Hey! I’m Shayla, I’m 19 and from Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺

Earlier this year, I packed up my life into a few bags and moved to Italy to work as an au pair — one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Living abroad has taught me so much: how to adapt to new places and people, how to find home wherever you are, and how to stay grounded even when everything around you is changing. It’s also taught me the beauty of slowing down, sharing meals, and appreciating the little things that make each day feel alive.

As a little break from au pair life, I’ve decided to backpack around Europe and see more of this beautiful world — meet new people, try new food, and get lost in the kind of moments you can’t plan. I’m curious, easygoing, and always up for an adventure or a deep chat that goes until 2 a.m. I feel alive connecting with people on a deep level, and I love music of all kinds, exploring anywhere possible, eating and living a healthy life, and just soaking up everything life has to offer.

I really value authenticity and connection — the kind of experiences that make you feel something real. I love learning from people, hearing their stories, and seeing how they see the world. That’s what travel means to me — collecting moments, not things.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

For me, Couchsurfing isn’t just about finding a place to sleep — it’s about connecting with people who see life in a similar way. I’ve been travelling through Europe, and the most meaningful moments have always come from meeting locals, sharing stories, and getting a glimpse into how other people live and think.

I love the idea of staying with someone who’s open-minded, curious, and down-to-earth — someone who enjoys both the deep conversations and the silly laughs that come with real connection. I think sharing space, food, and stories brings out something honest in people, and that’s what makes Couchsurfing so special.

I really value those late-night talks that go from music to philosophy to total nonsense. Life’s not serious; it’s meant to be felt and shared — and Couchsurfing is the best way to do exactly that.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Seen the Northern lights in Kiruna

What I Can Share with Hosts

I always try to bring good energy, respect, and genuine connection wherever I stay. I love sharing stories, cooking together, or just having those spontaneous deep or funny conversations that happen naturally. I’m happy to help around the house, cook a meal, or bring something small from my travels as a thank-you.

I love music, so if there’s ever a chance to share a song or just talk about what moves us, I’m always up for it. I’m also clean, considerate, and pretty independent — I know what it’s like to host, and I always make sure to leave a space better than I found it.

More than anything, I offer good company and an open mind. I really enjoy connecting with people who see life as something to experience, not just pass through — and I think that kind of shared outlook makes any stay meaningful for both people.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Austria, Egypt, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Scotland, Spain, Sweden

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Spain