Digital Nomad Life in Hobart, Australia
Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Hobart, Australia. Get tips from others living in Hobart about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Hobart and more.
Where should I live in Hobart?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Hobart involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a single room in a shared house to a fully furnished apartment or a standalone house. Next, you should identify the areas in Hobart that you'd prefer to live in. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, safety, and the availability of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms that list rental properties in Hobart, such as realestate.com.au, Domain, and Gumtree. These websites allow you to filter properties based on location, price, property type, and number of bedrooms, among other factors. You can also engage the services of a real estate agent. They can help you find properties that match your criteria, arrange viewings, and guide you through the application process. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to submit an application. This typically involves providing references, proof of income, and identification. If your application is successful, you'll then sign a lease agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy. Finally, before moving in, you'll need to pay a bond (usually equivalent to four weeks' rent) and the first month's rent in advance. The bond is held as security in case you breach the terms of your lease. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," said one person in Hobart.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Hobart?
"Expats in Hobart often appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and slower pace of life compared to larger cities. The rich history and heritage of Hobart, including its well-preserved colonial architecture, is also highly appreciated. Expats often mention the city's vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, festivals, and live music events. They also love the fresh, local produce and the thriving food and wine culture. The natural beauty of Hobart, with its stunning waterfront, nearby mountains, and national parks, is another aspect that expats greatly appreciate. Lastly, the sense of community and safety in Hobart is often highlighted by expats as a major advantage of living in this city," remarked one member in Hobart.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Hobart?
"Expats in Hobart may find the local dialect and slang challenging to understand initially. The pace of life in Hobart is slower than in many other cities, which can be a difficult adjustment for those used to a faster, more hectic lifestyle. The cost of living can also be high, particularly for housing, which may be a challenge for expats. Some expats may find the local cuisine different from what they are used to, and adjusting to the local food can be a challenge. The weather in Hobart can be unpredictable, with four seasons often experienced in one day, which can be difficult for expats from more stable climates. Lastly, while Australians are generally friendly and welcoming, it can take time to form deep connections and friendships, which can be challenging for newcomers," remarked one member in Hobart.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Hobart for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Hobart for an extended period of time, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay. If you are visiting as a tourist, you may need a Visitor visa (subclass 600). If you are planning to work, you may need a Work visa such as the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) or the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186). If you are planning to study in Australia, you will need a Student visa (subclass 500). If you are planning to join a family member who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may need a Family visa such as the Partner visa (subclasses 820 and 801) or the Parent visa (subclass 103). In addition to the visa, you will also need a valid passport. If you are not an Australian citizen, you will need to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into Australia. You may also need to provide additional documents to support your visa application, such as proof of financial resources, health insurance, and character references. The specific documents required will depend on the type of visa you are applying for. Please note that visa requirements can change, so it's important to check the latest information from the Australian Department of Home Affairs before you travel," explained one person living in Hobart, Australia.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Hobart?
We asked people in Hobart if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"In Hobart, it's important to avoid making derogatory comments or jokes about Australia, its culture, or its people. Australians are generally very proud of their country and may not appreciate such remarks. Avoid making comparisons between Australia and other countries, especially in a negative context. Australians are proud of their unique culture and lifestyle and may not appreciate comparisons. Do not disrespect the indigenous culture. Australia has a rich indigenous history and culture, and it's important to show respect and understanding towards it. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or race unless you are well-informed and the conversation naturally leads there. Australians are generally open-minded, but it's always best to approach these topics with sensitivity. Do not litter or disrespect the environment. Australians are very conscious about preserving their natural environment and take pride in their clean, beautiful landscapes. Avoid being overly loud or obnoxious in public places. Australians value their peace and quiet, and being too loud can be seen as disrespectful. Do not assume that everyone in Hobart is a fan of the same sports or teams. Australia has a diverse sports culture, and preferences can vary greatly. Avoid being too formal. Australians are generally laid-back and casual, and being overly formal can be seen as pretentious or out of place. Do not ignore queues or try to jump ahead in line. Australians value fairness and order, and not waiting your turn can be seen as rude. Avoid making assumptions about people based on their accents. Australia is a multicultural country with a diverse population, and making assumptions can be seen as disrespectful," explained one person living in Hobart, Australia.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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