web02.fireside.fm Mon, 18 May 2026 04:43:31 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Sleepless in Singapore - Episodes Tagged with “Germany” https://www.sleepless.sg/tags/germany Sun, 09 Jun 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 21: World Trip I (pt. 12) – Hanoi https://www.sleepless.sg/21 2335e8c4-2b6f-4654-896b-f713f99d40b0 Sun, 09 Jun 2024 21:00:00 +0800 Julian Lindner full Julian Lindner In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I share my experiences from my Southeast Asia trip, detailing my journey through Vietnam, including the challenges of budget travel, exploring Hanoi's vibrant food scene, a memorable night that influenced my career, adventures in Sapa's rice fields, and a mixed review of Halong Bay, concluding with a relaxing stay at a luxurious hotel by West Lake. 41:36 no <p>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.</p> <p>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. </p> Julian, Sleepless in Singapore, Podcast, Southeast Asia trip, Vietnam travel, Hanoi, boutique hotels, Vietnamese food, motorcycle route, travel tips, Hanoi Hilton, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, Hanoi street food, Vietnamese culture, travel scams, Hanoi sightseeing, Vietnamese cuisine, travel adventures 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:

]]> 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:

]]> Episode 19: World Trip I (pt. 10) – Kuala Lumpur & Tioman https://www.sleepless.sg/19 133d35ed-cb92-4e5b-94a3-26e61a9f7b51 Sun, 26 May 2024 21:00:00 +0800 Julian Lindner full Julian Lindner In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount my solo travels in Southeast Asia, starting with a challenging AirAsia flight from Manila to Kuala Lumpur, exploring the vibrant markets and trying durian for the first time, and ending with an adventurous trip to Tioman Island, where I discovered beautiful waterfalls and enjoyed some unforgettable moments with friends. 46:44 no <p>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.</p> <p>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. </p> Julian, Sleepless in Singapore, Podcast, Southeast Asia travel, Kuala Lumpur, AirAsia flight, train travel, Germany to Berlin, KLCC, Chow Kit wet market, durian, Tioman Island, hiking in Tioman, Penang, backpacking in Thailand, pancake trail, KLIA2, Red Bean Bag, Petronas Towers, Pavilion shopping center 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 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
]]> Episode 9: World Trip I (pt. 3) – Kiev & Moscow https://www.sleepless.sg/9 886e073c-231b-4906-b4c2-377ddc9e9c2f Sun, 17 Mar 2024 21:00:00 +0800 Julian Lindner full Julian Lindner In this episode of 'Sleepless in Singapore', I recount my adventures in Kiev, where we met Kolya, the elf-like Airbnb host, and explored the city from its rooftops to its unique restaurants and historical sites, before embarking on a memorable journey to Moscow, where we celebrated my birthday in an unexpected karaoke night and encountered tanks and military parades. 49:29 no <p>In tonight's episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I share my adventures in Kiev and Moscow. The journey kicks off in Kiev, where our Airbnb host, Kolya, turns out to be a real-life elf guiding us to astonishing views of the city from a precarious rooftop. This unique introduction to Kiev, alongside a quirky dining experience at a restaurant called Pervak, sets the tone for an exploration filled with cultural surprises and delicious local cuisine.</p> <p>The narrative then moves to Moscow, where the experience deepens. Here, making friends at the Kremlin Lights hostel, celebrating birthdays with new acquaintances, and getting a taste of local life beyond the tourist trails define our visit. Moscow stuns with its massive subway system and a military parade that's both awe-inspiring and a bit intimidating. </p> Julian, Sleepless in Singapore, Podcast, Russia, Ukraine, Mongolia, Tom Sawyer, military train ride, Kishinau, Kiev, Airbnb, Kolja, rooftop adventure, Pervak restaurant, Blue Cup Coffee Shop, Saint Sophia's Cathedral, Kiev Monastery of the Caves, European Song Contest, Moscow, Kremlin Lights Hostel, Trans-Siberian Railway, military parade, liberation day, Moscow Metro In tonight's episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I share my adventures in Kiev and Moscow. The journey kicks off in Kiev, where our Airbnb host, Kolya, turns out to be a real-life elf guiding us to astonishing views of the city from a precarious rooftop. This unique introduction to Kiev, alongside a quirky dining experience at a restaurant called Pervak, sets the tone for an exploration filled with cultural surprises and delicious local cuisine.

The narrative then moves to Moscow, where the experience deepens. Here, making friends at the Kremlin Lights hostel, celebrating birthdays with new acquaintances, and getting a taste of local life beyond the tourist trails define our visit. Moscow stuns with its massive subway system and a military parade that's both awe-inspiring and a bit intimidating.

Links:

  • Pervak Restaurant, Kiev — A traditional Ukrainian restaurant in Kiev, known for its unique decor and traditional cuisine. The website provides menus, location, and the ability to make reservations.
  • @thebluecupcoffeeshop — A cafe in Kiev known for its breakfast offerings, including Eggs Benedict and pancakes.
  • Saint Sophia's Cathedral, Kiev — A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cathedral is one of Kiev's best-known landmarks, featuring stunning architecture and historical significance.
  • Kiev Monastery of the Caves (Kyiv Pechersk Lavra) — A historic Orthodox Christian monastery in Kiev. The site offers information on tours, the history, and the significance of the monastery.
  • Old Bar, Kiev — A burger place in Kiev mentioned for its casual dining experience, though specifics were not provided.
  • Moscow Metro, Wikipedia — Official website for the Moscow Metro, providing maps, fare information, and history about one of the world's most elaborate and deeply constructed metro systems.
  • Kremlin Lights Hostel, Moscow — The legendary. Where we stayed in Moscow.
  • @ketchup_moscow — A burger place in Moscow, recommended for its good burgers and social atmosphere, where we celebrated a memorable birthday.
  • COMMENTS
]]> In tonight's episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I share my adventures in Kiev and Moscow. The journey kicks off in Kiev, where our Airbnb host, Kolya, turns out to be a real-life elf guiding us to astonishing views of the city from a precarious rooftop. This unique introduction to Kiev, alongside a quirky dining experience at a restaurant called Pervak, sets the tone for an exploration filled with cultural surprises and delicious local cuisine.

The narrative then moves to Moscow, where the experience deepens. Here, making friends at the Kremlin Lights hostel, celebrating birthdays with new acquaintances, and getting a taste of local life beyond the tourist trails define our visit. Moscow stuns with its massive subway system and a military parade that's both awe-inspiring and a bit intimidating.

Links:

  • Pervak Restaurant, Kiev — A traditional Ukrainian restaurant in Kiev, known for its unique decor and traditional cuisine. The website provides menus, location, and the ability to make reservations.
  • @thebluecupcoffeeshop — A cafe in Kiev known for its breakfast offerings, including Eggs Benedict and pancakes.
  • Saint Sophia's Cathedral, Kiev — A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cathedral is one of Kiev's best-known landmarks, featuring stunning architecture and historical significance.
  • Kiev Monastery of the Caves (Kyiv Pechersk Lavra) — A historic Orthodox Christian monastery in Kiev. The site offers information on tours, the history, and the significance of the monastery.
  • Old Bar, Kiev — A burger place in Kiev mentioned for its casual dining experience, though specifics were not provided.
  • Moscow Metro, Wikipedia — Official website for the Moscow Metro, providing maps, fare information, and history about one of the world's most elaborate and deeply constructed metro systems.
  • Kremlin Lights Hostel, Moscow — The legendary. Where we stayed in Moscow.
  • @ketchup_moscow — A burger place in Moscow, recommended for its good burgers and social atmosphere, where we celebrated a memorable birthday.
  • 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
]]>