web02.fireside.fm Mon, 18 May 2026 04:40:17 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Sleepless in Singapore - Episodes Tagged with “Backpacking” https://www.sleepless.sg/tags/backpacking Sun, 21 Apr 2024 21:00:00 +0800 As night falls, join me on 'Sleepless in Singapore' for a laid-back journey through my daily life in Singapore and tales from travels around the world. Then, fall asleep to the soothing sounds of Goethe, Schiller, or Kant being read in a calming voice. en-us episodic Let my voice be your guide to a restful night. Julian Lindner As night falls, join me on 'Sleepless in Singapore' for a laid-back journey through my daily life in Singapore and tales from travels around the world. Then, fall asleep to the soothing sounds of Goethe, Schiller, or Kant being read in a calming voice. no Sleepless in Singapore, Relaxation Podcast, Sleep Aid, Tranquil Narration, Storytelling, Travel, Cultural Exploration, Food and Travel Podcast Julian Lindner julian@lindner.earth Episode 14: World Trip I (pt. 6) – Korea https://www.sleepless.sg/14 ce22cbfd-4ebe-4786-80c7-5529409514ee Sun, 21 Apr 2024 21:00:00 +0800 Julian Lindner full Julian Lindner In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore", I reflect on the changing plans of my travels with Philipp seven years ago, including our thwarted attempt to enter China, a spontaneous but enlightening detour to Korea, and the unexpected friendships and technological surprises that reshaped our journey and left lasting impressions. 51:56 no <p>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.</p> <p>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. </p> Sleepless in Singapore, Podcast, Julian, Philipp, Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Korea, Seoul, Busan, DMZ, travel, memory, backpacking, South Korea, cultural experiences, Incheon Airport, Korean barbecue, live octopus, Instagram stories, Silk Road 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 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
]]> Episode 11: South East Asia 2023 (pt. 2) https://www.sleepless.sg/11 eba5e6ee-aa1c-4fa7-81fe-e1e760983f71 Sun, 31 Mar 2024 21:00:00 +0800 Julian Lindner full Julian Lindner In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount some experiences and mishaps from a Southeast Asia trip with my friend Hatim, including an accidental upgrade to super VIP on a ferry, a culinary adventure with chicken feet, an insightful train journey to Bangkok, a scooter incident with the police in Chiang Mai, and a memorable two-day boat trip down the Mekong River to Luang Prabang, all intertwined with cultural insights, local interactions, and the challenges and delights of travel. 54:31 no <p>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.</p> <p>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. </p> Sleepless in Singapore, Podcast, Southeast Asia, Jakarta, Laos, Koh Tao, Chumphon, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Huoixiai, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, ferry, train travel, scooter, temples, street food, night markets, backpacking, cultural experiences, floating market, overnight train, local cuisine, Southeast Asian adventure, visa on arrival, Mekong River, Pak Beng, floating lunch, cave temples, local markets, high-speed train 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 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
]]> Episode 7: World Trip I (pt. 1) – Leaving https://www.sleepless.sg/7 87298def-ddfc-4f53-88d8-4a8c21b67023 Sun, 03 Mar 2024 21:00:00 +0800 Julian Lindner full Julian Lindner In this episode of 'Sleepless in Singapore', I recount the beginning of a transformative journey from back home, my small village near Mannheim, Germany, through Eastern Europe to Southeast Asia, where I still am today. 40:44 no <p>In this episode, I kick off my biggest trip yet, starting from grandma's house near Mannheim, Germany, and aiming for Beijing, before exploring Southeast Asia. The journey is sparked by a rough patch in my career, leading me to quit my job without a backup plan for the first time ever. In search of a fresh perspective, I ring up my brother Philipp and pitch him the idea of taking the Trans-Siberian Railway all the way to Beijing. Without hesitation, Philipp is in, asking only about the budget and timing. Just like that, we're set to plan this massive trip, diving into preparations with a mix of excitement and a bit of anxiety.</p> <p>The run-up to departure is a blur of research, packing debates, and a frantic last-minute visa chase. We decide on backpacks, gadgets, and even look up the best SIM cards for the journey. Despite a visa hiccup that almost derails us, we are fueled by the thrill of adventure. Our farewell is a mix of emotions, leaving home with just our backpacks and a plan. As we move from the familiarity of Vienna to the unknown of Bratislava, the trip truly begins to feel like the escape we had hoped for, filled with new sights, tastes, and the occasional challenge.</p> <p>This episode ends before the journey even really starts though – so stay tuned for more. </p> Sleepless in Singapore, Podcast, Episode 7, Mannheim, Germany, Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, Trans-Siberian Railway, Trans-Mongolian Railway, Beijing, Philip, Backpacking, Visa Challenges, Vienna, Wiener Schnitzel, Bratislava, Devin Castle, Budapest, Travel Reflection, Tom Sawyer In this episode, I kick off my biggest trip yet, starting from grandma's house near Mannheim, Germany, and aiming for Beijing, before exploring Southeast Asia. The journey is sparked by a rough patch in my career, leading me to quit my job without a backup plan for the first time ever. In search of a fresh perspective, I ring up my brother Philipp and pitch him the idea of taking the Trans-Siberian Railway all the way to Beijing. Without hesitation, Philipp is in, asking only about the budget and timing. Just like that, we're set to plan this massive trip, diving into preparations with a mix of excitement and a bit of anxiety.

The run-up to departure is a blur of research, packing debates, and a frantic last-minute visa chase. We decide on backpacks, gadgets, and even look up the best SIM cards for the journey. Despite a visa hiccup that almost derails us, we are fueled by the thrill of adventure. Our farewell is a mix of emotions, leaving home with just our backpacks and a plan. As we move from the familiarity of Vienna to the unknown of Bratislava, the trip truly begins to feel like the escape we had hoped for, filled with new sights, tastes, and the occasional challenge.

This episode ends before the journey even really starts though – so stay tuned for more.

Links:

  • Trans-Siberian Railway Official Site — Official website providing information, ticket booking, and planning for the Trans-Siberian railway journey from Moscow to Beijing.
  • TravelSim Official Site — Provides international SIM cards for travelers, offering coverage in over 200 countries to stay connected.
  • Airalo — Even easier and my preferred eSIM provider for travelling these days (2024).
  • Icebreaker Merino Official Site — Offers a wide range of merino wool clothing ideal for travel, known for its comfort and odor resistance. My favourite travel gear.
  • Figlmüller — Place for Schnitzel in Austria.
  • Bratislava Castle — Site for Bratislava Castle, with visitor information including hours and exhibitions.
  • Mondieu Café in Bratislava — A chain of cafes in Bratislava known for its comfortable atmosphere and quality coffee and desserts.
  • Devín Castle — Devín Castle is a castle in Devín, which is a borough of Bratislava.
  • COMMENTS
]]> In this episode, I kick off my biggest trip yet, starting from grandma's house near Mannheim, Germany, and aiming for Beijing, before exploring Southeast Asia. The journey is sparked by a rough patch in my career, leading me to quit my job without a backup plan for the first time ever. In search of a fresh perspective, I ring up my brother Philipp and pitch him the idea of taking the Trans-Siberian Railway all the way to Beijing. Without hesitation, Philipp is in, asking only about the budget and timing. Just like that, we're set to plan this massive trip, diving into preparations with a mix of excitement and a bit of anxiety.

The run-up to departure is a blur of research, packing debates, and a frantic last-minute visa chase. We decide on backpacks, gadgets, and even look up the best SIM cards for the journey. Despite a visa hiccup that almost derails us, we are fueled by the thrill of adventure. Our farewell is a mix of emotions, leaving home with just our backpacks and a plan. As we move from the familiarity of Vienna to the unknown of Bratislava, the trip truly begins to feel like the escape we had hoped for, filled with new sights, tastes, and the occasional challenge.

This episode ends before the journey even really starts though – so stay tuned for more.

Links:

  • Trans-Siberian Railway Official Site — Official website providing information, ticket booking, and planning for the Trans-Siberian railway journey from Moscow to Beijing.
  • TravelSim Official Site — Provides international SIM cards for travelers, offering coverage in over 200 countries to stay connected.
  • Airalo — Even easier and my preferred eSIM provider for travelling these days (2024).
  • Icebreaker Merino Official Site — Offers a wide range of merino wool clothing ideal for travel, known for its comfort and odor resistance. My favourite travel gear.
  • Figlmüller — Place for Schnitzel in Austria.
  • Bratislava Castle — Site for Bratislava Castle, with visitor information including hours and exhibitions.
  • Mondieu Café in Bratislava — A chain of cafes in Bratislava known for its comfortable atmosphere and quality coffee and desserts.
  • Devín Castle — Devín Castle is a castle in Devín, which is a borough of Bratislava.
  • COMMENTS
]]>