Name: Eleni Sarantinou
Home Country: Greece
Marital Status: Married, with 2 children
Other countries you have lived in: Netherlands, France, Belgium, Australia, Dubai
What brought you to Malaysia and how long have you been here?
My husband was asked to setup a regional office for his company in Asia. Malaysia was our choice because of the relaxed lifestyle, great weather, nature, the multi-cultural aspect, and the growing economy. We have been here three and a half years already and are quite pleased with our lives here.
What do you like and dislike about living here?
I love the Malaysian people, their humour and their wit. I have made friends for life already. I dislike the growing crime and the terrible traffic.
Name three typical weekend activities that you enjoy.
I love walking in FRIM (Forest Research Institute of Malaysia) which is 10 minutes from where we live. I also enjoy family days by the pool or travelling to beautiful beach destinations in the region. Because of my work in Personal Development, I also spend many weekends delivering courses in Carcosa Seri Negara, a beautiful venue – history, architecture, and nature in the best combination.
What is your favourite holiday destination in Malaysia or in the region. Why?
Perhentian Island in Malaysia, for its crystal-clear waters! We also love Cambodia as our children are originally from there and it feels like home, too.
What do you miss about your home country?
I carry my home country and the other countries I have lived in with me wherever I go. Plus I get to travel back home quite often for my work.
What advice would you give to a new expat?
The best thing would be to connect with as many people, locals as well as expats. There is an exceptional mix of people from all over the world and Malaysians are one of the most hospitable people in the planet. Enjoy the multi-cultural aspect of Malaysia and take the opportunity to travel in the region as often as you can.
How long do you plan to stay in Malaysia? Where would you like to go next, and why?
We are having a great time here. Our children are happy and surrounded by friends. I am an NLP Trainer and our business is growing here. Malaysia is a great base to travel all over the world, so we are in no hurry to leave!
Is Malaysia a good country to raise children? Why?
Malaysia is a dream spot to raise children in. My own have friends from all over the world, all from different backgrounds, with different traditions. They get to know a world of many choices and have the opportunity to open their minds very early on.
Is Malaysia a good place in which to work and do business? Why?
As a growing economy, Malaysia has many opportunities and I am very fortunate to be in a country where my services are welcomed on both a personal and business level.
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