Hello! My name is Niamh (pronounced "Niv"). I'm 25 years old and was born, raised and currently living in Ireland. I'm a recent art school graduate and as such, I love all things creative and artistic. One of my favorite things to do when traveling is check out the galleries and museums in the country I'm visiting.

I enjoy traveling by myself because it allows me to fully experience another place in my own way. The best thing I could expect from a host would be someone who could give me tips from a local's perspective on things such as the best place to get a coffee or a beer, or hidden gems in their cities such as parks or other areas that aren't too touristy.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

In October, I will be moving away from Ireland and I will begin teaching English in Madrid for the year. I'm excited and slightly terrified! I've never lived in a city with that many millions of people, but I've visited Madrid before and I fell in love with the place. Prior to finding permanent rented accommodation for the year, I will have to spend a couple of nights with a lovely host. If they could recommend areas/neighborhoods to live, or if they have friends who need a flat mate for the year, I would appreciate any advice or tips.

Before I travel to Madrid, I have to be in Barcelona for an induction meeting on September 27th. I've never been to Barcelona, and I don't know anyone who lives there. I would love to arrive in the city maybe a day or 2 before I'm meant to have the induction, so that I can see the place properly. The only thing I like more than traveling solo, is making new friends in the place that I'm staying. Once I'm set up in Madrid, I'll be more than happy to return the favor of accommodation for anyone kind enough to host me.

Interests

• arts
• writing
• street art
• music festivals
• coffee
• video games
• electronic music
• rock music
• reggae music
• martial arts
• art history
• film photography
• learning languages
• craft beer
• mma
• whiskey
• indie rock
• video editing

Music, Movies, and Books

Music:
Congo Natty, Damian Marley, Bonobo, MIA, Santigold, Daft Punk, Rodrigo y Gabriela, Kendrick Lamar, The Avalanches, Chance the Rapper, Metallica, System of A Down, Pendulum, Knife Party, Kate Bush, Chemical Brothers, Lorde, Faithless, Justice, RHCP. I also apologetically like ABBA, but I promise not to play it in your house.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I once convinced my vegan friend to eat a tequila worm.

I myself then ate a tequila worm after the same vegan friend realized what she had done and refused to eat the second one. I can supply proof in pictures if needed.

The last time I swam in the sea was on Christmas morning in Ireland. It was pretty cold, but good for the skin!

I have been working in an office for the last 2 years and amazingly, I haven't gone crazy yet. Yet.

Teach, Learn, Share

I want to teach English and art.

I intend to learn Spanish. I know enough basic Spanish so to communicate with native speakers, but it is my ambition to become fluent in the language.

I wish to learn more about different cultures and communities. I love learning how to pronounce names that I previously never heard of. I want to learn how to cook different meals and at some point, I'd like to learn how to grow my own food and be self-sufficient. Before I'm 30, I want to try surfing or rock climbing.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share meals with people. I love to help cook and share food around a table with new people with some good wine or beer that I've never tried before. I'm also good at sharing dance floors! I'm a terrible dancer, but who cares.

Being Irish, I will make you the best cup of tea you've ever had in your entire life. That may sound arrogant, but trust me. Irish blood is predominantly composed of tea and whiskey. If my host ever goes to Cork or Dublin and needs accommodation, I will be able to put them in touch with many warm, welcoming people who would be happy to show them around and give them shelter.

Countries I’ve Visited

Italy, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Ireland