I am a teacher and writer who has lived in York for the past 15 years. I have travelled to most parts of the globe, although I still haven't been to South America - I really must go! I love art, music, film, food and drink. As a history teacher, if you visit York, I can fill you in on the whole story - from the first Christian Emperor, Constantine, via the Vikings to the Dissolution of the Monasteries, The English Civil War and Dick Turpin - and take you to some excellent bars in between.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I love meeting new people from different parts of the world and I think that offering your home to the curious and the brave is just good for the soul.

Interests

• culture
• literature
• poetry
• wine
• music
• history
• art
• forests
• good food
• comedy
• walks
• craft ale
• log fires

Music, Movies, and Books

I am a little bit in love with Robert Smith and 80's indie, so the Cure, the Smiths and the Stone Roses are regular touchstones; I adore Sigur Ros and the National but also love a bit of pop. My fave films so far this year have been Green Book and If Beale Street Could Talk - I am quite excited about seeing Beats this week! As far as classics go, I am a sucker for Point Break, The Lost Boys and Ferris Beuller's Day Off. I read a lot of poetry, quite like Michael Connelly - although Harry Bosch is getting a little bit stale - was reduced to a sobbing mess by Bernard MacLaverty's Midwinter Break and traumatised by Sally Rooney in Conversations with Friends...

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

My debut novel Serenity Song was published in 2019 under the name Finn Dervan. It is an historical thriller that explores national identity and sectarianism in Ireland. Go to www.finndervan.com to find out more! 🇮🇪

Teach, Learn, Share

I can teach anybody who visits the history of York and show them the best places to eat, drink or just hang out and read a book. I want to learn as much as I can about everybody who stays with me and I'm happy to share everything I have.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I will bring enthusiasm, courtesy, boundless stories and passable cooking skills to your home..

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Poland, Romania, Russian Federation, Scotland, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, United States, Wales

Countries I’ve Lived In

United Kingdom