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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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

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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.

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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 -

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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.

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In this engaging conversation, Paula Barnes interviews Sophian Hoe, a Singaporean expat living in Madeira, Portugal. They discuss Sophian's journey to becoming an expat, his experiences in Madeira, and the unique aspects of the island, including its natural beauty, culinary delights, and community feel. Sophian shares insights on travel tips, the best times to visit, and recommendations for dining and local experiences. The conversation highlights the charm of Madeira and the importance of connecting with the local culture.

Key Takeaways

• Sophian Hoe is a Singaporean expat living in Madeira, Portugal
• He moved to Madeira after living in Australia, Dubai, and San Francisco
• Sophian opened the only Singaporean restaurant in Portugal, Makan Madeira
• Madeira is known for its stunning nature and hiking opportunities
• Traveling to Madeira is best done by flying from Lisbon
• The ideal time to visit Madeira is during the winter months
• Madeira has unique local dishes and ingredients not found in mainland Portugal
• Renting a car is recommended for exploring the island
• Five nights is the minimum recommended stay for visitors

Chapters

00:00
Introduction

02:38
How did you end up there?

04:47
How do you bring Singapore to Madeira?

05:55
What is Madeira famous for?

06:50
How to get there?

08:06
Best time of year to travel there

10:22
Food in Madeira

11:52
Do you need to hire a car?

14:33
Where to stay and how long for?

17:06
What authentic souvenir should I get?

19:56
Traditional food

23:36
What has surprised you about Madeira?

26:56
3 day Itinerary

31:59
Sophians Singaporean Restaurant in Madeira

34:46
Best area in Madeira

37:53
Outro to Truly Expat Travel Podcast

38:20
Exploring Travel Guides and Destinations

38:42
OUTRO Paula-2.mp4

Helpful Links and Resources

1. Levada Walks (Levada do Alecrim specifically)
2. Monte Palace Botanical Gardens + Cable Car - Funchal Monte Palace tour
3. Porto Moniz Natural Pools - Madeira Island Tour
4. Laurissilva Forest UNESCO Site -

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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.

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In this episode, Paula Barnes shares her insights and experiences living in Singapore for nearly eight years. She emphasises the importance of viewing Singapore as a destination rather than just a stopover, highlighting its rich culture, diverse food scene, and numerous attractions. Paula provides practical tips for travellers, including the best time to visit, essential items to pack, and insider knowledge on navigating the city. She also outlines a perfect three-day itinerary for visitors, showcasing both popular sites and hidden gems. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the vibrant expat community and the unique experiences Singapore offers.

Takeaways

• Singapore is a city-state with much to offer beyond a stopover.
• The Singapore Chili Crab is a must-try dish.
• Singapore is one of the safest countries for solo travellers.
• The rainy season is a great time to visit Singapore.
• Public transport is affordable and efficient in Singapore.
• Lau Pa Sat is a famous hawker market worth visiting.
• Raffles Hotel is a top destination for luxury travellers.
• Sentosa Island offers a variety of activities for families.
• River Valley is a beautiful neighbourhood often overlooked by tourists.

Chapters

00:00
Welcome to Season Two

01:21
Exploring Singapore: An Expat's Journey

03:15
Singapore's Famous Attractions

05:59
Best Time to Visit and Essential Packing Tips

07:56
Where to get authentic souvenirs?

09:48
Insider Tips for New Expats

12:37
Local Food Recommendations

17:23
Crafting the Perfect Three-Day Itinerary

23:48
Hidden Gems: Local Neighbourhoods to Explore

26:01
Outro to Truly Expat Travel Podcast

26:30
Exploring Travel Guides and Destinations

Resources & Links:

• Singapore Truly — My dedicated Singapore travel site with insider reviews and guides
• Binary Styles — Architecturally inspired scarves and gifts from Singapore
• Gojek — The Indonesian ride-hailing app available in Singapore
• Kinki Rooftop Bar — Stunning views of Marina Bay from downtown Singapore
• Burnt Ends — Michelin-starred modern barbecue restaurant
• Bucket list - Things to do for first time visitors
• Hawker Centres - Guide to Singapore Hawker Centres
• Singapore Travel Guide - Everything from places to stay to the best restaurants

Send us 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

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Expat travel podcast | Hidden gems and insider tips | Best holiday destinations from expats living abroad | Authentic local travel experiences | International lifestyle and adventure stories

Truly Expat Travel brings you the world's best travel destinations through conversations with expats who've made foreign countries their home. Discover hidden gems, local insider tips, and authentic travel experiences you won't find in guidebooks.

Each episode features expats sharing their favourite destinations, secret spots, cultural insights, and practical travel advice from cities and countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. From weekend getaways to bucket list adventures, food scenes to cultural experiences, guests reveal what makes their adopted homes so special.

Perfect for travellers seeking authentic local perspectives, digital nomads planning their next move, or anyone dreaming of exploring the world beyond tourist traps. Get real recommendations from people who live the expat lifestyle every day.

What you'll discover:
• Hidden travel gems recommended by local expats
• Insider tips for popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Cultural insights and authentic local experiences
• Practical advice for international travel and living abroad
• Real stories from expats around the world

🌍 New episodes weekly
✈️ Subscribe for authentic travel inspiration
📧 Collaborations: info@trulyexpat.com

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Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

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Episode 26: Christmas in Hakuba with Blaise and Kiara Barnes

This Weeks Chat:

Join me for the season finale as I chat with Blaise Barnes and Kiara Barnes, about their unforgettable Christmas holiday in Hakuba, Japan. From carving through powder snow to discovering the best après-ski spots, they share their insider tips for experiencing one of Japan's premier winter destinations. Whether you're a seasoned snowboarder or planning your first trip to the Japanese Alps, this episode is packed with practical advice and festive holiday inspiration.

What We Cover:

• Why Hakuba is the perfect destination for a winter Christmas getaway
• Snowboarding in the Japanese Alps and what makes Hakuba's powder so special
• Equipment rental tips and why Rhythm is the go-to shop
• Dining recommendations: The authentic izakaya experience at Izakaya Hie
• Après-ski culture: Drinks and atmosphere at The Aperie Bar
• Christmas in Japan: What it's like to celebrate the holidays in a Japanese ski town

Key Highlights

Snowboarding in Hakuba Blaise and Kiara share their experiences hitting the slopes in one of Japan's most famous ski regions, known for its incredible powder snow and diverse terrain.

Equipment Rental at Rhythm They both recommend Rhythm for hassle-free equipment rental, discussing what makes this shop stand out for snowboarders and skiers.

Dining: Izakaya Hie Get the inside scoop on this local izakaya that captured their hearts with authentic Japanese cuisine and atmosphere.

Après-Ski: The Aperie Bar Learn about the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes, with insights into Hakuba's vibrant après-ski scene.

Helpful Travel Resources

Planning your own trip to Hakuba? Check out these comprehensive guides:

📍 The Best Restaurants to Try in Hakuba Discover more dining options beyond what Blaise and Kiara mentioned, from Wagyu specialists to the best ramen spots.

🏨 The Best Places to Stay in Hakuba A complete guide to accommodation options across Hakuba's different areas, including detailed information about Hotel Rosenheim.

❄️ Things to Know About Hakuba: A Winter Wonderland Essential travel information including how to get there from Tokyo, lift tickets, ski lessons, and activities beyond skiing.

About This Episode

This is the season finale of the Truly Expat Travel Podcast! We're wrapping up with a special family episode that brings together everything we love about travel: adventure, discovery, and sharing experiences with the people we love most.

Connect With Us

If you enjoyed this episode about Hakuba, please leave us a review and share it with fellow snow lovers and Japan enthusiasts!

Have a destination you'd like us to feature? Use the feedback button to let us know where we should explore next season.

The Truly Expat Travel Podcast: J

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Episode 25: Unwrapping Christmas in London with Karla

This Week's Chat

Join me as I chat with Karla Barreca about experiencing Christmas in London, and discover why this magical city transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. Whether you're dreaming of a proper British Christmas or planning your festive getaway, this episode will fill you with holiday cheer and wanderlust.

What We Discuss

• Karla's Expat Story: Why she now calls London home.
  Her first Christmas living in London: The story behind her first Christmas and why she loves it so much.

The Highlights:

• Must-visit spots and hidden gems
• Local cuisine and Christmas markets
• What makes it so special during Christmas
• Seasonal Tips

Practical Bits: Getting there, where to stay, and how to celebrate Christmas

Key Takeaways

• The Christmas lights in the city
• What to eat and drink during the holiday season
• That London has Christmas Markets too!

Mentioned in This Episode

• Christmas Markets: Christmas markets tour
• Christmas Lights: Christmas Lights Double-decker bus tour.
• West End Christmas Shows: Elf the musical
• Winter Wonderland: Tickets sold online here

Other Things to do during the Christmas Season

1. Santa's Grotto at the Queen's House
2. The Snowman
3. North Pole Express Tour with Santa
4. The Great Christmas Feast

Next Week

Join me as we chat about our favourite family destination for Christmas, where we will be discussing Hakuba! A true white Christmas that we love so

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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.

Support the show

Find me on:

Website: Truly Expat Travel

Facebook: Truly Expat

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