I'm a 30-ish nurse who's a bit introverted, slightly over weight, doesn't do too well with heights, tech savvy, drinks but doesn't smoke and loves to go on adventures. Eating has always been my passion (can also cook but nothing fancy), but apart from that I love to travel and immerse myself in other cultures and secretly, despite being a bit introverted, I love meeting and talking to other people. Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, I grew up as the eldest son in a simple family of 6. Anime and playing RPGs shaped me into who I am I suppose. Thanks to Jennielyn, my girlfriend and partner-in-life for 6 years, I'm slowly going out of my shell and being less introverted. Together we have been to other countries such as Singapore, South Korea and Japan and it's quite the adventure. My hobbies include reading manga, watching anime and j-drama, learning how to cook and going on long walks. A kid at heart, I try not to take life too seriously and I value my family and friends a lot. I'm not realy the go-to-the-bar-and-party type and would rather have a long chat at home but then again I'm not a party pooper. I tend to over prepare sometimes because safety is very important to me but I love how exciting new adventures can be.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm quite interested in the opportuinity it brings to meet other people, make friends and immerse myself in their culture.

Interests

• cooking
• japanese food
• walking
• anime
• movies
• adventure
• manga
• conversation
• meeting new people
• making friends
• japanese culture

Music, Movies, and Books

I love to listen to songs by Utada Hikaru though not many know her. I'm not really the music type of person and would probably end up listenting to whatever it is on the radio. I do love Jazz and other classic songs and lately, thanks to Youtube I'm fond of covers. Song you'll find in my playlist includes First love, Kami-sama ga kureta hi, Daijobu, When God made you, Wonderful tonight, Can't take my eyes off you, Close to you, Beside you, Eyes on me, Hey soul sister, Marry me Keeper of the stars, L-O-V-E, Perfect two, So close, Unchaine melody, When you say nothing at all.

For movies and books, mystery and suspense are the top categories I often look for but that doesn't mean I shun away from what is trending. Marvel and DC movies are great for me because I grew up idolizing thise characters (I'm a big Batman fan). Other than english movies I also have been watching Japanese movies, admittedly with english subtitles. Last book I read I think was Inferno by Dan Brown but DaVinci Code was better.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Despite not doing too good with heights I was able to walk outside on the edge of a building that is 126.55 meters above the street with a harness. It was terrifying but the view was majestic.

I've been to Tokyo and Gotemba in Japan as well as Seoul in South Korea and Singapore the past couple of years and I loved how I got to plan my itinerary from scratch. Every travel is an adventure waiting to happen so here I am looking forward to more.

I've finally proposed to my beloved girlfriend, the scariest most heart-thumping part for me was asking the permission and blessing of her parents so I guess that's amazing.

Teach, Learn, Share

In the Philippines, "po" and "opo" is important because it's a more respectful version of "yes". Like most asian countries we respect our elders. Tipping is not really important here but it generally acceptable (but there is no need to tip if there is SC or servicr charge in your bill). Haggling is acceptable in small market but not in Malls. In Manila traffic is terrible and the rail system, albeit improved, isn't that great as well so if you plan to travel from city to city I suggest alloting an hour to 2 hours travel time. Crime rate may be going down but I still don't recommend roaming the streets at night. There are 2 seasons, Summer from March to May and Rainy (Floody in Metro Manila) from June to November. It's very hot here in months from March to May and better weather starts by September to February. Pack an umbrella regaddless. Internet/mobile data is slow compared with our neighbors and costs a lot so if you plan to go o walks, research before hand. If you have apps like City Maps2Go then that will be mostly all that you need. Filipinos are generally fond of parties, from little occasions such as birthdays to Christmas you'll find that we make it a point to celebrate any occasion as much as we can.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share in doing house chorse and minimal expenses I suppose.

Countries I’ve Visited

Japan, Singapore, South Korea

Countries I’ve Lived In

Philippines