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MM2H - Malaysia My Second Home

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As a retiree living the expat life in Malaysia, I can safely say that it's a fantastic place to live. The Malaysia My Second Home visa, also known as MM2H, is a very attractive option for both those already retired and working expats. Whether you want to spend your golden years in a tropical paradise or start a new career here, you can do both in Malaysia and live like a king in the process. From the beautiful weather to the diverse cultures, gorgeous sceneries and delicious food, Malaysia has so much to offer. In short, if you're thinking about living in a sun-kissed country, Malaysia is an ideal choice.

Living the Life

One of the main benefits of Malaysia is its low cost of living; housing, groceries, transport, but healthcare too, are all very affordable, especially compared to Europe. What this means is that anyone in Europe who is financially comfortable can enjoy quite a lavish lifestyle here. Take my monthly expenses here for example; they're less than a quarter of what they were in Europe.

Another advantage of life in Malaysia, one that's especially dear to me, is the fantastic weather. Thanks to the tropical climate, the ever-sunny sky and the balmy temperatures, Malaysia is the ideal destination for anyone who prefers the summer and being outdoors. From beaches to jungle to mountains, there's always something to do and see here. For example, we often spend our weekends exploring open-air markets, visiting local sights or trying out new restaurants and pubs. For us, this is the life.

In addition, we're members of a country club and we have access to the swimming pool and the squash and tennis courts at our condo. But we also frequent museums, visit the strawberry farm in the hills, or go to the beach or an island resort, or get some retail therapy in at one of the impressive shopping malls nearby. You really never get bored here.

And did I mention the food? Malaysia is renowned for its diversity of delicious dishes, with flavors derived from Malaysian, Chinese, Indian and Western cultures. It's safe to say that the Malaysian food scene offers something for everyone. Seriously, from so-called street food to multi-course dining in exclusive restaurants, it's simply awesome. Me, I'm particularly fond of the countless foodcourt stalls that can be found all over Malaysia. You can have a nasi lemak, laksa or satay, truly authentically local dishes, for a handful of Ringgit. (Note to self: watch your weight).

Now or Never

The MM2H visa also enables holders to max out the excellent Ringgit conversion rate, making it an especially attractive option for expats from the Euro countries. This means that retirees or full-time employees from these countries can enjoy a standard of living in Malaysia that's literally a few notches higher than back home. It's part of the reason we opted for our current condo, along with a domestic helper for good measure.

Plus, with English widely spoken and many doctors and medical professionals trained in the UK or US, healthcare in Malaysia is at a high standard and accessible.

While there are some downsides to living in Malaysia, such as the relatively high price for beer, cheese and chocolate, along with the generally slow traffic in the main city centres, these are really just smallfry compared to the many benefits of living in this beautiful and ever so friendly country.

Bottom line: As MM2H-holders in Malaysia, we're happy that we chose this wonderful place as our home away from home. Whether you're a snowbird or looking for an early tropical retirement in a sunny sanctuary, or a new career adventure at a stone's throw away from Singapore, we wish you a selamata datang ke Malaysia :)

-- John Mulder --

Mersing Harbour Centre

This is where you collect the ferry tickets you booked online. The complex also has a great food and drinks section, as well as a decent number of cool shops for some last-minute retail therapy, before hopping onto your ferry. Find out more...

Tioman Spa

Pulau Tioman offers several Spa and Wellness Centres that you should give a try. You can select the type of treatment you want from this website, as it lists each of Tioman's resorts and hotels that feature Spa therapies. Find out more...

Tioman Honeymoon

Tying the knot in the not too distant future and looking for an exotic paradise to immerse in newlywed bliss? Take a look at this site. It presents each of Tioman Island's resorts that offer delectable honeymoon packages. Find out more...

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