114. Paula Barnes on Raising Kids Abroad

In this conversation, Keltie speaks with travel creator, podcast host, and mom, Paula Barnes, about the intricacies of raising kids while living abroad.

Hear them discuss:

The importance of community, and the concept of found family among expats.

What it was like for Paula first moving to a foreign country with young kids, and how she navigated the transition.

The impact various cultural perspectives have had on her kids' education and lives.

The challenges and rewards of sending her kids to boarding school in a different country — and how she has had to learn to let go.

How to instill values in kids being brought up in a privileged environment.

The evolution of Paula's relationship with her kids as they grow into adulthood, and the transition to becoming an empty nester.  (2:51) Meet Paula & her Kids or Childfree choice; (10:57) Comparing raising young children with and without support; (14:23) Moving abroad with 3 kids; (25:10) Sending her children to boarding school; (39:54) Instilling values in kids raised in a privileged environment; (45:52) Being an empty nester/having adult children

About Paula:

Paula Barnes is a travel creator, podcast host, and expat who has spent nearly two decades living across Asia. After relocating from Australia to Taiwan in 2006 with her young family, she went on to live in multiple countries, embracing new cultures and building a global lifestyle. Now based between Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney, she shares authentic travel insights, expat experiences, and insider tips through Truly Expat Travel. Passionate about empowering women—especially over 45—to explore the world with confidence, she creates a supportive community for meaningful, experience-led travel.

As mentioned in the episode:

Find Paula online at trulyexpattravel.com