Join Paula Barnes as she shares her personal journey and insights about Hong Kong, covering its neighbourhoods, attractions, food, and travel tips. Perfect for travellers and expats alike.

Key Topics

• Hong Kong neighbourhoods and their unique vibes
• Top attractions including: The Peak, Big Buddha, and Disneyland
• Local cuisine and shopping tips
• Seasonal travel advice and public transport options
• Neighbourhood Diversity in Hong Kong
• Seasonal Travel Planning

Action Items

• Plan a visit to Lantau Island and The Big Buddha
• Use the Octopus card for convenient travel
• Explore neighbourhoods beyond Kowloon and Hong Kong Island

Useful Resources

• Best things to do in Hong Kong for first timers
• Lantau Island Must-Do's!
• Best things to do in Hong Kong at night!
• Get Your Guide Storefront

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Hong Kong

01:49
First Impressions: Culture Shock in Hong Kong

06:00
Living in Hong Kong: A Family Experience

08:10
What Hong Kong is Famous For

10:16
Top Attractions and Activities

13:25
Best Times to Visit Hong Kong

15:14
Do I need to hire a car?

15:52
Getting Around: Public Transport Tips

16:03
Unique Souvenirs and Gifts

18:17
Wow Moments in Hong Kong

19:41
Authentic Must Try Cuisine

20:38
Insider Tips for Visitors

22:38
Planning the Perfect Itinerary

27:08
Favourite Neighbourhoods and Hidden Gems

28:33
Conclusion and Final Thoughts

29:14
PaulaOutro.mp4

30:05
OUTRO Paula-2.mp4

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Website: Truly Expat Travel

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Join Paula Barnes in conversation with Oren Chazan, co-founder of Montino, a co-living space nestled in the stunning Lago Maggiore region of Italy. Oren shares his inspiring journey from urban life to creating a thriving community for digital nomads in the foothills of the Swiss Alps.

Discover why Lago Maggiore remains one of Italy's best-kept secrets compared to its famous neighbors, Lakes Como and Garda. Oren reveals the magic of this region—from breathtaking hiking trails and pristine nature to exceptional local cuisine featuring goat cheese, porcini mushrooms, and truffles. Learn about the unique co-living experience at Montino, where community connection meets remote work flexibility, and get insider tips on the best times to visit, transportation options, and hidden villages that offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a digital nomad seeking your next destination or a traveler looking for authentic Italian charm away from the crowds, this episode will inspire you to explore Lago Maggiore's natural beauty and vibrant community.

Key Takeaways

• Oren Chazan co-founded Montino, a co-living space for digital nomads in Lago Maggiore, Italy
• The region sits near the Swiss Alps and offers stunning natural landscapes
• Community connection is the core value proposition at Montino
• Lago Maggiore is less touristy than Lakes Como and Garda, offering a more authentic experience
• The area is ideal for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers
• Best visiting season is May through October for optimal weather
• Having a car makes transportation easier, though hiking to the lake is possible
• Local culinary specialties include artisan goat cheese and porcini mushrooms
• The region is known for truffle hunting and truffle-enhanced dishes
• Exploring small surrounding villages reveals magical, off-the-beaten-path experiences

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Oren Chazan and Montino Co-Living

00:57
Life in Lago Maggiore: A New Beginning

02:10
Creating a Community: The Co-Living Experience

06:20
Exploring the Attractions of Lago Maggiore

10:32
Best Times to Visit and Seasonal Activities

14:30
Getting Around: Transportation Tips

17:40
Local Cuisine and Unique Souvenirs

21:15
The Wow Moment: Discovering the Potential

26:36
Itinerary Suggestions for a Short Visit

30:32
Finding Hidden Gems in Italian Villages

33:01
Closing Thoughts and Invitation to Visit

34:18
PaulaOutro.mp4

35:08
OUTRO Paula-2.mp4

Useful Resources & Links

• Montino Co-living Space - Follow along on their Instagram page
• Hiring a car in Italy - Everything you need to know about y

Send a text

If you'd like to support the podcast, just click the link in the show notes and any contribution you can make helps me keep creating episodes for you.

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

TikTok: Truly Expat

Join Paula Barnes as she speaks with Irene Vairo, manager of the remarkable Temple Tree Resort in Langkawi, Malaysia. Irene takes us on a journey from her roots in Italy to this tropical island paradise, revealing what makes Temple Tree so special—a collection of meticulously reassembled traditional Malaysian houses that offer guests an authentic heritage experience.

In this conversation, Irene unveils the hidden treasures of Langkawi beyond the typical tourist trail. She shares insider knowledge about the island's stunning natural landscapes, vibrant local cuisine, and the warmth of the Malaysian community. Irene paints a picture of Langkawi as a destination where cultural richness meets unspoiled beauty. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, nature lover, or culinary explorer, this episode will inspire you to discover the authentic side of this Malaysian gem.

Key Takeaways

• Irene Vairo is an Italian expat managing Temple Tree Resort in Langkawi
• Temple Tree is a unique boutique heritage resort constructed from reassembled traditional Malaysian houses
• Langkawi boasts pristine beaches, lush nature, and rich local culture
• Nasi Lemak is an essential culinary experience when visiting the island
• The local community is known for its warmth and hospitality toward visitors
• UNESCO National Park and other natural attractions provide opportunities for eco-exploration
• Renting a car or scooter is recommended for maximum island mobility
• Embracing Langkawi's natural beauty and heritage creates the most meaningful travel experience

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Irene Vairo and Temple Tree Resort
01:22 Irene's Journey to Langkawi
03:15 Exploring Temple Tree Resort's Unique Heritage
05:51 Activities and Experiences at Temple Tree
10:46 Must-Try Foods in Langkawi
12:50 What Makes Langkawi Special
14:22 Organizing Activities Outside the Resort
16:51 Best Time to Visit Langkawi
18:36 Getting Around Langkawi
19:36 Exploring Langkawi: Transportation Options
20:51 Unique Souvenirs: Beyond the Typical
22:30 Adapting to Local Life: Tips for Newcomers
23:50 A Taste of Local Cuisine
26:08 Cultural Connections: Langkawi and Thailand
27:56 Wow Moments: The Beauty of Langkawi
29:02 Secret Spots: Hidden Waterfalls and Beaches
30:45 Final Thoughts: Embracing Langkawi's Nature
32:40 Introduction to Truly Expat Travel Podcast
33:09 Exploring Travel Guides and Destinations
33:30 OUTRO Paula-2.mp4

Useful Resources & Links

• Temple Tree Resort - Official website and booking
• My 2 Days at Temple Tree Langkawi -

Send a text

If you'd like to support the podcast, just click the link in the show notes and any contribution you can make helps me keep creating episodes for you.

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

Instagram: Truly Expat Travel

TikTok: Truly Expat