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Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada
@benkarstad
Member since 2022
I'm Ben, I'm currently on a mission to see the world from the seat of my motorbike. I'm open minded and outgoing, but I'm not a party animal. I'm traveling because I want to enrich myself and gain new life experiences now that I've finished my degree. I love trying regional cuisine, and seeing things that I can't see anywhere else; visiting local shops and public spaces. I have a very spontaneous travel style and my ears are always open to local reccomendations.
Interested in Adventure Sports
Interested in Bars
Fluent in English
Fluent in French
Why I'm on Couchsurfing
I grew up in a home where hosting visitors and exchange was common. Many of my best memories are of the people my parents would host. I am travelling the world. I love meeting new people and having authentic experiences, and Couchsurfing is a great way to do that and more. Living alone is no way to live, and I travel with the same mindset. I love meeting locals who can share the little known secrets of the places I visit; hidden gems, off the beaten path both urban and in the great outdoors. Why travel if you can only scratch the surface, no?
Music, Movies, and Books
I can vibe to just about anything, and generally find a new favorite genre once a month; PLEASE share your music with me; I love being exposed to new artists and styles of music. I really like Medieval Fantasy. My favorite book series is definitely either the Stormlight Archives (by Brandon Sanderson), or the Inheritance Cycle (by Christopher Paolini). If I had to pick a favorite movie, it's probably the Princess Bride. Kinda basic, but it's a classic and has heavily shaped my sense of humor.
One Amazing Thing I've Done
I sailed on a traditional wooden tallship from the north tip of Vancouver Island all the way down to Victoria. We were a crew of ~35 on a 45m schooner. Probably some of the best memories of my life were made on that trip. The trip lasted ten days and there are places I visited that are truly hidden gems: only accessible by boat.
Teach, Learn, Share
I can teach the ways of low impact hiking/camping, and would love to learn about big city life. I love sharing my favorite recipes and cooking techniques. I'm still young, but I have my share of tales. I love to exchange stories and learn about cultural differences. You can learn all about my travels on Polarsteps: https://polarsteps.com/benkarstad
What I Can Share With Hosts
I am an amateur photographer and a passionate cook, both skills that I gladly share. If you want help in the kitchen, I am happy to provide it. I can make sure not to bring anything into the house that violates your dietary restrictions/choices, just let me know in advance. I am a non-smoker, I have no pets. I am tidy and hygenic.
My Interests
I'm all about the outdoors, but I also really enjoy urban life, the bustling city environment is full of opportunities. Above all, I love new experiences; even if I'm sure I won't like something, I will still try it at least once.