Hi! My name is Vivi, and almost two years ago I uprooted my life in sunny Manila, Philippines to move across the world to discover who I truly am and what I want from life. Now, I kinda know what I want and I am just trying to get there :)) (aka to study again, do a career pivot and go after my childhood dreams)

Previously, I have worked for a large software design company, and freelance as a podcast and video producer for US-based tech companies.

Currently, I am based in Germany and in the phase of moving between cities to pursue a Federal Volunteer Service (Bundesfreiwilligendienst) while I improve my German to get university-ready. Before this, I was an Au Pair in the vibrant city of Berlin for a year. People often describe me as friendly, open, kind and curious about the world at large. I love reading and writing, and I'm in the process of creating my own blog and a podcast to document my life abroad so far.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I am currently in the process of interviewing for volunteer organizations and looking for a long-term apartment in Hamburg, but I've quickly discovered it takes some time. Hence, I am looking not only to find a place to stay but also interesting people to meet that can potentially me more insight into the city and hopefully, lasting friendships!

Interests

• animals
• cats
• dogs
• writing
• theater
• running
• movies
• reading
• traveling
• hiking
• climbing

Music, Movies, and Books

I listen to all types of music (pop, rock, hip-hop, classical, jazz, etc) but right now I am really enjoying Sultans of Swing by Dire Straights :)

My favorite movie and what inspired me to move to Europe is Before Sunrise

I have a lot of favorite books but the ones that made a lasting impact on me were The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle (as a child), Harry Potter series & Catcher In The Rye (as a teen) and The Midnight Library as an adult.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Hmm... probably left a "comfortable" (job, apartment, friends & family) life behind and moved across the world to become an Au Pair because I wanted to experience more of life!

I also have traveled multiple times from Zurich, Switzerland to Berlin, Germany and back using only the Deutschland Ticket which doesn't seem so amazing but it's a very stressful feat :)))

Teach, Learn, Share

I am curious, open-minded, and love learning about the world, especially topics I am not so knowledgeable in so I would love to hear all about your interests!!

Also, I am not vegan or vegetarian but I am quite curious and would love to learn some recipes if you are.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I am fluent in English and Filipino and would be happy to teach anyone interested! I am also learning German, with a B2 level (based on my recent Goethe exams :))) )

I am also an experienced podcast & video editor, social media manager, writer and Canva pro-ish as a former employee so I can help you out with any digitally creative projects <3

If you have kids or pets, I would also be more than happy to play with them!

Countries I’ve Visited

Czech Republic, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Netherlands, Philippines, Poland, Qatar, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand

Countries I’ve Lived In

Germany, Philippines