Name: Anna Tatarnikova
Home Country: Uzbekistan
Designation/Industry/Company: Marketing Manager, THE BAR°N, Mont Kiara
Other countries you’ve lived in: Kazakhstan, Russia, UK
What brought you to Malaysia?
I first visited Malaysia as a tourist and stayed for a month. During my trip I was fascinated with everything this country has to offer, and I promised myself that I would come back to take up an English language course. My second visit then turned into my third visit, and Malaysia has touched my heart so deeply that it has now been four years!
What do you like and dislike about living here?
I absolutely love the weather! Apart from that, I also totally love the different types of food that is available at all hours of the day, the people’s warmth and hospitality, and the energy and culture. In fact, I like everything except the taxi drivers.
Name three typical weekend activities that you enjoy.
I love to go for short trips, especially to the seaside, to places such as Port Dickson, Penang, Malacca, and Morib. I also enjoy hiking in FRIM because of the lush greenery and serenity that provides a good break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sometimes I cycle in Putrajaya and visit the nature parks.
What is your favourite holiday destination in Malaysia or in the region? Why?
Penang for sure! It’s the place I would go back to time and time again. To me, it is the most beautiful place in Malaysia. The local fare is fantastic, people are friendly, the white sandy beach and the warm water, Penang Hill – it is indeed a dream place for me to be.
Describe a memorable eating experience you have had here.
I think the most memorable experience was when I tried durian for the first time in SS2. All my Malaysian friends gathered around expecting me to throw up, but to their surprise, I liked it! What’s more, I even went for the durian buffet.
What do you miss most about your home country?
Some of the things back home that I miss the most are the subtle winters, the cheap berries, and my family of course.
What advice do you have for a newly arrived expat?
Don’t give up too fast. If this is your first time here, you might think that it is not really a good place to live in but allow yourself some time to adjust. One day, you may just wake up and find yourself loving the country!
Read more:
- An Australian Expat in Malaysia Shares His Experience Living Here
- An Interview with a French Expat Living in Malaysia
- A Chat with an Expat from The Philippines
Source: The Expat magazine October 2015
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