CURRENT MISSION

I am writing a book about how the science of happiness can be used to create cities of joy around the world.

ABOUT ME

I'm a journalist, a mountain climber, a bike commuter, and a very curious person. I share most adventures with my partner, Omar. I once wrote a book about magic and ghosts in the South Pacific, called The Last Heathen, or The Shark God. I have been changed by my journeys--not just the mystical experiences in places of incredible beauty, but also by the spirit and wisdom of the people I have met.

PHILOSOPHY

I believe we give our lives meaning by telling stories.
And we make our lives matter by helping and sharing joy with other people.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I own part of a house in Vancouver, Canada, and the roomies (5 of us) agreed to host couchsurfers a few times a year. We had our first surfers in the summer of 2009, and it was easy and fun. In sept, 2009 I went to europe with my partner, Omar. I am researching a book about cities and happiness. Omar is going to shoot video of happy urban places!

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

My most powerful experiences were not on couches, but on grass matt floors, in Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. I'd show up in a boat or canoe, and strangers would share what little they had with me. That's where I first learned that a stranger seeking shelter can be like a gift. It gives you a chance to be generous.

Interests

Cities. Climbing. Science of happiness. Public space. Beer. Urban biking. Backcountry skiing. Talking. Learning.

• writing
• books
• beauty
• beer
• boating
• magic
• cycling
• canoeing
• skiing
• rock climbing
• journalism
• science

Music, Movies, and Books

K'naan
Gladwell
Octavio Paz
Chatwin

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Sharing a meal after a long journey. Riding Velib in Paris with my dear Omar. And of course, the World Naked Bike ride in Portland!

Teach, Learn, Share

Journalism
Basic rockclimbing

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