Hello, fellow Couchsurfers!

My name is Berkay Avcı. Currently, I'm pursuing my Electrical and Electronics Engineering degree at Altınbaş University in the vibrant city of Istanbul, but I was born and raised in the picturesque Eskişehir. My two main passions in life are traveling and trying traditional cuisines from around the world.

I'm an avid explorer and a student of life, always keen to learn, grow and experience new things. Summer is my favourite season, and the sun is my constant companion on all my adventures. My preferred mode of travel is to immerse myself in the local culture and truly experience the places I visit, rather than indulging in luxury.

I have a keen interest in food, specifically traditional dishes from around the world. If there's a special dish your area is known for, I'd love to try it! I believe that food is a universal language that can connect people, and I'm always eager to broaden my culinary horizons.

As a student, I have to be mindful of my budget, but I believe the most precious things in life aren't things at all—they're experiences. Therefore, I prefer to spend my money on creating memories rather than accumulating material possessions.

While I can appreciate the comforts of a nice hotel, I am here on Couchsurfing because I want to connect with locals and fellow travelers, to share stories, and to gain insights that can't be found in guidebooks. I believe that the essence of traveling is not just about visiting different places, but rather about experiencing different cultures, traditions, and perspectives.

I am excited to embark on this journey and look forward to connecting with fellow Couchsurfers who are as passionate about travel and cultural exchange as I am. So, if you have a couch to share, some local insights, or you simply want to meet up for a coffee or a meal, feel free to reach out. Let's make some unforgettable memories together!

Safe travels,
Berkay

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

While I love discovering new places and sampling local cuisine, for me, the real magic of travel lies in the connections we make along the way. Couchsurfing offers a unique opportunity to do just that.

I'm on Couchsurfing because I want to go beyond being a mere tourist, to really connect with the people and places I visit. I believe in a world where people from diverse backgrounds can come together, share stories, and learn from one another, fostering understanding and friendship across borders.

Couchsurfing also allows me to travel in a budget-friendly manner. As a student, I don't have an unlimited budget for accommodations, but I've found that the richest travel experiences often don't come from luxury hotels or resorts. Instead, they come from the meaningful interactions with local people, shared meals, and unforgettable conversations.

Lastly, I am here to give back to this wonderful community. When I'm not on the road, I look forward to welcoming fellow Couchsurfers to Istanbul, sharing local insights and offering a friendly place to rest for fellow travelers.

So, whether you have a couch to share, want to meet up for a local meal or simply want to chat and exchange travel stories, I would be thrilled to connect. Let's explore the world together, one couch at a time.

Looking forward to our paths crossing,

Berkay

Interests

• outdoor activities
• engineering
• budget travel
• travelling
• adventure
• exploration
• cultural exchange
• community building
• local traditions
• sustainable tourism
• student life
• food & culinary exploration
• summer adventures
• experience over materialism

Music, Movies, and Books

Books:
I am a fan of a diverse range of literature. I enjoy the gripping storytelling of Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code", and the insight into the human condition offered by Albert Camus's "The Stranger". For a touch of philosophy and a fascinating perspective on life, I appreciate the brilliance of "Sophie's World" by Jostein Gaarder. And of course, the adventures in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" series never cease to captivate my imagination.

Music:
When it comes to music, my tastes are eclectic. I find the tranquillity in classical music, with Beethoven's symphonies often playing in the background while I study. I enjoy the energetic beats of pop music, with artists like Dua Lipa and Billie Eilish featuring prominently in my playlists. I also appreciate traditional Turkish music, which helps me stay connected to my roots.

Films:
I'm an avid movie enthusiast, and I enjoy a wide range of genres. Christopher Nolan's mind-bending films like "Inception" and "Interstellar" are among my favorites for their innovative storytelling. I also appreciate the timeless charm of classics like "The Godfather". For a lighter mood, the witty humor in the "Guardians of the Galaxy" always brings a smile to my face. And of course, I have a soft spot for Turkish cinema, with "Dedemin İnsanları" being one of my all-time favorites for its heartwarming tale of family and heritage.

I'm always open to recommendations for new books, music, and films. So, if you have a favorite you'd like to share, I'd love to hear about it!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Waking up and taking a breath every morning is the most amazing thing I have done and anyone can do.

If someone offered you a billion dollars would you accept it?
But you won't wake up tomorrow.

I think you wouldn't. So waking up in the morning. Taking a coffee break. Smelling the air. This is the most expensive experience you can ever live. And other amazing things happen very often too. Important thing is to catch them. See and recognize.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Some other amazing memories. Have no idea. I am a suitable person.

Countries I’ve Visited

Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Russian Federation, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Turkey