Md Yeasir Arafat Hossain
From: Dhaka, Bangladesh

I’ve been serving in the military for the past 19 years as a Major in the Bangladesh Army, currently commanding an infantry company. My journey has taken me around the world, from training in United Kingdom to working under the United Nations in Mali in 2015, and now serving as the Force Protection Unit Commander in Sudan under the UN.

I am passionate about exploring diverse cultures, especially local tribal traditions, and making meaningful connections with people wherever I go. For me, travel is not just about visiting places—it's about immersing myself in the local way of life, learning from those around me, and broadening my perspectives. I believe in truly knowing the world, one interaction at a time.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me listening to music, reading military history, or watching war movies. As a guest, I’m respectful and easy-going, always eager to share my military experiences. As a host, I’d love to show you around Bangladesh, giving you an authentic look into my country’s culture and traditions.

I joined Couchsurfing to meet like-minded individuals who value cultural exchange and to explore the world through the eyes of locals. I enjoy traveling with knowledgeable locals who can give me insights and background on their home, and I’m happy to do the same for visitors to my country. Having traveled across Asia, Africa, Europe, the UK, and the Middle East for both work and leisure, I’m always looking for my next adventure and open-minded people to share it with.

My philosophy is simple: “Take only memories, leave only footprints.” – Chief Seattle. Looking forward to making lasting memories with fellow travelers!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

"I'm on Couchsurfing to make genuine connections with new friends, exchange cultures, and discover the world through the eyes of locals. There's something special about exploring a city with someone who knows its hidden gems and can share the stories behind every corner. I’m eager to experience authentic street food and immerse myself in the real lifestyle of the places I visit, staying with locals who can teach me about their way of life. For me, travel is about more than just sightseeing; it’s about embracing the true essence of a place. Likewise, I’m excited to welcome travelers to my country, share my traditions, and give them a warm experience of our local culture. I look forward to hosting and creating the same memorable experiences that I seek as a guest."

Interests

• wildlife
• nightlife
• shopping
• solo travel
• nature
• street food
• local food
• culture exchange
• local cuisine
• open minded people
• tribal dance
• travel partner

Music, Movies, and Books

My Favorite Music:
I have a diverse taste in music, ranging from Bengali Modern Songs to global genres. In Bengali music, I enjoy the soulful tunes of Hemanta Mukherjee and Lata Mangeshkar, particularly albums like Ei Raat Tomar Amar and Ami Je Jalsaghare. Folk music by Bhupen Hazarika also has a special place in my heart. I love Indian movie songs, especially those from the golden era, with timeless hits by Kishore Kumar and Mohammad Rafi. When it comes to Urdu Qawwali, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's Shahbaaz Qalandar is a powerful favorite. For more modern vibes, I enjoy Latin music by artists like Shakira, especially her album Laundry Service, and English modern pop like Ed Sheeran’s Divide. I also have a deep appreciation for instrumental jazz, particularly saxophone tracks from John Coltrane and violin pieces from Itzhak Perlman. African drum beats and Spanish guitar also resonate with me, especially Carlos Santana's iconic albums like Supernatural.

My Favorite Movies:
I’m a huge fan of war, fiction, crime, and action movies, especially in Hindi and English. Bond series is my ultimate favorite, with Skyfall and Casino Royale being standout films. I also love the Transporter series starring Jason Statham for its fast-paced action and intense plotlines. In Hindi cinema, I enjoy crime and action thrillers like Don and Dhoom series. Fiction movies like Inception and Interstellar also captivate me with their complex storytelling and stunning visuals. I appreciate movies that explore war and history, with titles like Saving Private Ryan and Dunkirk giving an insightful look into military experiences.

My Favorite Books:
I love reading travel books that inspire wanderlust, like Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne and Lonely Planet's World in 365 Days. Spy fiction always keeps me on edge; I’m a fan of classics like Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle and more modern thrillers like The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré. War histories such as The Guns of August by Barbara Tuchman give me a deeper understanding of pivotal moments in world history. When it comes to politics, The World Is Flat by Thomas Friedman and The Clash of Civilizations by Samuel Huntington intrigue me with their analyses of global political shifts and challenges.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

During one of my travels, I found myself in a bar at night, just unwinding after a long day. As I sat there, I noticed a young woman trying to catch my attention, clearly seeking clients. Instead of ignoring her or engaging in the usual way, I asked if she had eaten. She said no, so I offered her dinner. She then mentioned she had a younger sister, and I invited them both to join me. It was obvious that her sister was still quite young, and I couldn’t help but feel deeply concerned for their situation.

As we shared a meal, I learned they were in this profession to support their studies, as their parents couldn’t afford the costs. Touched by their story, I encouraged them to return home for the night, offering to cover whatever they might have earned. But they graciously declined, saying the dinner was enough. As they were about to leave, I realized they didn’t have taxi fare, so I escorted them outside, called a taxi, and paid for their ride home. It was a small gesture, but one that left a lasting impression on me. That night wasn’t about what I did, but the human connection and kindness that both they and I experienced.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach: I believe in the power of cultural exchange and learning from diverse experiences. As someone passionate about exploring local cultures and traditions, I can teach you about the unique aspects of Military basics, which I’ve deeply leraned through my profession. I can also share my knowledge about Bangladeshi history, customs, and cuisine, which I love introducing to people.

Learn: On the flip side, I’m eager to learn from you—whether it’s exploring your city’s hidden gems, tasting street food, or diving into your local traditions.

Share: Together, we can share stories, travel tips, and unique experiences that help us both grow and see the world in new ways.

What I Can Share with Hosts

As a passionate traveler and cultural enthusiast, I bring a wealth of experiences to share with my hosts. I can introduce you to the military experience including working with UN in multidimensional cultures. My travels have led me to appreciate the nuances of local traditions and lifestyles, and I’m excited to engage in meaningful conversations about history, politics, and cultural practices.

Moreover, I’m open to sharing stories of my adventures, including heartwarming moments that reflect the kindness of strangers. As a host, I would love to reciprocate the warmth by showcasing my own culture and traditions, ensuring a memorable exchange for both of us.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, England, France, India, Mali, Morocco, Netherlands, Pakistan, Singapore, South Sudan, Sudan, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates

Countries I’ve Lived In

Bangladesh