Hong Kong – Veteran broadcaster Stephen Chan is set to debut a groundbreaking travel series, Friends Around the World, airing August 3 on HOY TV. The show takes an unconventional approach to the genre, following Chan as he travels across the United Kingdom, France and Italy to profile 15 Hong Kong expatriates who have rebuilt their lives overseas. The program marks the network’s first-ever dual-channel simulcast with three-language audio options.
Chan, a household name in Hong Kong entertainment, told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday that the series is not a typical tourism program. Instead, it focuses on personal narratives of resilience and reinvention. Viewers will meet Hongkongers who left their homeland to chase dreams in unfamiliar territory—starting over, embracing new cultures and sharing raw, intimate stories of struggle and success.
“This is about showcasing the tenacity and spirit of Hong Kong people to the world,” Chan said. “Each story reflects courage and a determination to thrive against the odds.”
The series was filmed on location in three countries, and Chan spared no effort in preparation. He revealed he packed three large suitcases and one carry-on bag containing nearly 20 personal outfits and six pairs of shoes. “I used to travel light,” he joked. “But now I believe in ‘beautiful clothes for beautiful scenery.’ It creates lasting memories.”
Chan admitted he spent nearly all of his appearance fee on shopping during the trip. At the press event, he displayed an array of purchases from each country, including clothing, jewelry, ties and scarves. Among the highlights was a brand of sustainable luxury jewelry favored by international stars like Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Beyoncé. He also visited a vintage French jewelry shop, where he purchased antique gemstone necklaces and delicate metal earrings. “I just couldn’t help myself,” he laughed.
His wardrobe selections reflected high fashion taste: multiple pieces from a storied French fashion house founded in 1892, known for its elegant Parisian style, refined tailoring and iconic tweed designs. The garments, he said, complemented his gentlemanly image perfectly. Gifts from the featured expatriates also added a personal touch to the collection.
Innovative Broadcast Format
Friends Around the World aims to reach a global audience by debuting with an unprecedented broadcast arrangement. Episodes will air simultaneously on HOY 77 (Cantonese with Chinese subtitles) and HOY 76 (English channel with dual English and Mandarin audio) . For the first time, HOY TV is deploying AI-generated dubbing technology to produce the English and Mandarin voice tracks, ensuring accessibility for non-Cantonese speakers.
The series will also be available on the HOY mobile app, official website and YouTube channel.
“We want to tell the stories of Hongkongers to the world,” Chan said. “This format invites viewers everywhere to connect with these journeys, regardless of language.”
Friends Around the World premieres August 3, promising a heartfelt exploration of identity, belonging and the human drive to build anew in foreign lands.
