Hello! I am Haniya, a 20-year-old student (rising sophomore) at Augustana College in Illinois, and I am excited to connect with new people through Couchsurfing.

I am really looking forward to meeting new people, making meaningful connections, and creating wonderful memories through Couchsurfing. Let us make our paths cross and share some unforgettable experiences together!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I joined Couchsurfing because I believe that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it is about connecting with people and experiencing life from different perspectives. Staying with locals offers a unique opportunity to learn about their culture, traditions, and daily lives in a way that no guidebook can provide.

I love the idea of cultural exchange and building friendships across the globe. Meeting people from different backgrounds enriches my understanding of the world and broadens my horizons. Couchsurfing allows me to step out of my comfort zone and dive into authentic experiences that I might not find otherwise.

Moreover, as a student, I am always looking for ways to travel on a budget. Couchsurfing makes it possible to explore new destinations without the high cost of accommodation, while also ensuring that I have a more genuine and personal experience. I am eager to share my own culture and stories with my hosts, and to learn from theirs in return.

In essence, I am on Couchsurfing to make meaningful connections, exchange knowledge, and create memories that last a lifetime. I am excited to be part of this vibrant community of travelers and hosts, and I look forward to the adventures and friendships that lie ahead.

Interests

I love different kinds of music and different kinds of food and meeting people of course! Extremely extroverted! :)

• photography
• coding
• music
• food
• videography
• makeup

Music, Movies, and Books

I am always excited to discover new music, movies, and books.

I enjoy a wide range of music, from soulful and uplifting melodies to heartfelt and traditional tunes from various cultures.

When it comes to movies, I appreciate both classics and contemporary films, especially those with creative storytelling, humor, and magical elements.

Reading is one of my greatest passions. I love books that offer profound insights, thought-provoking narratives, and emotional depth, as well as non-fiction that provides a deeper understanding of history and culture.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the most amazing experiences I have had was traveling to the Skardu and Gilgit mountain ranges in Pakistan, nestled amidst the mighty Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindukush ranges. The breathtaking landscapes, with towering peaks, rivers, glaciers and serene valleys, left me in awe. A highlight of the trip was visiting the Deosai Plains, the highest plateau in the world after Tibet, nestled between the Karakoram and Himalaya ranges. The vast, unspoiled beauty of this unique area was absolutely stunning. Hiking through this majestic region and witnessing the natural beauty up close was truly unforgettable.

I also had the opportunity to explore the ancient remains and heritage of Taxila, an archaeological treasure trove situated at the crossroads of the Himalayas and the plains of the Punjab region. Walking through the ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, I was transported back in time, marveling at the remnants of ancient civilizations that once thrived in this historic region. From the grand Buddhist monasteries to the intricate Greco-Roman architecture, every corner of Taxila spoke volumes about its rich cultural heritage and significance in shaping the course of history. It was a profound experience delving into the past and gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse tapestry of civilizations that have left their mark on this remarkable land.

Out of the amazing things I have done, exploring the Khewra Salt Range in Pakistan stands out. Discovered by Alexander the Great's troops in ancient times, possibly through the licking of their horses, the Khewra Salt Mine is one of the world's oldest and largest. Descending into its depths and walking upon its seven layers of salt floors, I was struck by the stunning formations adorning the walls. Beyond its commercial significance, this mine holds cultural and historical importance, offering a glimpse into human ingenuity and industry spanning centuries.

Another incredible adventure was visiting the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. The unique rock formations and the dramatic coastal scenery were mesmerizing. Walking along the rugged coastline and exploring this natural wonder was an experience I'll always cherish.

Teach, Learn, Share

Here is a bit about what I can offer, what I am eager to learn, and what I am happy to share:

I come from a diverse cultural background, and I love sharing insights about my heritage, traditions, and the delicious recipes I have learned from my family. If you are interested in cooking, I would be delighted to teach you how to make some traditional dishes from my culture. Additionally, I am fluent in both English and my native language, and I would be happy to help with language learning or practice. Whether it is basic conversational skills or diving into grammar, I am here to assist!

I believe that learning never stops, and traveling is one of the best ways to gain new knowledge. I am keen to learn about your city, its history, and any hidden gems that locals love. I am also interested in learning new recipes, so if you have a favorite dish or a family recipe, I would love to learn how to make it. Furthermore, I am always open to picking up new skills, whether it is playing a musical instrument, a new sport, or any unique hobby you might have.

I love storytelling and sharing experiences. Whether it is about my travels, the adventures I have had during my college years, or the fascinating people I have met along the way, I am always up for a good conversation. I am also an avid reader and can share recommendations on some of my favorite books and authors. Moreover, I am passionate about my interest in photography and music.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I am excited to share various aspects of my life and experiences with my hosts. Coming from a diverse cultural background, I can offer insights into my heritage, traditions, and stories that highlight the richness of my culture.

As a college student, I can share my experiences from campus life, interesting courses, and the unique perspectives I have gained through my studies and interactions with fellow students.

My travels have taken me to some stunning places with breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural sites. I would love to share stories and tips from these adventures, as well as hear about your own travel experiences.

Lastly, I am passionate about cooking and enjoy preparing traditional dishes from my culture. I would be delighted to cook a meal for you or teach you how to make some of my favorite recipes.

I look forward to exchanging stories, learning from each other, and creating wonderful memories together!

Countries I’ve Visited

England, Northern Ireland, Pakistan, Qatar, Scotland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Wales

Countries I’ve Lived In

Pakistan, United Kingdom, United States