I am adventure and experience driven. I am deeply rooted in food and beverage culture - having held positions as Pastry Chef, Sommelier, Catering and Events Manager, and working very hard in the Tea community.

My passion is to see new places and learn about different cultures. I road trip it as often as possible, and am gearing up to take my almost 2 year old daughter Charlotte on her first cross-country road trip this October...pause to say little prayer.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I usually stay in hostels when I travel because I appreciate meeting other travelers and do not wish to spend ample funds on a hotel that I don't plan to spend much of my visit in.

After a homestay in Okinawa, Japan for 2 weeks, I've decided that couchsurfing may be a great way to still have the benefits of hostel living while also making friends who are living in the areas I am visiting. It's such a wonderful way to connect with people, and I've always been so fortunate to stay with open minded and vibrantly interesting people.

I hope to contribute as much as possible wherever I stay- whether thats good conversation, helping to cook and clean, I'm up for it!

Interests

I enjoy seeing the sites in the places I visit, however I care more about really getting to know what the community is all about. What Chef or culinary team does this city celebrate? Where's that great hole in the wall bar? What secret gem isn't on the tourist must see list?

• arts
• fashion
• dining
• wine
• beer
• cocktails
• music
• outdoor activities
• business
• food
• meeting people

Music, Movies, and Books

Movies: Gangs of New York, The Killing of John Lennon, Breakfast at Tiffanys, The First Wives Club, What Dreams May Come, The Departed

Music: The Knife, RJD2, Purity Ring, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Sylvan Esso, MisterWives, Eddie Vedder, Talking Heads, Stone Temple Pilots, Flight Facilities, Smashing Pumpkins, The Animals

Books: Zen and Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Until We are Free, Food Lover's Companion, The Wine Bible, The Complete Joy of Hombrewing, This is your Brain on Music

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Climbed a bit of Mt. Fuji- I never thought I'd have the opportunity to visit Japan twice. It was extremely rewarding.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I am willing to cook, clean, and participate in great conversation. :)

Countries I’ve Visited

Argentina, Canada, Chile, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States