My first encounter with Singapore was during a brief stopover in 2012, en route to Bali. Despite its cleanliness and order, my initial impression was one of a somewhat boring city. This changed dramatically during a second visit in 2017, when my friend Hama showed me the real Singapore – its lively food scenes, natural beauty, and bustling sights. These experiences, combined with several return trips, gradually transformed my view of Singapore from a mere travel hub to a city full of hidden gems and conveniences. The pivotal moment in my expat journey came during a casual conversation with my friend Christian in 2019. Mulling over the challenges of startup life in Germany, he suggested moving to Singapore. This idea, initially laughed off, soon took root. I reached out to an agency for help in setting up my consulting company. The process was smooth, and soon I was not only a business owner but also an employment pass holder in Singapore. The onset of COVID-19 in early 2020, coinciding with my move, led to an unexpected immersion in Singaporean life. The lockdown, though challenging for many, turned out to be a transformative and grounding period for me, solidifying my connection to this dynamic city. So here I am, embracing my life in Singapore with my fiancée, Nat, and diving into various projects, including this podcast. If you're curious about moving here or need business advice, feel free to reach out. Stay tuned for future episodes where I'll delve into the practical aspects of relocating and setting up life in Singapore.Links:Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix — Information on the Formula 1 race held in Singapore.Hawker Centers in Singapore — Guide to famous hawker centers in Singapore for local cuisine.Paul Hype Page & Co. — Business consultancy in Singapore for company incorporation and visa services.Singapore MRT System — Information about Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit system.COVID-19 Measures in Singapore — Information on Singapore's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.Singapore Expatriate Guide — Comprehensive guide for expatriates moving to Singapore.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore", I share my recent adventure in Bangkok, a city that holds a special place in my heart. My spontaneous trip to Bangkok with Nat was a whirlwind of experiences, from staying in a stunning room at Shangri-La Bangkok with breathtaking river views to exploring the vibrant city life. Our encounters ranged from a fortuitous meeting with an Indian couple connected to a mutual acquaintance, to indulging in the local flavors at Bang Ruk Bazaar and the thrill of a VR roller coaster ride. Our Bangkok journey was filled with unique experiences, like river boating and exploring night markets. We relished delicious food, including an unforgettable meal at Gaggan, thanks to a serendipitous Instagram find. Sightseeing classics like Wat Arun and Chatuchak weekend market added to our rich tapestry of memories. Despite a camera hiccup, the trip was a blend of cultural immersion, culinary delights, and unexpected encounters, all culminating in a panoramic coffee break at the ICONSIAM's rooftop.Links:Shangri-La Bangkok — Luxury hotel in Bangkok with river views.Bang Rak Bazaar — A popular night market in Bangkok.Sarnies — Western style breakfast cafe in Bangkok.Sony Store at Wisma Atria — Sony store location in Singapore.Gaggan — Famous Indian Chef in Bangkok.Ratchada Train Market — Night market in Bangkok.Chatuchak Weekend Market — One of the world's largest weekend markets.ICONSIAM Shopping Mall — Large shopping center in Bangkok.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I share our recent trip to Vietnam, prompted by an invite to my friend Hatim's elaborate Indian wedding in Kenya. Residing in casual-dress Singapore, I am in dire need of an array of formal and cultural wear for the event. On a recommendation from my gym trainer Bryan, Nat and I spontaneously fly to Da Nang, Vietnam, to visit Bong Tailor in Hoi An, a city renowned for its tailoring expertise. Our visit is a delightful blend of shopping for tailor-made suits and experiencing the rich culture and cuisine of Hoi An and Da Nang. The adventure also includes a whimsical sightseeing tour, featuring a charming ox ride and a traditional boat trip. A visit to Ba Na Hills is a unique experience, with its surreal European-themed architecture creating a quirky, yet enjoyable atmosphere. Sampling local delicacies, like bagels and homemade ice cream, adds to the richness of our journey. Sharing these moments on my podcast, I aim to offer my listeners a peaceful escape, leading them gently towards a restful night.Links:Bòng tailor, Hoi An — Tailor shop in Hoi An, Vietnam for custom suits and dresses.Haiyan Beach Hotel and Spa, Da Nang — Accommodation in Da Nang near the beach.Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant in Hoi An Old Town — Delicious traditional Vietnamese food in a courtyard setting.Ba Na Hills — Tourist resort in Vietnam known for its cable car and European-style village.Port City Bagel and Deli, Hoi An — Bagel shop in Hoi An known for delicious bagels.COMMENTS