Why I’m on Couchsurfing

It didn't take me long to realize that my most enjoyable travel experiences were quite different from the experiences of most traditional vacationers and tourists (who wouldn't be be caught dead couchsurfing to begin with).

It started with my first time traveling solo for an extended, open-ended backpacking trip where I relied on hostels to try and cut down costs. Much more important than the dollars saved was the easily accessible community of fellow travelers to connect with. I enjoyed starting conversations that could lead to the sharing of personal stories or decisions to join together on a variety of adventures. That flexibility, spontaneity, is addicting, and it's hard to go back to itineraries where hotel rooms isolate you from meeting new people.

As means of traveling, Couchsurfing takes things further by allowing travelers to connect with locals in such a direct and intimate way. I think it's awesome that the network has built a community of vetted, selfless individuals who are willing to share their home and perspective of where they live. This mindset undoubtedly provides a unique experience for guests, and it is something that can be paid forward when they take off on their own adventures.

Interests

• photography
• music festivals
• education
• human rights
• wine
• beer
• cocktails
• meditation
• hiking
• camping
• whitewater rafting
• surfing
• scuba diving
• skydiving
• rock climbing
• sustainability
• design thinking
• nature conservation
• ux design
• financial literacy

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

A few years ago, I followed through with a promise to myself to obtain a skydiving license. After first checking skydiving off my "bucket list" with a local tandem jump a few years ago. Plenty of people go for the experience, get the video and pictures for social media, and then repeat it a few more times if they're lucky. I was so pumped after that first jump the only thing I could think of was how I was going to do it again without that other person strapped to my back. I didn't have anyone else crazy enough to pursue the license with me at the time, but with some planning, saving, and patience (weather conditions are a killer) I got to join a pretty cool club made up of some crazy adventurous individuals.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Bahamas, Canada, Costa Rica, Greece, Honduras, Jamaica, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates

Countries I’ve Lived In

South Africa, United States