CURRENT MISSION

We strive to learn more and broaden our horizons as we experience life in the many places we have never been.

ABOUT ME

We are two college graduates that find themselves embarking on a European journey. After finishing university, Alex, 23, has found himself implanted in the North of France teaching English to middle school children (ages 11-15). When he's not at work, he can be found out on the town with his friends, at the beach (he lives on the English Channel), or just chilling at home reading and enjoying music. Beth Ann is 23 and a recent college graduate with a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) in Musical Theatre. She loves to sing, act, paint, and dabble in many different forms of art. Beth Ann grew up in Michigan, but now lives in Chicago, Illinois. She loves trying new things, and striving to see the many parts of the world that she has yet to experience. We'll be travelling in the UK, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Ireland during May and June 2010.

PHILOSOPHY

Alex: Life is an adventure. We don't necessarily know where we're going or what we're doing; but thanks to those around us, we can begin to see the similarities between us. We need not plan each and every moment, as sometimes the best experiences in life are totally unplanned. Every day we wake up in the morning is a gift, and we need to embrace it head on.

Beth Ann: I believe everything happens for a reason and when you trust things to work out for the best, they usually do. I live my life trying to experience the most that life has to hold for me, knowing there is always something new to learn right around the corner. I express myself through art and music. Without self expression I feel life would not have the same meaning.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

Alex: Having lived in Europe once before (in Paris), I got the chance to meet some friends from other countries. I've visited some of them, and have been able to go sleep on their couches when they're around. It's been a great experience, and I've found that the local people have been great at being able to give hints and tips as to what should be seen, and what isn't worth the visit.

Interests

Alex: Music (all types except country), Reading, Singing, Going out, Food, Learning/Sharing, and above all, just getting to know others

Beth Ann: Music, Art, Impressionism, Theatre, Performance Art, Photography, Singing, Cooking, Food, Learning, and Dance.

• arts
• humanities
• singing
• performing arts
• impressionism
• photography
• dancing
• dining
• cooking
• working out
• reading
• traveling
• painting
• music
• beaches

Music, Movies, and Books

Alex: My favorite movies are "Bienvenue Chez les Ch'tis" (French), "Twister," "21," "The Pianist," and "L'auberge espagnole" (French). I like all types of music from rock (Tryo [french] / Green Day) to Rap (Eminem) to Classical (Bach, Beethoven) to Pop (Akon, Black Eyed Peas). When I get a chance to read, I enjoy reading mysteries and books that make you think.

Beth Ann: I love all styles of music from classical to alternative. Some of my favorite artists are Billy Joel, The Proclaimers, AFI, The Beatles, Stephen Sondheim, and Gaelic Storm. Some of my favorite movies are: Peter Pan (the 1954 Mary Martin version) Under the Tuscan Sun, Her Minor Thing, Die Hard, and Mrs. Doubtfire. Some of my favorite books are: Survivor, Cold Sassy Tree, Oh The Places You'll Go, and Lullaby

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Alex: The most amazing thing that I've done in my lifetime is having been able to go and see the concentration camps at Auschwitz in Poland. The visit there is one that leaves a lasting impression on you, and is one that really makes you think.

Beth Ann: On my first visit to Europe I was able to see the VanGogh museum in Amsterdam. Being able to see the many beautiful pieces from the beginning to the very end of his career was an amazing experience. Some are filled with hope, while others ache with the pain that haunted him. It showed me how an artist can move people, and how art can express the colors of a person's life.