Well, I can say for sure that traveling has changed me a lot. When I graduated from university, I started to travel extensively. My 25th and 26th years are full of great memories of camping, hitchhiking, and spending time in nature. The biggest advantage of it all was that I realized, through experience, that I don’t need to follow the linear life that societal norms try to impose on me. I spent hours talking non-stop with people whose mindsets expanded mine in ways I can’t imagine happening if I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Honestly, I think the chances of meeting interesting people who are open to deep conversations are much higher here. Plus, I really appreciate the non-monetary approach, where you definitely exchange something, but it doesn’t have to be money. It could be a warm plate of food, a chat over coffee, or just a non-judgmental presence. I also enjoy seeing life from someone else’s perspective, someone who isn’t experiencing life exactly like me. The way they experience and share their stories enriches my own life, and I love that! it gives me depth.

Interests

I believe our interests and hobbies evolve with age, but I like to think of myself as someone who’s open to new experiences. While I’m not camping or hitchhiking as much as I used to, I still cherish spending time in nature. I once heard on a podcast that being in nature, even a small park, can bring a 'soft fascination,' and that idea resonated with me. Now, I’m really into long walks; whether in nature or through a city center.

Over the years, I’ve also grown to appreciate the concept of slow living. It aligns with my core values and helps maintain my mental health. This might be one of the reasons I was drawn to Italy! They have this wonderful concept of 'Dolce Far Niente,' which literally means 'the sweetness of doing nothing.'

I’m also deeply interested in psychology and mental health, especially in researching trauma. Additionally, I love history, and I often find myself watching YouTube videos about life in the Medieval Times or the 18th century etc.

Lastly, I have a bit of an obsession with trees. they truly bring me to life! I even have several accessories shaped like trees. So, if you know of a place with beautiful trees, that’s exactly what I need to feel refreshed.

• backpacking
• camping
• swimming
• beaches
• travel
• stargazing
• deep talks
• slow living

Music, Movies, and Books

As a teenager, I used to channel my energy and adrenaline by dancing to pop songs and experiencing my rage through shouting and singing along to my favorite rock tracks. That innocent love for music has stuck with me, and I still find myself doing it sometimes!

Another passion of mine is discovering music from movie trailers or series. For instance, I found Sufjan Stevens through the movie Call Me by Your Name, and I’ve been hooked on his songs ever since.

There’s also a group called The Blaze that I find really interesting, especially in terms of their music videos. They’re an electronic band, and their videos are so creative. I’m also into artists like The Jungle and Ghostly Kisses.

My boyfriend is a huge fan of Stromae, and we might even go to his concert in the near future.

Right now, I’m reading a comic strip called Persepolis, which is amazing! Another book that’s related to psychology and has had a huge influence on me is The Body Keeps the Score.

I also love novels and short stories, especially those from marginalized communities, like stories about immigration to the U.S. in the early 1900s.

When it comes to movies, I’m drawn to dialogue-heavy ones like the Before trilogy. I also enjoy survival movies based on true stories; the last one I watched was Society of Snow.

There’s so much more to share, but maybe we can talk about them in person!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Giving a TEDx talk about breaking out of comfort zone in 2017

Hitchhiking with smugglers' cars on the road !!

Attending a Vipassana course in Italy

Teach, Learn, Share

If you're into languages, I’d be happy to teach you Persian (Farsi)—especially phrases that will come in handy when traveling in my country! (And I'd love to learn some of your language in return!)

I can also offer to cook, so we can chat over some delicious food.

Whether you’re interested in literature, psychology, camping, or pretty much anything fascinating, I’m sure we’ll find plenty to talk about!

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can offer to cook a Persian meal for you or bring you some quality Saffron!

As an English teacher, I can also help you practice English or share some tips to improve your skills.

I’m more than happy to pitch in with house chores wherever needed (and, of course, I’ll keep my space clean and tidy).

If you're interested, I have some pretty interesting stories from my travels that I'd love to share!

Countries I’ve Visited

Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Russian Federation, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Iran, Italy