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  • Last login almost 6 years ago

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Overview

  • 0 references
  • Fluent in English
  • 34, Female
  • Member since 2013
  • in between jobs
  • BSN
  • From Grand Rapids, MI, USA
  • Profile 100% complete

About Me

I’m currently on what I like to call a “sabbatical from adult life.” I worked in a rewarding but stressful 3rd-shift job at a homeless shelter for 3 years, and got to a point where I realized for my own health (physical, mental, emotional, etc.) I needed to step away. I was so sad to leave my patients, and I still love them, but it was important to work on caring for myself for a while.

Single with no kids, no job, and strong wanderlust, I figured this was the perfect time to go some places!

Since I left my job I’ve been to California, Puerto Rico, France, and Romania. I’m actually currently in Romania trying to figure out what to do next (definitely a couple weeks in Italy, then a couple weeks in Spain).

I’ve had my couch surfing account since 2013 but haven’t actually used it yet... which is silly because I really love when I get the opportunity to spend time with the local people of the places I’m visiting, and this would be a great way to have that experience!

When it comes to my travel style: I’m ashamed to admit it, but I’m not such a big museum person... I like wandering the streets looking at the architecture and street art, sitting in cafes, trying the local grub, going dancing (I love love love to dance). I don’t like trying to cram too much into a day. Maybe will plan a couple things but then go at a more relaxed pace and let things/experiences happen as they do. If I spend too much time in cities I get anxious/agitated by all the noise and people and need to get to some quiet space in nature (hiking in the woods is a fave). I love meeting new people, going on random adventures with them and/or partying (dancing? ;) ), but I also need to balance all that socialness out with adequate alone time. I’m a social introvert, which can be confusing at times haha. I usually stay in hostels and use public transportation or Lyft/Uber. I’m not comfortable renting a car because being a solo traveler with no partner/navigator, I’m sure I’d drive off a cliff or go the wrong way or something!

I’m easy going and easy to get along with.

Oh yeah...I don’t know how to cook and I only speak English. I feel sheepish about both of these things...

I’m not sure what else to say. Ask me anything!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I haven’t been couch surfing yet. I’ve just stayed in hostels which has been great for meeting fellow travelers, but very rarely has helped me meet people who are actually from the community. Couch surfing seems like a great opportunity to meet local people and have a more genuine experience in an area/culture that is new to me.

Interests

DANCING. I did ballet growing up and dabbled in belly dancing for a few years after college. I’ve slowly/randomly been learning a little more and more salsa over the years (merengue and bachata too). Got a chance to try it out in Puerto Rico which was awesome! While I’ve been in Romania I’ve gotten to try some Romania dances too which has also been an amazing experience. But really what I love most is going out with friends, having a few drinks, and then shaking it on the dance floor.

THE OUTDOORS. nothing too extreme. I love camping, kayaking, and hiking. even just being outside not doing anything--like lounging in my hammock or taking a nap on a blanket. I’m not such a great swimmer, but I do like going to the beach and jumping around in the waves.

  • dancing
  • walking
  • pub crawls
  • traveling
  • hiking
  • kayaking
  • camping

Music, Movies, and Books

Music you can move your hips to is my favorite!

I do like to read but I don’t do it enough... I’m not above trashy romance novels ;)

Movies: Jurassic Park, Mask of Zorrow, Count of Monte Cristo to name just a few

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I recently went skydiving in Puerto Rico...does that count as “amazing”?

Teach, Learn, Share

Of course I always love learning new dances.

Learning to sail would be a dream.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I wish I could think of more, but I think all I can offer is friendly company...

Eventually when I have my own place again I of course would be a happy host in return.

Countries I’ve Visited

Dominican Republic, France, Iceland, Ireland, Panama, Romania, Trinidad and Tobago

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States

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