It's always difficult thinking of things to say in these "about me" sections. They always end up feeling more like lists of interests and hobbies, with some schooling and work history thrown in. I can't say this will be any different. I went to school for English Literature and Film, and I have a voracious interest in both. I also enjoy binging on video games (strategy and rpg; if combined, even better) and television (live-action and animated).

On another note, despite being an immense nerd I like to get out. Travelling has always been a major interest of mine, and while I have travelled around a bit I've been feeling starved of it lately. Hiking and camping are great as well, but the company is important. Whiners can ruin it. People who've been in those situations will know what I mean.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm here because I love the opportunities a website like this can provide. You can't really ingrain yourself in a place and culture without this sort of service; especially if your goal is immersion.

If you break it down; hostels are cheap and convenient, Airbnb provides variety and a sense of home, hotels are comfortable and reliable. Couchsurfing, and other groups like it, can be defined as enlightening and and interesting. It's the only one of those options that provides an experience not associated somehow with cost and return. Of course that's because it's a free service, but that gap left by money is meant to be filled with cultural exchange and companionship for like-minds (or even those of different but open minds, in fact that's kind of the point).

So I guess that's why I use this website, because exchange of the intellectual sort (with a bed on the side) is infinitely superior to the monetary one.

Interests

Figured I'd end up listing my interests in another section anyway. At least now I can just put them all in point form and get away with it.

- Film/Television
- Novels
- Anime
- Video Games
- Travel
- Hiking/Camping
- Writing

• culture
• writing
• literature
• breakfast
• anime
• video games
• traveling
• hiking
• camping
• history

Music, Movies, and Books

I can't really list my favourite books and movies. They change based on the day, my mood throughout the day, what I'm thinking about at any given time, how recently I've watched/read something, etc. I can tell you I prefer classic action/adventure novels, though I'll read fantasy for its escapism, and sci-fi for its ability to make you think.

As for music, I listen to electronic (generally house and its many branches), classic/modern rock and acoustic. Deadmau5, Led Zeppelin, and Iron and Wine are examples from each category that I really enjoy.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I hitch-hiked and couch-surfed (mostly) my way from Amsterdam to Istanbul. It was an eye-opening experience, and something I've been wanting to embark on again for quite some time now.

Teach, Learn, Share

I can teach you a lot about Film or Television. English lit knowledge isn't as high in demand but if you're interested I can teach a bit about that too. I'd also be willing to do what I can to help someone learn English.

I'll be in Japan for quite a while, so if you're willing to teach me some Japanese I'm sure that would help with the lessons I'll be taking. I'm also very interested in foreign film, so if you think you've seen something good that I've missed, I really do want to know. Please tell me about it.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I've made pancakes for hosts in the past. It's fairly popular for breakfast in Canada. If you're up for them I'd be more than happy to make some. Apparently mine are quite good. Maple syrup is also a necessity, so hopefully I have some or I can find some for a reasonable price wherever I happen to be.

Countries I’ve Visited

Albania, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, Croatia, Cuba, Germany, Greece, Japan, Montenegro, Netherlands, Slovenia, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada