I am a collector of experiences. I moved to Germany last year to do my PhD in biology, and since then I've had the opportunity to visit a few new countries. It's been great! I never thought I would be able to see so many places - and there's still so much more to explore! Although my studies keep me busy, I try to get outside to explore as much as possible. I prefer nature to cities, but I do like to take the opportunity to go strolling along any unknown city streets. Oh, and beer. I love to try new beers. No paucity of those around here :) I also love cooking, and am happy to get into the kitchen.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing has made my experience in a new city so much richer every time I've had the opportunity to travel. The chance to get insider information is always appreciated! I have also had the chance to host some wonderful people around the globe. It's really changed the way I think about travel. Stuffy hotel rooms are just not the same as meeting new people. Hostels are great fun, but I still think the opportunities that come up from couchsurfing make it the best way to travel.

Interests

Spending time outdoors is always a win.

I put trail running as an interest, but I feel like a dirty liar because I have not found a place to do that since I left Canada.

Actually, I have found that living in Kiel has made it very hard to do much outside, so have taken up weightlifting at my local gym - I've got to say, I really like lifting heavy things! Kind of unexpected, but there ya go.

• cooking
• beer
• running
• hiking
• kayaking
• camping
• trail running
• rock climbing
• healthy eating
• weightlifting
• unhealthy eating

Music, Movies, and Books

Kurt Vonnegut is a favourite author of mine, and I thoroughly enjoyed "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris. 1Q84 from Murakami also comes to mind as a favourite.

I would jump at the chance to see Florence and the Machine or The Red Hot Chilli Peppers live, but my music interests are quite varied. Ben Caplan is also great - you should check him out.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Hiking alone in the Pyrenees. It was only a day trip, but I never knew I could have so much fun alone.

What I Can Share with Hosts

It's always nice to cook together and share a meal.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Canada, Denmark, England, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Spain, Switzerland, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, Germany