Im Merel an inside out Oreo. I am Dutch as well as being Kenyan, although that side is not immediately visible. I grew up in Kenya and moved to the Netherlands to study. I have always had a very diverse group of friends which makes me open to all different kinds of people.

I am passionate about the use and design of public spaces and the environmental quality of cities. Each place i visit i like to soak up the ambiance and see how the place works.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us (Spissky Hrad).

I really like this quote. I love to travel, meet new people an immerse myself in a new culture. I feel that when you travel you open yourself up to new experiences which you learn alot from, create wonderful memories as well as cherish the place we come from more. Diversity is fascinating. I like exploring places with tips from locals so you can see the real side of a city.

- I am a beginner in couchsurfing but hope to have good first experiences

Interests

I love meeting new people and travelling. In addition i love making music with my band, movies and curling up with a good book. Food. Definately food, cooking and eating are great hobbies. As well as good special beer, especially Belgian beers are a favorite of my housemates and I.

• culture
• books
• design
• dining
• cooking
• beer
• movies
• traveling
• music

Music, Movies, and Books

The hitch hickers guide to the galaxy. Music too many genres to mention, current favorites are funk-rock, jazz, r'n'b and soul.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Played with a rescued cheeta :)

What I Can Share with Hosts

Making chai (Indian-Kenyan milk tea with masala spices). Cooking diverse dishes from Kenyan, Indian, Dutch, thai etc.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Cambodia, Congo, Curaçao, Egypt, France, Italy, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Thailand, Uganda

Countries I’ve Lived In

Kenya, Netherlands