Hi, I’m Millie, a proud Malaysian Chinese from Johor, Malaysia. I’ve been to over 30 countries and 100 cities, but none of them quite fit like Tasmania does. After some time in Singapore and living in Brisbane and Melbourne, I’ve found my piece of paradise in Devonport, Tasmania. It’s a small city, but I’ve fallen head over heels for it. The people are lovely, the lifestyle is calm, and the natural beauty is breathtaking. Tasmania is where I feel most at home, and it’s the place I’ve chosen to be.
Cultural Differences
One of the first things I noticed when I arrived in Devonport was the warmth of the people. It’s not that Malaysians aren’t friendly, but there’s something truly special about the kindness here. Perhaps it’s because this place is so safe that people dare to be open and friendly with each other. The lifestyle in Devonport is also wonderfully slow-paced and relaxed, which suits me just fine. I’m an outdoor enthusiast, and I appreciate how people here embrace outdoor activities.
What’s even more remarkable about life here is that I don’t feel the weight of societal judgement or expectations that I experienced in other places. People don’t expect me to conform to specific fashion norms; I can dress as I like as long as I’m comfortable, and nobody cares how I look. There’s no pressure to get married by a certain age, and it’s heartening to see that people encourage continuous learning. Some individuals pursue higher education or change careers even after marriage, and it’s perfectly okay. I absolutely love the freedom and open-mindedness that Devonport offers in this regard. It’s one of the many reasons why I feel so at home here.
Scenic Beauty
Living by the river and surrounded by stunning mountains for hiking is a dream come true for someone like me. There’s something magical about discovering new trails and taking in the breathtaking views. I’ve captured many of these moments through my photography, and I can’t wait to share them with you.
Tasmania, often referred to as the “Natural State” or “Island of Inspiration,” is truly a natural wonderland. This island is a haven for nature enthusiasts because of its abundant wilderness and unique ecosystem. Compared to the rest of Australia, Tasmania remains relatively untouched, making it a sanctuary for wildlife and natural beauty. The island’s rugged terrain, ancient forests, and pristine waters provide a perfect habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. Tasmania’s commitment to conservation and its lower population density contribute to the preservation of its natural treasures. It’s this combination of factors that makes Tasmania a true paradise for nature lovers like me.
Local Cuisine
The only downside is that there are no Malaysian restaurants in Devonport, so I occasionally make the trip to Launceston (which is over an hour drive, mind you) to savour some authentic Malaysian cuisine. I’m seriously considering learning how to cook Malaysian dishes myself – a project for the future!
In Tasmania, there’s a strong emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and you’ll often find a wealth of seafood on the menu, including succulent Tasmanian salmon and delicious oysters. Additionally, the island’s lush agricultural landscape allows for an abundance of fresh produce, making farm-to-table dining a common practice. Tasmanian cheeses and wines are renowned, so you’ll frequently encounter artisanal cheese platters and wine pairings. While Malaysian cuisine isn’t as prevalent, Tasmania’s food scene offers a delectable variety of culinary delights that celebrate the region’s natural bounty. Personally, I’ve learned to appreciate fresh oysters in a whole new way since moving to Tasmania.
Community and People
I’ve always been someone who appreciates alone time to recharge, and when I first moved to Tasmania, I decided to keep to myself. However, life had different plans for me, and I’ve now made a few wonderful friends here. Despite that, I still cherish my solitude and enjoy my quiet moments.
One unique aspect of life in Tasmania is that there are relatively few people here, which creates a close-knit community. It often feels like almost everybody knows everybody, or at the very least, you’ll know someone who knows the person you know. It’s a tight, welcoming circle that makes for a warm and friendly environment.
Festivals and Events
In Devonport, which is quite different from the bustling scenes of Johor and Singapore, the pace of life is more relaxed. Unlike those big cities where there are countless people and endless activities to choose from, Devonport offers a change of pace. While there may not be as many events and activities here, when an event does happen, it’s a special occasion. You’ll often run into familiar faces, and it’s a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with friends. The contrast to the constant hustle and bustle of bigger cities means there’s less fear of missing out (FOMO) because people aren’t constantly inundated with endless things to do.
Adventures and Exploration
I’ve had the privilege of exploring most of Tasmania, more than many locals, and I only have the southernmost part left to discover. Each trip has been an adventure, and I can’t get enough of this place’s natural beauty. In fact, I’m always on the lookout for new buddies to join me in hiking and camping, so if you’re someone who shares my love for the great outdoors, feel free to reach out! Let’s embark on these adventures together and create some unforgettable memories.
Weather and Seasons
Tasmania’s climate is quite different from Malaysia’s constant heat. I’ve come to appreciate the drier weather, which is perfect for hiking, even during colder months. While I enjoy the cold, I still have a soft spot for summer – not too hot like in Malaysia, and perfect for camping, which I absolutely adore.
One significant difference that I’ve noticed is the weather patterns. Even on rainy days, it doesn’t rain for too long, and the showers pass quickly. Thunderstorms are a rare occurrence, which is quite the contrast to the more frequent thunderstorms I was accustomed to in Malaysia. Tasmania’s climate offers a certain predictability that makes outdoor adventures even more enjoyable.
Learning Experiences
Finding a job in a new country, especially one as beautiful as Tasmania, wasn’t easy. I’m still working on getting into media production, which I’m passionate about, but it’s a challenge without connections. Persistence is key. It’s worth noting that without a valid residency, the job hunt becomes even more challenging, and the government’s policies don’t always make it easy for newcomers. Tasmania’s population isn’t as dense as in other places, so job opportunities might be more limited, but I’m determined to carve out my niche here and follow my passion.
Tips for Newcomers
For those considering a move to Devonport or Tasmania in general, I’d recommend joining our Facebook group, “Malaysians in Tasmania.” It’s a great way to connect and network. Practise your English skills and learn how to be friendly – it goes a long way in this welcoming community.
Day-to-Day Life
My work-life balance in Devonport is spot on. I work three to four days a week, sometimes more when I’m feeling energized, and I don’t have to worry about working overtime without being compensated – which is wonderful! Here, people truly appreciate the importance of work-life balance. Nobody will look down on you when you say you only work three to four days a week. It’s a stark contrast to the work culture in places like Singapore and Malaysia, where working overtime is the norm, and there’s often a mistaken belief that you’re lazy if you don’t put in extra hours. In Devonport, there’s a genuine understanding that life is about more than just work, and I couldn’t be happier about it. This balance allows me to focus on self-improvement, and I’ve even started going to the gym to stay fit and healthy.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, I’m eager to meet more like-minded people who share my passion for outdoor activities. Devonport has given me so much, and I’m excited to see what the future holds in this beautiful corner of Tasmania.
Living in Devonport has been an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to share more of my adventures and insights with you. Stay tuned for more updates on life in this amazing city! Thanks for joining me on this journey.
If you’re considering a visit to Tasmania or planning a photoshoot in this beautiful part of the world, don’t hesitate to send me a message. I’d be delighted to offer tips, insights, or even collaborate on capturing the beauty of Tasmania through the lens. Feel free to reach out, and let’s make your Tasmanian adventure a memorable one!