Hello! My name is Dave. I was born and raised an hour and a half outside of New York City in rural New Jersey, spent four years studying near the ocean among the redwoods in northern California, and have lived in beautiful Savannah, Georgia for the last two and a half years. I'm a very passionate person and do what I can to enjoy life because why not?

I am currently out traveling for as long as I can manage and I am looking at it as so much more than a fun vacation; it is me pushing myself to experience as much as possible and make photographs that show what I see. I also want to see and experience new wildlife (especially bird species!), landscapes, food, cultures, and so much more.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

It is a great experience to meet and connect with travelers like myself in hostels but it also makes experiencing every beautiful place you visit much more difficult. Travelers don't know the secret special spots where the best food, hikes, music, experiences and so much more are but the people who live there do. Couchsurfing allows travelers who are looking for a deeper experience to meet those locals who want to share what makes their homes special. I'm pretty sure people who host travelers are some of the most kind and interesting people you will meet.

I've always lived in or near rural areas and so another reason I'm on Couchsurfing is to find places to stay that are closer to nature. It's exhausting to constantly be a tourist in loud and busy cities every day when you love nature as much as I do.

Interests

I have been a photographer for 9 years and photograph whatever I find interesting (everything) but mostly wildlife, landscapes, people, and events. If you're interested in more of my photography, please check out my website at www.davespangenburg.com and let me know what you think - thanks!

If you told me nine years ago that I would one day be an obsessed birdwatcher I probably would have laughed. Every where I go for the rest of my life there will be new birds to find or old birds to say hello to again. I'm interested in all animals and have spent my entire life studying them. Any time I spend in nature is time well spent.

While those are my two biggest passions, I also am very interested in culture, history, riding bikes, good food+coffee+alcohol, peoplewatching, movies, TV, and just about everything else. Life is pretty interesting.

• animals
• wildlife
• birds
• culture
• photography
• coffee
• walking
• movies
• eating out
• juggling
• music
• live music
• hiking
• camping
• snorkeling
• cliff jumping
• teaching
• geography
• history
• ornithology
• tourism
• urban exploration
• nature
• tea
• laughing
• biking
• exploring
• ultimate frisbee
• meeting new people
• birdwatching
• novelty

Music, Movies, and Books

Music has always meant a lot to me and I've spent much of the last fifteen years attending live shows. My taste in music varies and pretty much, as long as you're doing what you love and you do it well I will likely enjoy it on some level. I enjoy taking photos of live performances and love the idea of seeing music wherever I travel.

I love all types of movies and wouldn't say I'm very picky about watching them as long as they're done well.

My favorite books are Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig and The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo. Both books have impacted me on a deep level as they're always on my mind and influencing the way I see the world. I also really enjoy anything by Chuck Palahniuk. I love listening to audiobooks especially while driving as it lets my imagination run wild.

Teach, Learn, Share

If you've ever wanted to know anything about wildlife, I can help out with that. Ever want to learn how to juggle? I've taught at least fifteen different people. Are you a photographer, need help working on your skills, or like having your photo taken? I would love to see your photos and if you want, I'll show you mine. Teaching and learning from others is something I'm always looking for.

What I Can Share with Hosts

My enthusiasm for life and adventure! I think I'm a pretty fun person to be around with a lot to share and can be entertained by doing just about anything.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, Spain, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Costa Rica, United States