Hi, it's Dara, now I'm a master student in European Studies at Universiti Malasia. And I'm from Anhui, China (near Shanghai). I love exploring new cultures and making connections with people wherever I go. Whether it’s sharing travel stories, learning new things, or cooking a meal together, I’m always up for a fun and meaningful exchange. One of my best experiences was a solo backpacking trip across Southeast Asia, where I made lifelong friends and learned so much about resilience and kindness. Let’s connect and create some unforgettable memories!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I joined Couchsurfing because I believe that travel is about much more than just seeing new places—it's about connecting with people and immersing myself in different cultures. There’s something special about staying with locals, learning from them, and seeing the world through their eyes. I love the idea of building friendships with people from all over the globe, sharing stories, and experiencing life the way they do. Couchsurfing allows me to step outside the typical tourist experience and dive into authentic, meaningful interactions.

Interests

I’m passionate about traveling and hiking, exploexploring nature, especially music is a foodie, so whether it's cooking a new recipe or trying out street food, I’m always excited to explore different flavors. Finally, I’m interested in learning more about history, art, and different languages, and I’m always eager to have a meaningful conversation or exchange ideas with people from diverse backgrounds.

• photography
• cooking
• traveling
• music
• hiking

Music, Movies, and Books

I love music that tells a story and sparks curiosity. From classic rock like Queen and The Rolling Stones to more modern indie bands like Tame Impala and The Strokes, I enjoy discovering new genres while traveling. I’m also into world music—nothing beats listening to traditional instruments in different countries, and I've picked up some local rhythms along the way. Bonus points if you can introduce me to a new artist or jam session!

Movies are a window to different worlds! I'm a fan of directors like Quentin Tarantino and Wes Anderson for their quirky style, but I also appreciate documentaries that explore social issues and the human spirit, like "The Last Dance" or "Honeyland." One of my favorite things is finding hidden gems on Netflix or watching foreign films to dive into another culture’s perspective.

My bookshelf is filled with a mix of genres! I enjoy adventure stories like "Into the Wild" and thought-provoking works like George Orwell’s "1984". I also like to read travel memoirs, which inspire my own trips. Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" is one of those books that really speaks to the dreamer in me. I’m always open to book swaps with fellow travelers!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the most amazing things I’ve done is embark on a spontaneous solo backpacking journey across Southeast Asia. With nothing but a small backpack and an open mind, I traveled through five countries, immersing myself in diverse cultures, making friends along the way, and learning to navigate new environments without a strict plan. I couchsurfed with incredible hosts who shared their stories, and I even got the chance to help a family in Cambodia rebuild their small restaurant after a flood. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and left me with lifelong memories and friendships.

Teach, Learn, Share

I love sharing stories from my travels, especially the quirky moments and lessons learned along the way. I’m also pretty good at cooking some delicious dishes from my country and would be happy to teach you how to make them! If you’re interested in languages, I can teach you the basics of Chinese. Plus, I have a few fun travel hacks that I’ve picked up over the years.

I’m always up for learning new skills or deepening my understanding of different cultures. I’d love to learn more about local traditions, languages, or even some simple recipes from your country. I’m also curious about different philosophies or any fun activities you’re passionate about, from surfing to photography!

What I Can Share with Hosts

I’d love to share my travel stories, personal experiences, and tips on backpacking solo. I can also share my love for music and movies, as well as exchange playlists or recommendations. If you’re up for it, we can swap books or teach each other new things, whether it's cooking, photography, or exploring hidden spots in the city!

Countries I’ve Visited

Cambodia, Canada, China, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

China, Malaysia, United States