I'm a PhD researcher on cities, refugees and human rights at Utrecht University, but located and teaching part-time in UCR, Middelburg (Netherlands).

I'm Turkish, was born in Leipzig, Germany and grew up in Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Turkey and Germany again - as my parents were Turkish diplomats.

I travel a lot due to my work as a researcher, and though I'm comfortable with all the solo-travelling, my social and extroverted side is stronger and I believe that meeting interesting people and making local friends makes travel just exponentially better.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I've heard about Couchsurfing a lot and was always interested. But I must admit hat with the influence of my overly-cautious family teachings I never joined until now. Now slightly older, bolder and wiser I see the value of being even more open when traveling or hosting.

Life is short and travel can be lonely.

Interests

• dancing
• cooking
• board games
• music
• cycling
• hiking
• rowing
• nature

Music, Movies, and Books

Ooh this is a tricky question.

In terms of music, I like Motown, blues, jazz, classical (except Mozart), rock classics from 60s-90s, some alternative English and Turkish music, and the occasional guilty pleasure.

I love making music with others and singing in harmony.

Movies: Most movies with Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Johnny Depp, Anthony Hopkins or Meryl Streep in them.

Books: Biographies, Fantasy, Distopian or Historical Novels

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Being uprooted from my comfortable environment and placed in unfamiliar ones many times; and making a new home, new family-friends and redefining myself every time.

Teach, Learn, Share

But there is so much to be shared!

I would love to practice my French with natives, learn a bit of Spanish or some new things on the guitar. I would also love to hear and learn about different cultures, life stories, families etc.

I can teach a bit of Turkish, German, even bits of Dutch, share tips and info on the best of Middelburg and Zeeland, talk about world and Turkish politics, international law, different cultures, how to travel on a budget in Europe.

I also love playing board games and cooking with people whose company I enjoy!

What I Can Share with Hosts

Many ridiculous stories, Turkish culture and politics, all about my work in international law and human rights, a self-cooked meal (if I have time), a partner in board games and my openness.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, England, France, Italy, Scotland, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Germany, Netherlands, Turkey