Hi

I'm originally from London - though my family is from South Africa, and way back, from Gujarat in India - and I now live in Lisbon, where I'm slowly learning Portuguese.

I was a journalist for a long time and I got to travel a lot and meet interesting people, and I still like to take trips whenever I can, mainly on my bicycle - where couchsurfing has been amazing in helping meet really interesting people and get to know some of the small towns and villages

For the first time I am living alone with my girlfriend (no housemates!) so I'm in a position to host people, and I'm looking forward to contributing to the community by showing people something of Lisbon, as well as continuing to meet new people on my own trips.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Because whenever I've used it before I've had an incredible time meeting lovely people and getting to understand the places I stay much much better!

Interests

I like bicycling a lot. And waking and nature. Oh and swimming. Sometimes I read books too!

• cycling
• hiking
• journalism
• horse riding

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Wow this is a really difficult question - ask me in person?

Teach, Learn, Share

I used to study meditation quite intensively - 10 day silent vipassana retreats.

I can't teach the technique - it's far too complex - but I can certainly talk about why I was attracted to it, and what was interesting about it - and also why I'm a bit lazy with my practice these days!!! :)

What I Can Share with Hosts

Friendly smile, thoughtfulness, help with washing and taking care of kids!!! Stories to share.

Countries I’ve Lived In

Maldives, Portugal, United Kingdom, United States