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David M.
27 References36 FriendsLives in Sydney Olympic Park

About Me Absolutely, there are no coincidences in life. Each experience, every person we meet, teaches us valuable lessons. We all have something to learn and something to teach. "A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal." About me, I'm an Australian and UK citizen currently living on the escarpment of the beautiful Blue Mountains of Australia, 100km west of Sydney. Between 2012 and 2019 I worked and lived in London, Basel, Paris, and Madrid, meeting many people and sharing many couches. During my European adventures, some of my Couchsurfing friends generously opened their homes to me, sometimes for a few nights, sometimes for a few weeks, and even for a few months! They even shared their cars, allowing me to explore new places. In the summer of 2017 (Northern hemisphere), I embarked on an incredible journey, walking 800km on the Camino Francais from Saint Jean Pied de Port to Santiago Compostela. Along the way, I had the pleasure of meeting some truly amazing people, and our friendships still endure. With over 40 years as a healthcare professional in both diabetes self-management education and a midwife delivering babies and teaching families, I am a caring, empathetic, compassionate person. My one true passion though lies in photography. I not only love taking photos but also teaching the art of photography to my hosts and fellow travellers. Whether it's a planned session or a spontaneous moment, I find joy in sharing my skills. Gardening is another of my interests, and I've had wonderful experiences assisting people with their gardening or home maintenance projects in exchange for a place to rest. Live music is a constant source of joy for me, and many of my friends are talented musicians. I'm also an active soul who adores cycling. In 2014, I completed an 1800km ride from central France to Santiago, and in 2015, I cycled EuroVelo 6 from Basel, Switzerland to Tours, France. Walking and talking to get to know people and their towns or cities is a favourite pastime. I'm naturally inquisitive and always eager to discover what's behind the next door or over the next wall. As a true Piscean, I'm imaginative, sensitive, compassionate, kind, selfless, unworldly, intuitive, and sympathetic. According to the Chinese horoscope, I'm a Boar, and my Myers-Briggs personality type is ENFP. I firmly believe in the power of helping others in even the smallest ways. I'm an extrovert, finding my energy in the company of others. My philosophy is simple: there is only now, so let's make the most of each and every moment. You're never truly lost; you're just somewhere different. Seize the day. I may not be perfect, but I'm constantly striving to be the best version of myself and to assist others as much as I can. Surrounding yourself with people who bring happiness, laughter, and support is the key to a fulfilling life. I look forward to the opportunity of meeting you soon, sharing my story and passions, and eagerly learning about yours. Why I’m on Couchsurfing HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING At present I am unable to host but aim to be able to again one day soon. I love the vision of Couchsurfing - "We envision a world where everyone can explore and create meaningful connections with the people and places we encounter. Building meaningful connections across cultures enables us to respond to diversity with curiosity, appreciation and respect. The appreciation of diversity spreads tolerance and creates a global community." When I can I organise events in my hometown to share the wonders of my own area e.g hiking, photography expeditions, dinners. I enjoy hosting and to be hosted: meeting like minded, interesting people to share time with. I surf to share my experiences and learn about people like you - others who enjoy to share who they are. I surf to meet local people and share local experiences. COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE The Couchsurfing Community has been a real experience of sharing. When in France I have had nothing but an amazing connection with the French people. I have also had great experiences with those people surfing with me in my home in Australia. In France: Baking bread with a local baker; dancing some folk dances; making a musical recording with a local musician; walking in the alps with locals; teaching photography; walking around Paris learning French language (poorly) and culture; BBQ with friends of my hosts. And much much much much more. Give as much as you get and make it a sharing experience, not just a bed for the night. Interests Cycling: In the summer of 2014 I rode 1800km 2014 from Moulins France to Santiago Spain on the Chemin St Jaques Compstelle. Teaching: what I know, we all have something to teach, we all have something to learn. Photography: my number 1 passion. I like to teach if you are wanting to learn. Art, music, people, bushwalking (hiking), playing board games ie Scrabble, backgammon, etc

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Chris W.
45 References111 FriendsLives in Mascot

CURRENT MISSION Support people in living their best lives. Running a new life coaching business, helping people manage their ADHD and procrastination. ABOUT ME I also work with a non-profit I helped set up (Appropedia.org). This means supporting efforts to create sustainable lives and a sustainable world without poverty, through sharing solutions - sustainable technologies, designs and practices. These days I'm also involved in the Effective Altruism movement. I swim in the ocean throughout the year and try to keep active, and I like finding friends who stretch me in new ways. But I do look forward to another long, slow journey in coming years. I'm a bit of a hippie and a lot of a nerd. Please include the word "pumpkin" in your couch request so I know you've read my profile. PHILOSOPHY Do what you believe in. Grab hold of new experiences. Learn, question your beliefs, do something for others, life is now.

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Juro J.
82 References46 FriendsLives in Sydney

Somewhat organised and chill Slovak located in Kings Cross/ Potts Point. I share the flat with one flatmate. Love going to the beach or eating out. Curious to hear what brings you to Sydney and what your plan is here. Can't always host, but one never knows. I'm open to hanging out in the city too. Sometimes I don't mind last-minute requests.

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Ryan C.
33 References44 FriendsLives in Sydney

My name is Ryan, and I'm a biped carbon-based life form. In my spare time I enjoy walking upright and being warm-blooded. I live on planet Earth, a piece of rock orbiting a giant fireball in the middle of nowhere. I feel I belong here.

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