Hi! I'm Gary Gilbert, a 40-something Scotsman currently working at St.Andrews University. My daily life back in St. Andrews involves looking after 2 young children. In my spare time I enjoy playing poker regularly and hiking with my partner, but my heart truly belongs to exploration on land and deep-sea adventure.

My travel style is focused on experience and connection. I'm not ticking off checklists; I’m looking to spend quality time in a location, learning from the people who live there. I'm tidy, respectful of schedules and genuinely enjoy helping out around the house. I always aim to leave a positive impression!

The highlight of my life is my time as a Dive Master—especially the period I spent leading dives in the Galapagos Islands. This experience has made me patient, adaptable, and deeply appreciative of nature and new environments. I carry that mindset wherever I go.

I look forward to meeting you, sharing some great stories, and hopefully sharing my passion for [Specific Interest, e.g., nature/history/food] with you!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on Couchsurfing because the best part of travelling isn't seeing monuments, it's meeting the people who call a place home. I love the idea of stepping out of the tourist bubble and experiencing local life through the eyes of a new friend. It's about genuine connection, swapping stories over a cup of coffee, and having an authentic cultural exchange.
To be part of a global, trusting community! I genuinely love hosting (and hope to host more often!) and getting to know travellers who pass through my city. When I travel, I want to pay that kindness forward. Couchsurfing is the most incredible way to build friendships around the world and share a little bit of my life, while getting a glimpse into others.
Not to mention for the adventure! I’m looking for more than just a place to sleep; I'm looking for a local guide and a new perspective. I want to learn the secret spots, try the hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and have conversations that wouldn't happen in a hotel lobby. It’s the best way to travel sustainably and with a sense of curiosity.

Music, Movies, and Books

I am a big Indie music fan with some of my most favourite being Oasis, Snow patrol, Beck, Coldplay, Jack Johnson, Adele, Micheal Buble, Moby, Elle Goulding, Sam Smith, Calvin Harris, Ed Sheeran.
When it come to films I have a wide variety of film genres that I enjoy watching. Some of my all time favourite films would be The Shawshank Redemption, The Usual Suspects, Reservoir Dogs, TrainSpotting, Forrest Gump, Seven, Fight Club, Matrix, Back to the future, Pulp Fiction, Jaws.
When it come to Books I now rarely get into a new fiction book so only read factual books when learning something new.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Without a doubt, the most incredible experience of my life was the time I worked as a Dive Master leading groups in the Galapagos Islands.

Being submerged in that unique ecosystem day after day was truly mind-blowing. Imagine being surrounded by dozens of playful sea lions, swimming alongside giant marine iguanas, and watching massive schools of hammerhead sharks glide silently past.

It wasn't just a job; it was a daily adventure where I felt completely connected to the raw power and beauty of the natural world. It taught me immense respect for the ocean and gave me stories I'll be telling for the rest of my life. If you’re a diver, we definitely have something to talk about.

Teach, Learn, Share

I can share incredible, first-hand stories and knowledge from my time working as a Dive Master in the Galapagos Islands. If you or your friends are interested in marine life, ocean conservation, or diving, I would be thrilled to talk deep-sea ecology or share tips on learning to dive safely. It’s an easy way to spend an evening!
I love to cook and am happy to take over the kitchen for an evening! I can prepare a delicious, hearty stew. Alternatively, I'm always happy to teach a few fun phrases in Scottish.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I love the idea of an exchange! I can share amazing stories and first-hand knowledge from my time working as a Dive Master—especially if you or your family are interested in marine life, ocean conservation, or even learning basic dive safety.

On the domestic side, I'd be happy to prepare a delicious Fajitas for dinner or teach you some fun, useful slang in English. As an experienced traveller, I'm also very tidy, organised, and happy to lend a hand with chores or running errands.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Belize, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Spain, Switzerland, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

England, Germany, Peru, Scotland