I've been using Couchsurfing for many years, and for me, it's a unique way to feel the pulse of the planet. I've traveled across America, Asia, and Europe, and I always strive to discover places through the hearts of locals, not just guidebooks.

By profession, I am the founder of the Shan Tea project in Moscow. Tea is my love, my business, and my greatest pleasure in life! I have my own tea room and school where I share this art. I also organize pop-up tea bars around the world, connecting different cultures over a single cup.

In Moscow, I also run an African braiding salon, where authentic hairstylists from Africa work. I love creating projects that bring people and traditions together.

I speak: Russian, English, and French.
Originally from: Moscow, but my heart and suitcase are always on the move.

My little co-pilot: I travel with my cheerful 2.5-year-old son, so I'm always happy to meet fellow traveling families or people who adore children!

I would be delighted to meet fellow world-lovers, treat you to some good tea, and exchange stories.

Interests

My Interests & Passions

My professional passions & crafts:
Tea culture and ceremonies, entrepreneurship, business psychology, African braids and dreadlocks, handicrafts (soap, candle making), journalism.

Art, creativity & exploration:
Philosophy, music, literature, photography, ethnic fashion, travel and discovering new places, mountains and hiking, festivals, visual arts (like modeling with clay).

What fuels my soul & the atmosphere I love:
Deep conversations and opposite thinking, genuine people (even the delightfully mad ones!), laughter and smiles, romanticism in everyday life, yoga and self-discovery, the cozy silence of empty hills and the energy of good gatherings (tusovochki), a cup of hot coffee or fine tea, authentic ethnic atmosphere.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

jump from a mountain

Teach, Learn, Share

What I can share with my hosts:

I always travel with a selection of fine teas from my collection and would be delighted to share a cup with you. I can tell you stories about Russia, or dive into the fascinating world of tea — from the mountains of China and Japan to the plantations of Africa.

Beyond tea, I'm happy to share various skills: I can teach you the proper way to brew tea, show you the basics of making soap or candles, or even share some secrets of braiding and dreadlocks.

Having traveled extensively, I love exchanging stories and can offer plenty of practical tips on how to travel smarter and deeper. And if you're interested, I can also provide friendly consultations on public relations or the psychology of family relationships.

Most of all, I'm open to a genuine cultural exchange — whether that means a deep conversation, learning something new from you, or just having a fun time together!

Countries I’ve Visited

Cambodia, China, Czech Republic, Egypt, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Kenya, Russian Federation, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United States, Vatican City State, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

India, Indonesia, Israel, Montenegro, Russian Federation