I am from Berkeley, California, USA. I’m on an extended trip around Asia, been in China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand so far and will be traveling roughly the trajectory of the ancient Silk Road across China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and eventually Turkey in the coming months. I love meeting people, swapping stories, and exploring our world.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I am currently on a roughly seven month trip around Asia and beyond, and there is absolutely nothing I love more than hanging out with the locals, whether you’ve been in a city your whole life or are just settling in. The best experiences I have had traveling have been because of connections with locals so of course I’m looking for more of those experiences! I am also a firm believer in the value of having friends all over the world, and what better way to do that than through Couchsurf?!

Interests

• photography
• chinese food
• mexican food
• gardening
• guitar
• backpacking
• canoeing
• camping
• rock climbing
• mountain biking
• learning languages
• learning new things
• anything outdoors
• planning

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: I can say with some confidence that I like absolutely anything, from the Eagles and Fleetwood Mac to Johnny Cash and Waylon to NWA and Kendrick all the way to J Balvin and Shakira - if it has lyrics, I probably like it.

Movies: I love movies. Most any movies. But nothing beats Lord of the Rings...

Books: I read a lot, mostly fiction but recently more nonfiction about the places I’m traveling through, putting my experiences in places into context with the history makes for even more rewarding exploration.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I’ve been in a shot for shot, Indiana Jones style, 53% alcohol by volume rice liquor drinking competition with a bunch of shirtless Chinese farmers in a barn in the middle of an orange orchard in the pouring rain - and won.

Teach, Learn, Share

I speak English, Chinese, some Spanish, and a tiny bit of Russian. I know a lot about the outdoors and outdoor adventure/education. I can help cook. I can play guitar. I’m good at card games. I have lots of experience working with kids. I’m good at building things and engineering solutions. I am more than happy to share any and all skills I have and of course always want to learn more from everyone I meet.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Good conversation, tales of adventure, help in the kitchen, help out of the kitchen, and whatever else I can do to thank you for your hospitality.

Countries I’ve Visited

Azerbaijan, Canada, China, Costa Rica, England, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, United States, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

China, United States