Hey everyone!

So, how to describe myself. First of all, I'm a bit of a strange mix; born in South Africa, raised in Australia with a German family (now living in Amsterdam)... before you ask I don't know where I really belong but I like it that way!

I spent majority of my life in Sydney, Australia but left a few years ago to pursue a Masters in Berlin. I moved to Amsterdam almost a year ago (definitely the best decision I ever made) and am currently working for an NGO focusing on strengthening quality of healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa. Lucky for me my job involves lots of travel to many places which I have yet to explore (I was lucky enough to go to Zanzibar on a 'work' trip...), and I am currently enjoying the challenges of adapting to life in the land of stroopwaffels, cheese and bicycles (although this last one took me a while to master)....

I recently took up salsa dancing and have made it a personal priority to sign up for Spanish classes by the end of the year, and when I am not working or attempting to embrace my non existent Latin heritage I enjoy exploring the culinary delights of Amsterdam and trying to make the most of my time in Europe via exploring everything I can! I have an affinity for Canada and the US (spent a summer on a dude ranch in Montana, looooong story but happy to share over a beer or two), German schlager music, country and reggaeton.

Like I said, weird mix but it's working so far :)

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

So to be perfectly honest, this is my first time on couch surfing. I have been lucky enough to do quite a bit of travel in the past, however it has mainly involved hostels and as I travelled by myself most of the time I was never really comfortable with the idea of staying in someone's private home. However, recently a friend of mine who regularly hosts people from all over the world has managed to change my view, and I thought I may as well give it a try!

I truly enjoy meeting new people, but above all the opportunity to experience the real nature of a place, especially one I have never been to. Even if we have nothing in common, I'm great at small talk ;) Plus, if it enables me to meet some great people from all over the world and return the favour one day, I figure why not!

Interests

• salsa dancing
• cooking
• country music
• hiking
• sailing
• horseriding

Music, Movies, and Books

All time favourite movie: Pirates of the Caribbean. A little known fact about me, the reason why I love this movie so much is because of the trumpet solo. Right at the start where Cap'n Jack takes his hat off and salutes the hanged pirates? Best ten seconds of the entire movie. Also, have played the trumpet since I was eight (but sadly, it's currently sitting back at my place in Australia). So if anyone has one lying about...let me know :)

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Maybe it's amazing, maybe in hindsight it was a little silly?

I once took a greyhound from Minnesota to Texas, with no food, phone signal and apparently any sense :D It actually turned out to be the best adventure ever, but that is definitely a story for another time...

I also spent three months working in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was my first time in in the Balkans and an unforgettable three months. Not just in terms of the experiences I had in Sarajevo, but also due to the amount of Borek I ate. No regrets, but after three months it wasn't pretty ;)

What I Can Share with Hosts

I would really just like the chance to meet some great people, share some awesome travel stories and hopefully maybe even make a couple of friends along the way.

I am always happy to share any tips from places I have been, or offer a place to crash in Amsterdam or wherever I may end up. What goes around comes around :)

The critical question: no, I am not a self professed master chef. Yes, I am 100% willing to give it my best for you. But don't say I didn't warn you ;)

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Kenya, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Netherlands, New Caledonia, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Tanzania, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, South Africa