Hello! I'm Aprah (May), a 30-something AI entrepreneur from Shanghai, China. I'm the founder of an AI+hospitality startup, combining my passion for technology with my love for exploring authentic cultures and connecting with people from around the world.

With a PhD in Hotel & Tourism Management and an MBA background, I'm naturally curious about how things work - whether it's the latest AI innovations or the cultural dynamics that shape different societies.

I'm currently exploring Europe to experience authentic local life beyond the tourist trail. I believe that life is a collection of experiences, and I'm always seeking genuine conversations with locals, spontaneous discoveries, and those meaningful connections that make travel special.

I love meaningful conversations over coffee, exploring cities on foot, running and hiking, and learning from people who see the world differently.

Whether it's discussing philosophy over wine, sharing a home-cooked meal, or simply walking through a neighborhood with fresh eyes, I'm here to contribute positive energy, cultural exchange, and genuine friendship to the amazing Couchsurfing community.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

After years of business travel staying in hotels, I realized I was missing the real heart of travel - authentic connections with locals and genuine cultural exchange.

I'm here to experience places through the eyes of people who actually live there, not just visit them. Whether it's sharing a home-cooked meal, discovering a neighborhood café only locals know about, or having those spontaneous conversations that change how you see the world - these are the moments that make travel truly meaningful.

Interests

• architecture
• running
• technology
• hiking
• tennis
• museums
• active adventures

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Jazz and pop (both Western and Chinese) - always excited to discover local artists and music scenes.

Movies: Love films that make you think - "The Truman Show," "Interstellar," and always open to recommendations that offer cultural insights.

Books: Currently reading "The World I See" by Fei-Fei Li. Also love "The Three-Body Problem" and Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations" - anything that bridges cultures or offers new perspectives.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I love pushing boundaries through endurance challenges. My team and I won a 3-day, 70-kilometer desert race - something about those endless sand dunes and star-filled nights was truly transformative.

I've also completed Hong Kong's legendary 100km Oxfam Trailwalker with colleagues in 29 hours non-stop. Watching the sunrise over the mountains after hiking through the night reminded me why I'm drawn to adventures that test both body and spirit.

These experiences taught me that the best moments happen when you step outside your comfort zone with good people by your side.

Teach, Learn, Share

What I can teach: Mandarin Chinese, AI tools for daily life, authentic Chinese cooking, and insights about starting businesses in China.

What I want to learn: Local culture and traditions, learn some Spanish, and hear different perspectives on life and happiness across cultures.

What I love sharing: Stories about modern China, travel adventures, and those deep conversations about life and human connection that make couchsurfing special.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Authentic cultural exchange: Stories about modern China, how AI is changing our world, and insights from building a startup in Asia's most dynamic market.

Practical help: I'm happy to assist with cooking, cleaning, or any household tasks. I can also help with tech questions or teach some Mandarin phrases.

Good conversations: Whether over coffee in the morning or wine in the evening, I love meaningful discussions about travel, culture, life philosophies, and everything in between.

Positive energy: I'm a clean, respectful, and independent guest who believes in leaving places better than I found them. Most importantly, I'm genuinely interested in learning from you and your perspective on life.

Countries I’ve Visited

Cambodia, France, Greece, Indonesia, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

China