I come from a small but beautiful town in Pennsylvania. The locals there are kind, the weather is lovely and if rich smell of farmland doesn't bother you, it's a great place to live! I really enjoyed my job and spending time with family and friends. But something happened that changed my life forever, I went on a trip to Spain and decided to voluntarily teach English. Never before had I gone outside of my comfort zone like I did that week, and I was absolutely amazed with what I found. This was such a powerful experience that I decided to station myself overseas permanently. Not long after, I starting working as a software engineer for a humanitarian organization based in Dubai and later moved to The Hague. Here traveling has become a lifestyle, but I will never forget where it all began, with a short vacation to Spain.

I really enjoy photography and filmmaking. I have directed two short films in the past and continue to put a lot of effort into pictures while traveling; available at http://photos.austinweidler.com

I also love to create things (both digitally and tangibly). From building websites and graphics to 3D printing to making handbags, I am always looking for a new project!

And finally, I indulge in trying new things! Whether it be new foods, new treks, new dances, new places, and meeting new people!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

This is a community full of explorers, adventurers, and people who hold something special that cannot be found on a map. When I look back to all of my travels I may remember some of the beautiful scenery and breathtaking structures, but I will never forget those I have met. Who I have shared stories with, laughs with, meals with, cultures with, and adventures with. These are the times I capture in feelings, and these people unlock the moments where I don't just travel the world, but experience it. I am on Couchsurfing because these crossroads begin here.

Interests

• arts
• graphic design
• photography
• dancing
• swing dancing
• humanitarian relief
• running
• movies
• traveling
• music
• mountaineering
• teaching
• engineering
• software
• filmmaking
• food
• exploring
• programming
• meeting new people
• 3d printing
• building things

Music, Movies, and Books

I actually really like listening to film soundtracks. But of course I enjoy the usual pop and anything with a good beat as well.

I have way too many favorite movies to pick out one (or even a finite list), but I really like all of Christopher Nolan's films.

Books I really liked are Lord of the Flies and Animal Farm, but then again I can probably count on one hand how many books I have read in my life so my opinion here may be pretty biased.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

In February of 2019 I decided to go on an expedition to climb the highest mountain in South America, Mt. Aconcagua in Argentina. The climb took over two weeks to traverse the 6900m beast and is to this day the most challenging thing I have ever done. Our team faced intense snowstorms, extreme temperatures and splitting headaches. Each day trekking was brutal, but we kept telling ourselves: one step, one breath, one day at a time. Conquer challenges in small pieces and your feet will carry you above the sky.

Teach, Learn, Share

I am a certified TEFL English teacher, but I can also teach you how to design and build a website, or Swing Dance. I will also make you a good burger (you know, the classic American cuisine).

What I Can Share with Hosts

I will treat every host and place I stay with the utmost respect. I will assist with cleaning, cooking, and all other areas that are needed to keep the place in a perfect condition. I will share with every host some good stories and experiences, hopefully till which I will arrive as your guest, but leave as your friend.

Countries I’ve Visited

Argentina, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Belgium, Bhutan, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Iran, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Macao, Malta, Nepal, Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Panama, Peru, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uzbekistan, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United States