Hey there! I'm Damien, a 38-year-old travel enthusiast with an insatiable curiosity for life and a constant smile on my face. As a dreamer and adventurer at heart, I have a passion for exploring new places, immersing myself in different cultures, and making meaningful connections with people along the way.

Traveling, for me, is about much more than just ticking destinations off a list. It's about learning from others, growing as a person, and creating unforgettable memories. That's why I'm thrilled to be a part of the Couchsurfing community, where I can contribute to this global network of like-minded individuals who share a love for discovery and connection.

I pride myself on being respectful, calm, and open-minded, which I believe are essential qualities when it comes to fostering genuine friendships and experiencing the world through the eyes of others. I truly enjoy listening to people's stories and sharing my own, as we learn and grow together.

In my free time, you'll likely find me hiking in the great outdoors, trying my hand at new recipes, or indulging in a good book. I am always up for new adventures, whether it's exploring a hidden gem in a bustling city or trekking through remote wilderness.

By opening up my home and heart to fellow Couchsurfers, I hope to create lasting memories and friendships that enrich both our lives. If you're looking for a friendly, curious, and open-minded host who's eager to share his home, stories, and time, look no further! Let's embark on this amazing journey together and make the world a little bit smaller, one couch at a time.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on Couchsurfing because I truly believe in the power of connecting with people from different backgrounds and cultures to enrich our lives and broaden our perspectives. This platform offers a unique opportunity to not only explore new places but also form genuine friendships and create lasting memories with fellow travelers and locals alike.

Couchsurfing allows me to share my passion for travel, exchange stories, learn from others, and make meaningful connections that go beyond just being tourists or hosts. It fosters a sense of belonging within a global community that values openness, respect, and the spirit of adventure.

By being a part of Couchsurfing, I aim to contribute to this vibrant network of like-minded individuals and create a positive impact on both my own life and the lives of those I meet along the way. Together, we can make the world a smaller, friendlier place, one couch at a time.

Interests

I'm passionate about long-term travel, which allows me to fully immerse myself in the places I visit and form lasting connections. As a professional cook, I enjoy experimenting with flavors and learning about local cuisines. I have a voracious appetite for knowledge, and I love exploring various topics, from outdoor activities to cutting-edge technology like generative AI.

Some of my favorite outdoor pursuits include bikepacking and hammock camping, which let me experience nature in unique and exciting ways. I'm also an avid Reddit user, where I stay updated on the latest trends and engage with like-minded individuals.

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: My taste in music is diverse and ever-evolving, ranging from classic rock and indie folk to electronic beats and world music. I enjoy discovering new artists and genres, especially when they're tied to the local cultures of the places I visit. Some of my all-time favorite bands and musicians include Radiohead, Nirvana, and Queen.

Books: I have a deep appreciation for literature and am always on the lookout for my next great read. My favorite genres include travel memoirs, historical fiction, and thought-provoking non-fiction. A few of my favorite books are "Shantaram" by Gregory David Roberts, "Sapiens" by Yuval Noah Harari, and "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer.

Movies: As a film enthusiast, I enjoy a wide variety of movies, from thought-provoking dramas and mind-bending sci-fi to inspiring documentaries and classic comedies. Some of my all-time favorites include "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," "Interstellar," "Almodovar's movies" "Stephen Spielberg's movies" "Miyazaki's animated movies" and "Good will hunting."

Sharing and discussing our favorite music, books, and movies is a great way to connect with others on Couchsurfing, as it allows us to discover new favorites and gain insights into different cultures and perspectives.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Living as an expat in various corners of the world has been an incredible journey filled with countless unforgettable moments. Each destination, from Oxford in England and Tenerife and Malaga in Spain, to Galway in Ireland, Melbourne in Australia, and Wellington in New Zealand, Indian subcontinent, Middle East , Kampala in Uganda, Choachí in Colombia has offered a unique perspective on life, culture, and human connection. These experiences have allowed me to dive deep into local customs, foster lasting friendships, and broaden my understanding of the vibrant tapestry that makes up our global community.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach: As a passionate traveler with a wealth of experience on long-term journeys across the globe and bikepacking around Europe, I'm thrilled to impart my knowledge on crafting the perfect adventure. From meticulous planning and selecting the most scenic routes to uncovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of global cultures, I can guide you through the essentials of creating unforgettable experiences.

By adopting a minimalist and ultralight approach, you can fully embrace the freedom and joy of travel while making meaningful connections with people from all walks of life. I'm also eager to share the life-changing practice of Vipassana meditation, which has enriched my own journey with mindfulness and inner balance.

As a lifelong student of life, I believe that every encounter offers an opportunity for growth and discovery. By sharing my passion for exploration and adventure, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own transformative journeys and embrace the endless possibilities that life has to offer.

Learn: I'm always excited to learn from others, whether it's about their unique travel experiences, local customs, or hobbies. I'd love to gain new perspectives, techniques, and wisdom from the Couchsurfing community, as I believe there's always room for growth and self-improvement.

Share: I'm a firm believer in the quote, "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Let's share our stories of pushing boundaries, overcoming challenges, and stepping out of our comfort zones. By doing so, we can inspire one another to live life to the fullest and continue on a path of personal growth and adventure.

What I Can Share with Hosts

As a guest, I am committed to being respectful, clean, and considerate of your home and your time. I appreciate the opportunity to stay with you and would love to contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience for both of us.

1_Cultural exchange: I'm eager to share my own travel stories, experiences, and insights into my culture while also learning about yours. Engaging in open conversations and sharing perspectives can lead to a more enriching experience for both parties.

2_Cooking: With my background in professional cooking, I'd be more than happy to treat you to a delicious meal or even teach you a new recipe from my culinary repertoire. Cooking together can be a fun and interactive way to bond and share our love for food.

3_Local exploration: As an adventurous traveler, I'd be delighted to join you in exploring your city or town, whether that means trying out local activities, visiting hidden gems, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk together.

4_Practical assistance: I'm always willing to lend a helping hand with any chores, errands, or projects you may have around the house. My goal is to be a helpful and considerate guest, leaving a positive impact on your space.

By offering these experiences and assistance, I hope to create a meaningful connection and ensure a memorable stay for both of us, while also expressing my gratitude for your hospitality.

Countries I’ve Visited

Albania, Australia, Austria, Belize, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Kosovo, Laos, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Macedonia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palestine, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Romania, Rwanda, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Swaziland, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, United Kingdom, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, Colombia, France, Greece, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Spain, Thailand, Uganda, United Kingdom

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