Hi there! I’m Elena, 27, originally from Bulgaria, currently living in downtown Sofia.

I work in PR and Communications, but my side hustle is human rights and grassroots democracy. My academic path has taken me across Europe - I studied Media and Entertainment Management in the Netherlands and Visual Design in Finland, and recently completed my Master’s in Digital Leadership (yay!). I’ve spent 6 years living abroad, which got me used to meeting people from different backgrounds and picking up bits of their culture along the way.

I love discovering new places through their people, food, history, and art, and I’m quite nerdy to learn about local traditions. I’m equally happy wandering through nature or getting lost in a museum. I’m also into languages and occasionally fall into philosophical conversations.

I’m quite talkative and generally easygoing: I love a good laugh and generally getting to know people beyond small talk. I’m a bit of a coffee snob (no judgment toward your preferences though), a passionate foodie, and I love cooking - recently I’ve been getting into designing charcuterie boards. I’ve also been getting into chess and fencing - basically a mixed athlete, since I’m not that good at either.

I live with my cat Muffi, a rescue from Ukraine - he’s busy being lazy and overfed, I just pay the rent.

Overall, I’d say I’m curious, open to new experiences, and enjoy connecting with people and sharing everyday moments, but I'd still respect your space and routine.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elena.nikolova.186/

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

The best part of traveling is the conversations, shared meals, and the small everyday moments you don’t find in a guidebook - especially since I often travel solo.

I’ve known about the platform for quite a while, but only recently got the chance to start hosting, so I decided to finally join in properly. I also think travel should be more accessible - sometimes platforms like Airbnb/Booking can be tricky, and prices can be out of reach, especially for people traveling on a budget.

Interests

• animals
• arts
• wine
• coffee
• politics
• hiking
• sports
• history
• budget travel
• food
• travelling

Music, Movies, and Books

Movies: I’m more into series, but the LOTR and Harry Potter universes will always be my happy place. Currently obsessed with The Hunger Games.

Series: Mad Men (all-time favorite), Breaking Bad (although Better Call Saul might actually be better), Ozark. The Office is my comfort show.

Books: Currently in my Dostoevsky era, but I’ve recently gotten into Fredrik Backman’s books as well. I also love French classical literature.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I became a Youth Delegate in respect of Bulgaria to the Council of Europe for the 2026 - 2027 mandate!

Teach, Learn, Share

I can tell you all about Bulgarian culture, history, and politics if you’re curious. I also like cooking traditional Bulgarian food and can help you figure out what to see and do if you’re planning a trip here - plus share some do’s, don’ts, and random things I’ve picked up from my own travels around the globe.

I can also teach you a few words in Bulgarian :) And if you need it, I’m always happy to help you improve your LinkedIn profile.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I’m happy to share perspectives, stories, and opinions on pretty much anything. Also always up for sharing food, coffee, time, or just good conversation - whatever keeps the vibe easy and enjoyable :)

Countries I’ve Visited

Armenia, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, England, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Seychelles, Tunisia, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Bulgaria, Finland, Netherlands