenges. Moving on to Chiang Mai, Thailand, I reunite with Karen, a friend met earlier in Cambodia, and we embark on various adventures, including visiting an elephant sanctuary and making onsen eggs in hot springs. The journey continues to Chiang Rai, with its winding roads and unique charm, before heading to Myanmar. In Myanmar, we delve into the rich cultural tapestry, visiting ancient pagodas in Bagan and experiencing local customs like chewing betel nut. Each destination offers a distinct flavor of Southeast Asia, creating a tapestry of vivid memories and immersive experiences.Links:Luang Prabang Night Market — This market is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a variety of street food, local crafts, and souvenirs.Kuang Si Waterfalls — These stunning waterfalls are a popular tourist attraction, featuring multiple levels of falls and natural swimming pools.Mount Phousi — A hill in the center of Luang Prabang offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, dotted with Buddha statues.Rantong Elephant Sanctuary — A sanctuary focused on the well-being of elephants, offering visitors a chance to interact with the animals in a humane and ethical manner.Hot Springs in Chiang Mai — Parks with hot springs where visitors can cook onsen eggs, a unique and popular activity in the area.Pai, Thailand — A small town known for its relaxed atmosphere, natural beauty, and a winding road that is famous for its numerous curves.U Bein Bridge - Wikipedia — The oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world, located in Myanmar, offering scenic views and a glimpse into local life.Bagan — A historic city known for its thousands of pagodas and temples, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset.La Terrazza Bagan — An Italian restaurant in Bagan known for its authentic cuisine and a welcome break from local food, offering dishes like pasta and wine.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I take you to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. My journey begins with a near-miss on a scooter taxi, a thrilling initiation into the city's chaotic traffic. At my hostel, I join a communal dinner, savoring spring rolls and beer with fellow travelers, creating memories that would draw me back years later. My exploration includes a visit to the Cu Chi tunnels, a labyrinthine network that once sheltered and supplied soldiers during the war. Crawling through these narrow, dark tunnels, I feel a mix of claustrophobia and fascination, a stark contrast to the amusement park-like atmosphere of the site. Next, I venture into Cambodia, landing in Siem Reap with the majestic Angkor Wat on my itinerary. After a serendipitous encounter with Fortunata via Couchsurfing, we meet a local taxi driver who takes us to an unexpected yet delightful restaurant experience. Despite initial skepticism, the evening turns out to be a culinary adventure, complete with impeccable service and unbelievably low prices. The following day, Angkor Wat's grandeur leaves me in awe, and a chance meeting with Hama, who would later invite me to Singapore, marks the beginning of a life-changing encounter.Links:Common Room Project — The hostel we stayed at in HCMC.The Bugs Cafe — Blog post about the bug cafe in Siem Reap. (Nice weblog in general.)Pub Street, the Center of Siem Reap's Nightlife Scene — Officially titled “Street 8”, Pub Street is the center of action as the night falls in Siem Reap.Pronounce "A" in Vietnamese — A short YT video with an explanation.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount the continuation of my Southeast Asia trip, focusing on my experiences in Vietnam. I remember opting for a cheap flight from Bangkok to Hanoi, which, in hindsight, I regret due to the discomfort and long queues. Upon arriving in Hanoi, I stayed in a charming boutique hotel in the old quarter, where the hospitality was heartwarming. My first night in Hanoi was memorable, not just for the delicious local food like pomelo salad and pho, but also for a pivotal text from my friend Nikki, which eventually led me to cut my trip short and return to Germany for a new job opportunity. Exploring Hanoi, I was captivated by the city's vibrant street life, where tiny chairs and Heineken beers became the backdrop for life-changing conversations. My journey took me to significant sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Hoa Lo prison, where history felt both real and surreal. A bus tour to Sapa introduced me to the lush, green rice fields and the warm hospitality of a homestay, despite the muddy trails. My adventure concluded with a visit to a quieter bay near Halong Bay, where the beauty was somewhat overshadowed by the throngs of tourists. Returning to Hanoi, I treated myself to a luxurious stay by West Lake, offering a peaceful end to my Vietnamese escapade.Links:Singapore Driving Licence — Official site for obtaining and converting driving licenses in Singapore.Banh mi 25 — Popular spot in Hanoi for authentic and delicious Banh Mi sandwiches.Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum — Wikipedia site for the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a significant historical site in Hanoi.Hoa Lo Prison Museum — Official site for the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, offering insights into its history and significance.Hoàn Kiếm Lake — A central lake in Hanoi, known for its scenic beauty and cultural importance.Indochina Junk - Luxury Cruises to Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay — Offers various cruise options in Halong Bay, known for its beautiful landscapes and luxury services.Sapa Sisters Trekking Adventures – Trekking and tours in Northern Vietnam — A local tour operator offering guided treks and cultural experiences in Sapa.InterContinental Hanoi Westlake | Luxury Hotel in Hanoi — Luxury hotel located on the serene West Lake in Hanoi, providing top-notch amenities and services.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount my journey from Tioman Island to Georgetown, Penang, and further to Bangkok. Georgetown's colonial charm captivates me, with its vibrant street food and stunning murals. A scooter tour reveals Penang's natural beauty, and an adventurous ferry ride leads me to Thailand, where I navigate border crossings and local trains. Reaching Koh Tao, I relish the island's serene beaches and laid-back vibe, despite a rustic overnight boat journey. Bangkok greets me with the chaos of Khao San Road, a lost phone, and a strange encounter with a woman selling a house in Sweden. Yet, the city redeems itself with picturesque views from a skyscraper and a memorable seafood feast with an old friend.Links:myPenang — Official tourism website for Penang, Malaysia, offering information on attractions, activities, and accommodations in Georgetown and beyond.Palm Mansion Boutique Suites, George Town — Listing for Palm Mansions, a charming colonial-style BnB in Georgetown, Penang.@themugshotcafe — Popular café in Georgetown, Penang, known for its coffee and pastries.@hippoburgerkohtao — Restaurant in Koh Tao known for its burgers and casual dining atmosphere.Chatuchak Market — Official website for Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, one of the largest weekend markets in the world, offering a variety of goods and food.ICONSIAM — A luxury shopping mall in Bangkok, known for its high-end stores, dining options, and river views.The Grand Palace — Official website for The Grand Palace in Bangkok, a major historical and cultural site.Ratchada Train Night Market — Information on the Train Night Market Ratchada, a popular night market in Bangkok known for its food, shopping, and vibrant atmosphere.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount my solo adventure to Kuala Lumpur after parting ways with Philipp. The journey begins with a hectic AirAsia flight from Manila, reminding me of the serene joys of train travel. Upon arriving in Kuala Lumpur, I reconnect with friends Misha and Verena, who I met on a train to Mongolia. We stay in a budget hostel, explore the vibrant Chow Kit wet market, and savor a memorable breakfast at The Red Bean Bag. The day unfolds with sightseeing, culminating in a daring taste test of the infamous durian fruit, which leaves us both intrigued and repelled. The narrative shifts to a lively night out, filled with billiards, beers, and spontaneous club-hopping, ending with an unexpected stay at a nearby hotel. The next day, I rest and then wander through Petaling Street Market and Jalan Alor, soaking in the local atmosphere. My journey continues with a bus ride to Mersing and a ferry to Tioman Island, where I reunite with Misha and Verena. Despite basic accommodations and scarce food supplies, we revel in the island’s natural beauty, highlighted by an exhilarating jungle hike to a secluded waterfall. The trip concludes with a thrilling scooter ride and a nerve-wracking dash to catch a flight to Penang, setting the stage for future adventures in Thailand.Links:The Red Beanbag — Official website of The Red Beanbag, a popular breakfast and brunch café in Kuala Lumpur known for its crab cakes and eggs benedict.Senai International Airport — An international airport in the town of Senai, Kulai District, Johor, Malaysia, serving Johor Bahru and the southernmost region of Peninsular Malaysia.Cataferry — Cataferry offers comfortable and spacious catamaran ferry services to Tioman and Langkawi islands.Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (klia2) — Comprehensive guide to KLIA2, the low-cost carrier terminal in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Chow Kit Wet Market — A guide to Chow Kit Market, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most vibrant and colorful wet markets, offering fresh produce, meat, and seafood.KLCC — Official website for KLCC, featuring the iconic Petronas Towers, a convention center, a shopping mall, and a park.Pavilion Kuala Lumpur — Website of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, a premier shopping destination with a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.Din Tai Fung — Website of Din Tai Fung Malaysia, renowned for its Taiwanese cuisine, especially xiao long bao (soup dumplings).Jalan Alor — Guide to Jalan Alor, a famous food street in Kuala Lumpur offering a wide variety of local Malaysian street food.Tioman Island — Tourism website for Tioman Island, providing information on travel, accommodations, and activities on the island, including diving and hiking.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I find myself embarking on a new chapter of my journey, this time in the vibrant Philippines—alone for the first time in weeks after parting ways with Philipp. As I navigate the bustling streets of Manila and settle into the luxurious Shangri-La, the solitude feels strange yet liberating. The city's chaotic charm quickly becomes evident through a series of misunderstandings with an Uber driver and an unexpected encounter at the hotel, setting the tone for my solo adventure. As I adjust to being alone, my travels take me to the serene surroundings of El Nido. Opting for a secluded Airbnb in the jungle, I embrace the quiet, finding peace in the simplicity of my surroundings despite the initial boredom. Learning to ride a scooter becomes a thrilling necessity, opening up new vistas of lush landscapes and local life. Adventures to local waterfalls and beaches interspersed with moments of reflection and unexpected social interactions enrich my experience, marking a significant, introspective phase of my travels.Links:Makati Shangri-La, Manila — A luxury hotel located in the business district of Manila, offering upscale rooms and a variety of amenities including a renowned breakfast buffet.El Nido Tourism — Official tourism site for El Nido, Palawan, providing information on activities, accommodations, and attractions in the area known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty.El Nido Tours A, B, C — Information about boat tours and Helicopter Island, a popular destination for boat tours in El Nido known for its unique shape and pristine beaches.Plaza de Roma — Historical plaza located in Intramuros, Manila, surrounded by significant landmarks and featuring a statue of King Carlos IV of Spain.Balut — Information about Balut, a traditional Filipino street food that is a fertilized duck egg with a developing embryo inside, considered a delicacy.Red Horse Beer — Information about Red Horse Beer, a popular strong beer in the Philippines known for its high alcohol content and distinct taste.COMMENTS

Landing in Bhutan was like entering a new world, nestled between towering mountains at Paro Airport, where the intricate architecture hinted at the cultural richness waiting to be discovered. Our arrival was marked by traditional white scarves and local rice wine, setting a welcoming tone for our adventure. As we journeyed through the lush landscapes to Thimphu, each sight—from the serene local temples to the vibrant markets—offered a deeper understanding of this quiet yet profoundly spiritual country. Exploring further, we encountered the unique traditions and daily life of Bhutan. Hiking through the Himalayas was challenging but rewarding, revealing breathtaking monasteries perched in the mountains, each adorned with colorful wall paintings and golden Buddhas. The tranquility of these sacred spaces, combined with the natural beauty of the trails and the genuine hospitality of the Bhutanese people, left us with a profound sense of peace and a deep respect for this secluded kingdom.Links:Locolust — A weblog about the joys of travelling. By yours truly.Druk Air Official Website — The national airline of Bhutan, known for operating in challenging conditions and offering routes to and from Bhutan, including business class services on modified planes for landing in mountainous Paro.Welcome to Bhutan — The official tourism portal of Bhutan providing information on travel, accommodations, and local customs such as the use of traditional welcome scarves.Betel Nut — An article discussing the impact of betel nut chewing, including cultural significance and health implications.Zombala2 Restaurant — A popular restaurant in Thimphu, Bhutan, noted for its delicious momos and unique chili fries.108 — The meaning of the number 108 in Buddhism – and elsewhere.Six Senses Bhutan — A luxury hotel known for its exquisite service and dining options, including local and international cuisine.The Tiger’s Nest — One of Bhutan’s most revered and iconic landmarks, perched on the cliffs above the Paro Valley.Kira (Bhutan) - Wikipedia — Provides information on the traditional national dress for Bhutanese men and women, including the significance and occasions for wearing the dress.COMMENTS

Guests Sebastian and Victor join in exploring the vibrant energy of Taipei, Taiwan. From bustling food markets to hidden hot springs, they share adventures and culinary explorations, making every moment unforgettable. Discover iconic landmarks like Taipei 101 and Sun Moon Lake while forming new friendships and cherishing vibrant memories.

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount the transition from Korea to Japan, starting with a curious encounter with a kimchi pastry in Busan. This prelude to our travels led us to a ferry ride to Fukuoka, where Japan presented itself not with the anticipated high-tech spectacle but with serene, orderly streets and an unexpectedly quiet ambiance. Settling into our modest accommodations, we dove into the local cuisine with a bowl of hearty ramen and marveled at the advanced features of Japanese toilets. The culinary journey peaked with our first taste of Kobe beef, an experience marked by its subtle, buttery texture and rich flavors, highlighting the unique culinary heritage of Japan and setting the tone for a trip filled with surprising discoveries and quiet reflections.Links:Beetle Ferry Service — Official site for the Beetle ferry that operates between Busan, South Korea and Fukuoka, Japan, providing schedules, ticket information, and booking options.Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum — Official website for the museum in Hiroshima dedicated to documenting the atomic bomb's impact on the city and promoting peace and nuclear disarmament.Koyasan Shukubo Association — Provides comprehensive travel information about Koyasan, Japan, focusing on its spiritual significance, accommodations in monasteries, and cultural experiences.Japan Rail Pass — Official site to purchase the Japan Rail Pass for tourists, which offers unlimited travel on Japan Rail national trains for a fixed period.Asahi Breweries — Explore the range of beers offered by Asahi, one of Japan's leading beer brands mentioned for pairing with meals in the podcast.Tsukiji Outer Market — Information site for the famous market in Tokyo, which although changed from its original form, still offers a variety of fresh seafood and produce.Akihabara Maid Cafes Guide — Portal to maid cafes in Akihabara, Tokyo, where staff dressed in maid costumes serve guests in a unique, themed environment.COMMENTS

In tonight’s episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I reminisce about when my brother Philipp and I unexpectedly ventured into South Korea seven years ago. Originally aiming for China, visa complications rerouted us to Seoul, a city that took us by surprise with its modern vibe and technological advancements. This unplanned detour turned into a deep dive into Korean culture—sampling spicy local dishes, navigating Seoul's efficient public transport, and experiencing the DMZ's tense atmosphere. Our journey through Korea was marked by spontaneous decisions and new friendships, like meeting Frederick, a globe-trotting courier with an intriguing story. Each unexpected twist in Seoul—from our struggles with spicy octopus to insightful tours at the DMZ—revealed the essence of travel: the joy found in unforeseen adventures and the profound connections made along the way.Links:Incheon International Airport — Official website of Incheon International Airport, providing flight information, airport services, and facilities in Seoul, South Korea.Kakao Maps — A popular local mapping service in South Korea, offering detailed maps and navigation services, optimized for local users.Brooklyn Pig Burger Cafe — Brooklyn Pig Burger Cafe in Seoul, a popular spot known for its American-style burgers.DMZ Tours — Official booking site for tours to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between South and North Korea, offering various tour options and educational resources.Haeundae Sand Festival — Haeundae Sand Festival in Busan, a popular event featuring sand sculptures and beach activities.COMMENTS