Hi everyone! My name's Nicole and I'm a recent graduate who studied International Security Conflict Resolution with emphasis in Spanish and Portuguese languages. I grew up in a Salvadoran and Cuban household, so I was exposed to other cultures outside of the United States at an extremely young age, and ever since then it's had me longing to learn more about the world around me! It wasn't until these last few years that I have been able to travel a bit more, and I hope to continue doing so!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

It's an amazing way to get to know cultures while you're traveling to new destinations. There's nothing quite like a local's perspective.

Interests

I like, no LOVE being outdoors. I like hammock-ing, beach-ing (these are made up Nicole verbs) hiking, snorkeling, swimming, biking, and running. If I'm not outdoors I'm probably binge watching Archer or Gossip Girl on Netflix under a pile of blankets. Cafés are my thing. I always remember a good espresso. Some subjects that really get me going are things pertaining to: animals, globalization, cultural exchanges, anything science related, art/media design, and of course FOOD.

• animals
• arts
• books
• design
• dining
• cooking
• running
• outdoor activities
• cycling
• hiking
• snorkeling
• swimming
• communications
• science
• beaches
• #culture

Music, Movies, and Books

Some of my favorite artists include:
The Strokes, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Arctic Monkeys, Father John Misty, Portugal. The Man, Glass Animals, Jamie T, Banda do Mar, Beach House, Little Joy... the list is endless, really.

I'm not a huge movie buff, but I do enjoy myself an occasional foreign or indie film here and there. My favorite film at the moment is Submarine.

My favorite books run across the board, but currently my favorites are The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and Women by Charles Bukowski.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I'll have to get back to you on that!

Teach, Learn, Share

I'm like a Snapple cap, I know a lot about random topics/things. Did you know that only male turkeys gobble? Well, now you do!
I can show you how to make the one dish I'm good at cooking--pupusas. If you've never had one be prepared to have your world changed. haha
I like to trade books and little souvenirs with others. It's like a little token, and a lot of fun when you reflect back on the memories that token brings you back to.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share my knowledge of Southern California-- I was born and bred here! Anywhere from the central coast of Santa Barbara to Los Angeles all the way down to sunny San Diego, California I'd be glad to show you around my hometowns!

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Portugal, United States