I'm a bit of a digital nomad. Having spent almost three years backpacking throughout SE Asia, I have come to appreciate the simpler things in life.

I was traveling through the Philippines when I met Marissa, a native from the Philippines. She and I immediately connected with one another and after a short while of traveling together we decided to get married and so our journey together begins.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I think we each do our parts to making this world a more enjoyable place to live. We learn and grow as we connect to those around us. Hospitality is a gift that blesses both the giver and receiver.

My wife and I have always enjoyed meeting new people and of course, discovering new friends.

Interests

I am a Renaissance man, skilled and educated the old fashioned way. If something interests me, I strive to be great at it. I enjoy doing things and sharing experiences with others. Tango Dancing, Food, cooking, diving, cinema, road trips, traveling, motorcycle riding, snowboarding, scuba diving, yoga... The list goes on...

• singing
• dancing
• cooking
• motorcycles
• traveling
• camping
• scuba diving
• swimming
• island hopping

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

It's said that when you marry a Filipina, you not only gain a wife, you gain a family as well.

This too has been true with my wife Marissa. As the youngest of four, her sister, mother and two older brothers have become my family.

Their lives could not be more different than life in the west. They belong to the T'boli / Blann tribe located up in the jungle province of the Philippines.

Marissa and I are in the process of helping the family start thier own business with the intent that the business will not only support them but will also be a business that helps in supporting the local tribes and community in a more sustainable way.

We have also set up a foundation to support and educate the young children whom, without the support of the outside world, would have little opportunity for a proper education.

Teach, Learn, Share

I love SE Asia and the Philippines in particular. The culture, people and natural beauty is simply amazing. Manila is often overlooked as most people try to get to the islands and white sand beaches as soon as possible.

Whether you are a first time backpacker and new to SE Asia or you've been touring for years, I can help you plan your trip through the Philippines and even help you get the most out of your time here.

I'd say a majority of travelers coming to Manila are coming off of a long flight. Jet lagged, tired, hungry and just feeling like you need a change of clothes and a shower is very typical. Our place is great for getting adjusted to the new climate and time zone. It's safe, comfortable and is centrally located to accommodate any of your needs 24 hours a day. Arriving to a new country can often be confusing and of course, you can be an easy target for being over charged for nearly everything.

Hopefully we can make your arrival and first couple of day more memorable.

What I Can Share with Hosts

We can share our different cultures with stories, photos and cooking. Both Marissa and I enjoy spending time in the kitchen.

After traveling and backpacking both solo and as a couple, you learn many things and over the years I have helped countless people with the art of traveling.

Countries I’ve Visited

Argentina, Cambodia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Philippines, United States