ABOUT ME

I'm Ashley from Texas, but I live in the Netherlands. I am open minded, curious, somewhat adventurous with a thirst for knowledge and new experiences. A big enjoyment for me is getting to know people from different walks of life, and learning more about the human experience - especially when food, drinks and/or time outside is involved. I love to read and write, and I spend a lot of time doing both. My deepest passions are in the social sciences and global issues, and I'm currently working toward my Master's in human geography and migration. My heart swoons for everything that has to do with the natural world - animals, plants, birds, mountains, the ocean, climate and weather. I try to always come from a place free of judgement. This makes me a very tolerant person except, ironically, for people who are highly intolerant and/or judgmental. Otherwise, I consider myself open to new ideas and perspectives, easy to get along with and always on the lookout for a good time with good people :)

PHILOSOPHY

"I am because we are." - love the message of Ubuntu philosophy

Always keep an open mind. Try not to judge others. Come as often as possible from a place of understanding. Never stop learning. Read. Listen. Take risks and be vulnerable. Discover and indulge in your passions, but also seek to find fulfillment in the most mundane folds of life. Don't be afraid to contemplate the spiritual, but also don't stop asking questions. You are who you choose to be.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

To connect with new people around the world, and be part of a community of travelers :)

Interests

Writing, reading, hiking, camping, traveling, bird watching, beer and wine, going out with friends, documentaries, urban gardening, spirituality, social sciences, migration, music, philosophy, culture, puzzles, geocaching, TED talks, sushi, trying new foods, animals, the great outdoors

Music, Movies, and Books

Books- I'm usually reading several books at once, mostly non-fiction. Really enjoying right now Evicted by Matthew Desmond and I Was Told to Come Alone by Souad Mekhennet. Latest favorite is Hillbilly Elegy.

Music - Acoustic, Indie and World

Movies - all time favorite is Big Fish

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

We can swap stories on this!

Teach, Learn, Share

I love cultural exchange and would love to share what I know about life in my corner of the world in exchange for learning about life in your corner.

If you are looking for someone who likes to engage in long talks about social issues, international politics, culture, philosophy, spirituality, etc... look no further. This much I can offer for sure; I don't shy away from difficult subjects and love to dive right in - avoid the small talk :)

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can make food! Maybe some Texas tacos?

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Cambodia, France, Germany, Italy, Laos, Luxembourg, Mexico, Nepal, Netherlands, Portugal, Switzerland, Thailand, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Nepal, Netherlands, United States