Love life, love new experiences, new flavors, new friends. Laughing and sharing stories. Talking about life, hearing other people's perspectives. Dancing in every new city.

Language is like a secret portal into a new culture. You feel the different ways to express humor, affection, and yourself. It's a magical power, and that's why I always want to learn some of the language wherever I go, even if it's just a little. Currently I'm learning Spanish, and I've been trying to immerse myself in it since April 2020.

One random thing I really like to do whenever I visit a new city is take the bus or metro - I'm not sure why, I feel like it helps me feel the city's heartbeat and energy.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on CS to open my eyes to new people, traditions, languages, music, food, and philosophy. The people we meet are often at the center of our experiences and memories, so making authentic friendships and connections around the world is the best way to grow as a person.

When you visit a new city or country, it's very easy to stay at a hotel or hostel for the extra convenience and comfort. But I think the best way to feel a new place is to experience it through the eyes of a local, and help fellow travelers do the same when they visit my city!

Interests

• photography
• salsa dancing
• cooking
• nightlife
• dance music
• hiking
• snowboarding
• basketball
• travel
• frisbee
• bike repair

Music, Movies, and Books

Movie - Swing Kids. The scene with Benny Goodman's Sing Sing Sing (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YibBVIYwQWs) made me really want to learn to dance. The excitement you feel when you walk into a social is just like this scene!

So now 4 1/2 years after starting my journey with salsa, I still love it like day 1, and try to share it with everyone. So, I listen to a lot of latin music, mostly salsa and bachata. One amazing salsa song that I'm sure you'll love is Echale Madera, by DJ Ricky Campanelli. Give it a listen. :)

I watched the show La Niña to improve my Spanish, but ended up falling in love it. I highly recommend it.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I biked home 110 miles from UC Davis. The picture of me and my friend in helmets is from this trip.

The moment I decided to stay in Hanoi changed my life completely. I was at a salsa club social and I was having such an incredible time meeting new people and enjoying the city. I felt so alive. I spontaneously decided that I would "adjust" my trip, and when I came back to my hostel at 2 am, I woke up my travel buddy and told him that I wouldn't go on with the trip and stay in Hanoi instead.

Teach, Learn, Share

The more I meet or hear from different people, the more I realize that we're all the same.

What I Can Share with Hosts

In general, I love sharing my passions with hosts or travelers: my language and culture (Russian and English), photography, cooking, yoga, and of course, traveling stories! :D When I'm in a new city, I absolutely have to discover the local salsa scene, and I think it would be amazing if we discovered it together!

I also worked at a bike shop for 3 years in college, so I can help you fix your bike or give you tips. :)

Countries I’ve Visited

Cambodia, Canada, Czech Republic, England, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Russian Federation, Thailand

Countries I’ve Lived In

Russian Federation, United States, Viet Nam