Hey I’m Jackie, a graduate Architect spending the summer exploring Italy and Croatia before I settle in Berlin this August.

To some I’m loved and known as Jackie Chan, Nacho, JK, and Jack Jack. Each with their own weird and wonderful story.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

To slow down, connect with locals and be part of a community of likeminded people. I’d love to find some travel buddies too!

After a fun full on 2 week Contiki Tour through Eastern Europe I’ve realised that style of travelling hitting all the iconic tourist spots isn’t for me. I loved meeting and creating lifelong friends on the tour, which I’d love to do on CS but at a much slower pace and spending time in towns to learn more about the local culture and way of life.

Interests

Exploring cities and towns as the sun is setting, the lighting is beautiful! As a kiwi girl, I love being in nature. Going for day hikes in the hills, walks along beaches, morning runs around new places which I find is the best way to get my bearings

• dancing
• running
• drawing
• hiking
• having a laugh
• yoga and meditation
• reading and writing
• swimming in the sea

Music, Movies, and Books

I listen and love everything! Right now some artists I’m loving are Anderson Paak, Billie Eilish and the amazing woman that is Lizzo. Also pop ABBA on and I will channel my inner dancing queen.

I love a good Romcom and musicals, also enjoy documentaries and films based on true stories. It’s a big no thank you to scary movies for me.

When I’m reading it’s either a juicy novel, autobiography or self development book. Sometimes all three at once, and I flick between them. Standouts this year for me have been The Woman in the Window by Dan Mallory and Becoming by Michelle Obama.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

This may seem small, but for me it was huge! The courage to leave my family, friends, job and the wonderful city that is Wellington, NZ. Getting out of my comfort zone and moving to Germany! Which is where I’m heading this August after I explore Italy and Croatia.

Another highlight for me this year would be starting a weekly mediation group at my work. The best part is they’re continuing on with it now that I’ve left, that makes me so happy!

I’ve volunteered in Bali helping building toilets and paint murals at local schools. Was lucky enough while there to climb Mount Batur and see the sun rise!

What I Can Share with Hosts

Stories over food and a drink, a laugh, and usually something sweet! Friends are amazed at all the sweet treats I devour, lunch dessert is my fave.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, England, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovenia, Thailand, Tonga, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

New Zealand