I am a handpan maker and musician living in Turkey, where I run my own brand called Panatolian. My passion is creating and playing handpans, and I often perform in hotels, bars, and on the streets. Music is a central part of my life, and I always carry a handpan with me wherever I go. I love connecting with new musicians, especially those who sing or play ethnic instruments. Exploring the history and musical culture of new cities and countries deeply fascinates me, and I am also drawn to ethnic clothing and unique local flavors. In short, I am deeply inspired by diverse music and culinary experiences.

instagram @merthandpan @panatolian

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on Couchsurfing to connect with fellow music lovers and to learn from the cultural richness of the places I visit. I hope to meet people who share my passion for music and who can introduce me to new instruments and traditions. Additionally, I am eager to improve my English and learn Spanish through conversations with locals. Couchsurfing offers me a unique opportunity to immerse myself in local cultures while sharing my love for handpan music.

Interests

Besides music, I am an avid traveler who likes to delve into the history and local cuisine of the places I visit. I also have a keen interest in ethnic clothing, as I believe they tell unique stories about the culture they come from.

• music
• camping
• hitchhiking
• harmonica
• hangdrum
• handpan

Music, Movies, and Books

I am deeply drawn to meditation music and ethnic, local tunes that reflect the cultural richness of different regions. I enjoy immersing myself in history and physics books, as they allow me to explore the mysteries of the universe and the past. Documentaries are also a favorite of mine, particularly those that delve into historical events or explore scientific concepts. These interests not only enrich my knowledge but also inspire my creative journey in music and life.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the most amazing experiences I've had was performing a spontaneous handpan concert on a beach at sunset. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the rhythmic sound of the waves merged with the ethereal tones of my handpan, creating a magical atmosphere. People from all walks of life gathered around, some joining in with their own instruments, while others simply enjoyed the moment. It was a beautiful example of how music can bring people together and create unforgettable memories

Teach, Learn, Share

I can share my knowledge of handpan music, offering not just lessons but also collaborative jam sessions. I can also share my culinary skills, cooking traditional Turkish meals that reflect the flavors of my homeland. Above all, I'm open to sharing stories, experiences, and cultural insights, making every encounter a mutual exchange.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can offer you a unique musical experience by teaching you how to play the handpan, or we can enjoy some live music together. In addition, I love cooking, and I would be happy to prepare some traditional Turkish meals for you. I'm also interested in learning about the local music instruments and improving my language skills, so I look forward to engaging in rich cultural exchanges.

Countries I’ve Lived In

Turkey