Sleepless in Singapore Julian Lindner

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

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount our journey from Irkutsk to Mongolia, an adventure that brought unexpected friendships and breathtaking natural beauty into our lives. Upon arriving in Irkutsk, we didn't linger, quickly moving on to meet Katya, a local who shared incredible tales of her solo travels, from scaling Everest's base camp with minimal gear to navigating deserts and jungles on a shoestring. Her stories, filled with humor and resilience, were both inspiring and a stark reminder of the vast experiences the world has to offer.


Our next major stop was Lake Baikal, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty. This part of the trip was a profound experience, offering moments of reflection and connection with nature. The simplicity and magnificence of Baikal, coupled with the shared moments with friends old and new, underscored the journey's essence. As we moved into the Mongolian steppe, the landscape shifted to endless horizons and a profound sense of tranquility. This segment of our trip, marked by the rugged beauty of the steppe and the simplicity of nomadic life, offered a deep connection to the earth and a peace seldom found in urban existence.
Links:
Trans-Siberian Railway Information — Provides historical and route information about this iconic railway journey that spans Russia, Mongolia, and China.Lake Baikal Guide — Detailed information on the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, located in Siberia, Russia, including its unique biodiversity and tourism opportunities.Irkutsk Overview — Offers insights into the city of Irkutsk, a notable stop on the Trans-Siberian Railway, highlighting its historical significance and attractions.Ulaanbaatar — Information about Mongolia's capital, including its history, culture, and places to visit.Traditional Ger (Yurt) — Provides background on the traditional nomadic homes used in Mongolia, which the podcast host stayed in.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," we hop on the Trans-Siberian Railway, excited and a bit anxious. We’re moving from Moscow’s busy streets to Russia’s wide-open spaces. Our first big stop, Kazan, brings us together with Dina, a fellow traveler whose warmth and tips really stand out. Kazan itself is a revelation, a mix of historical beauty and the unexpected, like finding the perfect pair of sneakers after a minor mishap and discovering an ointment that magically cures smelly feet, making for some quirky travel tales.


Yekaterinburg, however, shifts the mood. The city greets us with a grey, almost color-drained ambiance that starkly contrasts the vibrancy of Kazan. This part of the journey feels like stepping into a different world, where the vividness of life seems muted. Despite this, our spirits remain high, fueled by interactions with locals and the novelty of standing at the border of two continents. The Transib itself gives us a mix of thoughtful and fun moments, like a bizarre yet memorable visit to a train restaurant that could be a scene from a film. Moving forward, all these bits and pieces from our journey weave into a collection of memories that really show off the varied landscapes and cultural richness of Russia.
Links:
Trans-Siberian Railway Official Site — The official website for the Russian Railways, providing detailed information on the Trans-Siberian Railway, ticket booking, and route planning.Visit Kazan - Official Tourism Website — Official tourism portal for Kazan and the Republic of Tatarstan, featuring travel guides, accommodation options, and attractions such as the Kazan Kremlin and Kul Sharif Mosque.Kazan Kremlin — Official website for the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitor information, history, and architectural details of this historic fortress.Couchsurfing — A platform for travelers to find hosts offering a place to stay, fostering cultural exchange and friendships. It is often used for meeting locals and participating in group activities.Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land — Wikipedia site for the Church on Blood in Yekaterinburg, built on the site where the last Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, and his family were executed.Europe-Asia Border Monument — Video of the Europe-Asia border monument near Yekaterinburg, a popular spot for tourists to stand with one foot in each continent.Lake Baikal Guide — Comprehensive guide to Lake Baikal, offering information on the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, including activities, accommodations, and travel tips for Irkutsk.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount a trip across Southeast Asia with Hatim, starting with a lucky break on a ferry from Koh Tao to Chumphon. We accidentally found ourselves in a plush seating area without paying extra, a nice little win that kicked off our adventure. The trip was a mix of comfort, confusion over local names, and the joy of unexpected freebies. From there, we embarked on a train journey filled with friendly chats, even with language barriers, and the quirky charm of traveling through Thailand by rail.


The adventure continued with us navigating through Thailand, sampling local food (even when it meant accidentally ordering chicken feet), and dealing with police checkpoints in a way that turned potential hassles into fun stories. The trip wasn't just about moving from place to place; it was about the people we met, the sights we saw from the back of a scooter in Chiang Mai, and the peaceful days spent on a boat down the Mekong River. Despite the occasional discomfort and the laughable moments of misunderstanding, it was the kind of journey that brings stories to life, connecting us more deeply to each other and the world around us.
Links:
Jamahkiri Resort & Spa, Koh Tao — A luxurious dive resort on Koh Tao known for its breathtaking views and premium accommodations. Ideal for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.Siam Paragon, Bangkok — One of Bangkok's largest shopping malls, offering a wide range of retail, dining, and entertainment options, including a food court with diverse culinary choices and an Apple Store.@madcowbytonisantos — Madcow Gourmet Burger by Toni Santos, the burger place that also served steaks in Bangkok.Melia Chiang Mai — Good and not crazy expensive accommodation in Chiang Mai – if you bring proper shoes and don't need fries by the pool.Pak Beng — This town is a common stop for travelers taking the boat along the Mekong River. While specific accommodations are not mentioned, it's known for its basic lodgings catering to backpackers and river travelers.Pullman Luang Prabang — This upscale hotel offers spacious rooms, a serene setting, and a range of facilities, making it a comfortable base for exploring Luang Prabang.Luang Prabang Night Market — A popular attraction for tourists, offering a wide variety of local crafts, textiles, and street food. Provides a glimpse into the rich culture and culinary heritage of Laos.Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang — A stunning natural wonder near Luang Prabang, known for its turquoise pools and cascading waterfalls. A must-visit for nature lovers and those looking to escape the city's hustle.Vang Vieng — Known for its dramatic limestone karsts and outdoor activities like tubing and hiking. Vang Vieng offers a mix of adventure and relaxation for travelers seeking to explore Laos's natural beauty.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I take you along the first leg of a journey from Singapore to Laos, venturing through Malaysia, Thailand, Laos and almost touching the edge of Cambodia, before flying back home. This trip is a deep dive into some of the beauty of Southeast Asia, marked by the decision to travel light. After a hefty trip to Japan loaded with camera gear, Hatim and I opt for minimalism, packing just a small backpack each. This choice transforms our travel experience, allowing us to move freely and immerse ourselves fully in every moment, from sipping coffee in Malacca to exploring the Cameron Highlands.


The essence of this journey lies not just in the places we visit but in the experiences we gather along the way. From a stolen but recovered GoPro to the simplicity of traveling with just a few essentials, the trip is a collection of small adventures that weave into a rich tapestry of memories. Each destination, from the hustle of Georgetown to the tranquility of Koh Tao, offers its own unique flavor.
Links:
Olukai leather flip flops — The flip flops I raved about.Random Packing Cubes — I have them and I love them.Rimowa Packing Cubes — Posh version of the same thing.Rough Enough TSA Approved Toiletry Bag — The transparent toiletries bags we have. @thecurlytail — Nice place where we had steak, foie gras and burgers in Malacca.@the_old_merchant — A nice bar, very cool Asian vibes and live music.Ringo's Foyer Hostel, Malacca — A budget-friendly hostel in Malacca known for its cozy ambiance and friendly environment.@cafefolome — Cute little breakfast place just by the river.@jonker.88 — Famous laksa place. Some say the best.Healthy Strawberry Farm — Healthy Strawberry Farm is located between Tanah Rata and Brinchang, situated an an exit off the public golf course near Cameron Highlands Resort.@wildthaimookata — Great Mookata place.The Smokehouse Hotel & Restaurant, Cameron Highlands — A boutique hotel and restaurant with British colonial architecture offering traditional English cuisine.Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation — Offers tours of their tea plantation and factory, with a cafe on-site to enjoy fresh tea directly from the source.Wako Sushi, Georgetown — Excellent sushi. Where I spent my 40th birthday.@themugshotcafe — A popular café in Georgetown known for its freshly roasted coffee and homemade bagels.Jamahkiri Resort & Spa, Koh Tao — A resort in Koh Tao offering spa services, diving, and accommodations with stunning sea views.COMMENTS