I can be deadpan serious when I'm shy, but an absolute goofball when someone puts out that 90s playlist everyone gets sentimental about. I like to set things by my own pace, but I'll tag along with people whom I'm interested in sharing experiences and such.

I'm in a place in my life right now where I'm loving my place in the world and meeting interesting people, exploring new and challenging ideas, and at least having some downtime to catch up on my own thoughts. I am a graphic designer with a passion for visual storytelling, and I am actively seeking new inspirations and experiences for my creative work that I contribute to my colleagues and to our readers. Working hard to gain stability over the past year, I've finally caught the travel bug.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I've couchsurfed once many years ago, and the experience was quite an eye opener as I've met a lot of people whom I continue to keep in touch with. To be enlightened by the experiences of others helps me to appreciate humanity and to be more open as I mature. One day I can accommodate Couchsurfers to feel more comfortable in opening myself to others and to be more mindful of sharing my talents for the good of others. I would love to meet others who are in a search for something great in their lives. I am open to hearing your story. I am an intuitive learner and I tend to be expressive of my thoughts and opinions, so I'm looking forward to meaningful conversations and insights with my hosts.

Interests

I love to draw intricate cityscapes and cutaways of urban life, and in my past life I was a professional photographer and I'm getting back into landscape photography. I am an urbanist, public transport enthusiast, and a mapmaker, and I am fortunate to apply all these interests with my current job. I love to people watch, and just take in the humanity around us all. I love being in concert venues or small intimate spaces to listen to live music.

I really nerd out on things like metros and maps, collecting little souvenirs of anything public transport. The intersection of old and new technology in design with maps and ephemeral material really interests me.

I am an active cyclist who enjoys biking through the concrete jungle of my city, as well as racing occasionally and having the goal of trying out other cycling disciplines in the future. I'm actually bringing a folding bicycle for my travels, so I can get as far away as I can.

I am an introvert who cherishes alone time, but I am affable especially when the shyness fades away. I tend to be a listener, and I am a curious learner.

• design
• graphic design
• photography
• concerts
• dining
• cooking
• vegetarian
• drinking
• technology
• traveling
• drawing
• music
• live music
• cycling
• business
• cartography

Music, Movies, and Books

My vinyl collection can be considered eclectic, from Mike Oldfield to Arcade Fire. My Spotify playlist varies based on my mood or current activity. Some movies of note: Nightcrawler, Ex Machina, Dr. Strangelove. I read a lot of non fiction, biographical, and design books.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

My design team and I were recently nominated for best presentation for a national newspaper award. I spearheaded a comprehensive elections coverage designed for tablet with many hours and energy drinks.

*I also drank some mamajuana after discovering a burger joint in Brooklyn and made friends with the Dominican owners :). I also slept in the NYC subway one night.

Teach, Learn, Share

I suppose I can teach anyone how to design their own logos for a brand, perhaps one who seeks to start their own business, I can show them how to promote themselves better through graphic design. I know basic tuneup for bicycles, and I'm actively learning how to repair them.

I make a solid stir fry (vegetarian or with meat). I love spicy food and I'm learning how to make an eclectic bunch of culinary treats despite my busy schedule.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can cook and share responsibilities, of course no hard labour but if you need the cow milked, I can help you out.

Countries I’ve Visited

France, Iceland, Philippines, United Kingdom, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, Philippines