Hey! I'm Aashima. I run my own fashion manufacturing agency, lead projects, and enjoy crafting stories. I've made Canada my home for the past 5 years and my life is a mix of travel for both work and leisure.

One of the joys of travelling for me is meeting new people. I'm always eager to share my experiences and equally excited to listen to what others have to say. In each city I visit, I make a point to explore its local library. It's fascinating how the same book can take on a new life in a different setting.

I joined Couchsurfing because I love to connect with people who have their tales to tell. Living in the vibrant heart of downtown Toronto with my patner, my home is a welcoming space for fellow travellers. If you're passing through, let's get together and exchange some memorable stories!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on Couchsurfing because I believe that every person we meet has a unique story to tell, and these stories enrich our lives in ways we often can't imagine. Travelling isn't just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing them through the eyes of those who know them best - the locals.

Through Couchsurfing, I'm looking to build a global network of friends and cultural exchanges. Whether it’s sharing a meal, exploring the city, or just having a heartfelt conversation, these experiences make each trip unforgettable.

Moreover, hosting fellow travellers in Toronto gives me the chance to show off my city and make sure others can feel its charm and warmth, just like I do. It's my way of giving back to the travel community that has given me so much.

In essence, Couchsurfing for me is more than just a travel tool; it's a gateway to understanding the world better, one story at a time.

Interests

• writing
• poetry
• singing
• nightlife
• traveling
• socializing
• music
• cycling
• hiking
• kayaking
• swimming
• road trips
• friends
• storytelling
• dance
• going out
• driving
• netflix
• social media
• networking
• newyork

Music, Movies, and Books

Favorite Music:

Sigur Rós - Icelandic post-rock that blends ethereal soundscapes with haunting melodies.
Fela Kuti - Nigerian Afrobeat pioneer known for his complex rhythms and fusion of jazz and funk.
Ramin Djawadi - Composer of iconic scores like "Game of Thrones" and "Westworld", blending orchestral and modern elements.
Nina Simone - A mix of jazz, blues, and folk, her music is both powerful and emotionally resonant.
Anoushka Shankar - Sitar player and composer who masterfully blends classical Indian music with global genres.

Favourite Movies:

"The Grand Budapest Hotel" - A visually stunning film by Wes Anderson known for its unique storytelling and aesthetic.
"Pan's Labyrinth" - A dark fantasy film by Guillermo del Toro that combines historical narrative with a mythical world.
"Amélie" - A French romantic comedy that's whimsical, colorful, and deeply heartwarming.
"Spirited Away" - A masterpiece of animation by Hayao Miyazaki, offering a blend of fantasy and meaningful storytelling.
"The Fall" - Directed by Tarsem Singh, known for its striking visuals and compelling narrative.

Favorite Books:

"One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel García Márquez - A magical realist novel that's a staple of Latin American literature.
"Norwegian Wood" by Haruki Murakami - Combines elements of nostalgia, melancholy, and existential contemplation.
"Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari - An insightful look into the history and impact of Homo sapiens.
"The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle" by Haruki Murakami - A surreal narrative that weaves together themes of loss and isolation.
"Invisible Cities" by Italo Calvino - Explores imagination and the imaginable through the descriptions of cities by Marco Polo.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I traveled alone through Thailand's countryside to immerse myself in the local culture and learn traditional crafts. From village artisans, I learned techniques passed down for generations, gaining insights not just into their crafts, but into their way of life. This journey was a deep dive into cultural exchange and personal growth.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach: I can share insights into the world of design and storytelling. From the basics of graphic design to crafting compelling narratives, I love to help others unleash their creative potential. Plus, if you're interested, I can teach you some unique traditional crafting techniques I picked up during my travels!

Learn: I'm always eager to learn about different cultures, languages, and lifestyles. If you have a skill, a story, or a piece of your heritage to share, I'm all ears. Teach me a recipe from your country, a phrase in your language, or share a local legend – I cherish it all.

Share: Sharing experiences is what Couchsurfing is all about! I'm happy to share my travel stories, especially the offbeat adventures and the lessons they've taught me. Let's exchange stories of our most memorable travels, discuss our favorite books and movies, or delve into the fascinating world of different art forms.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I bring stories from around the world and a keen interest in cultural exchange. I'd love to share my experiences in design and storytelling, teach a bit of traditional crafting I've learned on my travels, and maybe even cook a signature dish from Canada and India. Expect good conversations, a few laughs, and a genuine appreciation for the opportunity to connect.

Countries I’ve Visited

Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Mexico, Nepal, Netherlands, Peru, Spain, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, India