Hello fellow travellers!

Namaste! My name is Umang Shah, and I hail from the vibrant land of India. However, for the past six years, I've been fortunate enough to call Europe my second home. During this time, I've had the incredible opportunity to explore and immerse myself in 16 captivating countries.

My passion for adventure knows no bounds, and I find sheer joy in backpacking and trekking through picturesque landscapes. There's nothing quite like the feeling of being one with nature, and I cherish every opportunity to embark on thrilling journeys into the wilderness.

Aside from my love for the great outdoors, I also have a penchant for the world of imagination and creativity. You'll often find me engrossed in a captivating book, sketching the beautiful sights I encounter, or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.

Travelling for me is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with people and learning about different cultures. I find it fascinating to hear stories, share experiences, and gain insights into the lives of locals and fellow travellers alike. It's the perfect way to broaden my horizons and foster meaningful connections around the globe.

Professionally, I am a railway engineer, and I'm genuinely passionate about everything related to trains, mobility, and sustainability. I could talk endlessly about the evolution of transportation and how it impacts our lives and the planet we share.

At this very moment, I'm training for an upcoming marathon in the enchanting country of Greece. The idea of pushing my limits and exploring Greece through the lens of running excites me beyond measure.

I'm eager to host and meet like-minded adventurers who are enthusiastic about exploring, sharing stories, and embracing the spirit of curiosity. Whether you need a cosy couch to crash on during your journey or simply wish to exchange travel tales, I'm here to welcome you with open arms.

Let's come together and celebrate the beauty of travel, culture, and human connections. See you on the road!

Cheers,
Umang

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I am on Couchsurfing because I believe in the power of genuine human connections and cultural exchange. I have been travelling with my friends in the past, but now mostly I travel solo. Through this platform, I can meet like-minded travellers and locals, share experiences, and embrace the spirit of adventure. It's a wonderful way to explore new places, understand different perspectives, and create meaningful memories with people from all walks of life. Couchsurfing allows me to extend a warm welcome to fellow travellers and also be welcomed with open arms during my own journeys, fostering a global community of openness, kindness, and understanding.

Interests

• cooking
• running
• anime
• reading
• drawing
• hiking
• trekking
• manga
• trains

Music, Movies, and Books

A song of Ice and fire, Hunger Games, Atomic Habits, The power of habit, The courage to be disliked, Start with why.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the most amazing things I have done is co-founding a trekking company during my college days. It was a passion-driven endeavour to make the beauty of nature accessible to everyone at an affordable price. Over the course of two years, we organized around 30 treks, providing unforgettable experiences to fellow adventurers. However, the most incredible feat I'm looking forward to now is finishing a marathon in November 2023. The journey of training and pushing my physical limits has been both challenging and rewarding, and I can't wait to cross that finish line and achieve this personal milestone.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach: First and foremost, I am passionate about long-distance running. As someone who has taken on the challenge of marathon training and completed various races, I am thrilled to share my knowledge and experiences with you. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner with dreams of conquering long distances, I am here to guide you with training tips, mental preparation, and the sheer joy of crossing the finish line.

Secondly, trekking is an inseparable part of my soul, and I love everything about it - from planning epic adventures to conquering new trails. I am excited to share my expertise in trekking and planning, from choosing the perfect route to packing the right gear. Let's navigate the wilderness together and cherish the serenity of nature's embrace.

Lastly, India holds a special place in my heart, and I am eager to share the wonders of this diverse land. From the vibrant culture to the rich history, from the mesmerizing landscapes to the culinary delights, I invite you to explore the treasures of India through my eyes and experiences.

Share: As we cross paths on our journeys, I am eager to share my views and experiences with an open heart. Let's exchange stories, ideas, and perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's cultures and backgrounds. I believe in the magic of sharing, and I am thrilled to listen to your tales and learn from your unique journey through life.

Learn: One of the most beautiful aspects of travel is the opportunity to learn from people and places where we stay. I am a curious soul, eager to understand the nuances of different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. As I stay with locals and immerse myself in the communities, I yearn to absorb the essence of their stories and embrace the diversity that makes our world so fascinating.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I am more than happy to contribute and be a helpful guest during my time at your home. I genuinely believe in the spirit of sharing and making meaningful connections, and I would be delighted to assist you in any way possible.

I can lend a helping hand with household chores, whether it's cooking a delicious meal, keeping the space tidy and clean, organizing belongings, or even participating in building or DIY projects if needed. Your comfort and convenience are important to me, and I am eager to contribute to the harmony of your home.

Moreover, I am open to joining you in any outdoor or indoor activities that you enjoy. Whether it's exploring the local area, going on hikes or treks, participating in cultural events, or simply spending quality time together, I am excited to be part of the experiences that make your home and community special.

In terms of expenses, I am more than willing to contribute a small amount to cover any additional costs such as gas, electricity, or other basic facilities that you kindly provide during my stay. It's essential for me to be a responsible and respectful guest, and I want to ensure that my presence adds value to your hosting experience.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Germany, India