Hi everyone! I can describe myself in different ways - a coach, a marketer, a writer, an amateur musician (i love to sing and play guitar), a salsa dancer, a photographer, a fluent speaker of English and French, and even a former top manager)) But essentially - I am a dreamer and a communicator. I believe that most people are kind, and I love talking to people, creating bonds between cultures and capturing the beauty around.

I grew up in a family of biology scientists but chose to study linguistics and later marketing and coaching. For a very big part of my life I worked for a Danish company and till now appreciate Scandinavian business culture. My values are: honesty, authenticity, respect, curiosity, creativity and kindness.

Instagram: @elena_azores_photographer

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm quite new to Couchsurfing and very excited to join this great team. I learned about Couchsurfing from a friend of mine who travelled in Africa and Asia this way. I heard her telling me how many kind and caring people she met on the way. I'm looking forward to meeting great people from all over the world, and to have warm meaningful conversations.

Traveling to me is about genuine curiosity and respect to local people their cultures.

Interests

• writing
• singing
• photography
• salsa dancing
• music
• swimming
• nature
• learning languages
• waterfalls
• deep conversations
• self-development
• art therapy
• ted talks
• guitar playing

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Soul, jazz, rock, U2, Keane, Muse, Teddy Swims, Adele, Phil Collins, Sting, Lara Fabian, Green Day, Boyce Avenue, Sauti Sol, Richard Bona. I also love authentic African music (especially from East Africa).
Movies: Arrival (2016), The Braids, Avatar, Cloud atlas, Mr Nobody, Parasites, Back to the Future, the Descendants

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

In 2021, I quit my serious corporate job and left for Africa with a one-way ticket. I traveled there to explore the continent and to rediscover myself. This experience gave birth to my book "Colours of Africa: painting a new self".

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can tell you great stories from my travels around the world (been to 43 countries). Besides, as a coach, I can help you formulate your life goals (and how to reach them) and your business goals, too.
Currently I am studying for an art therapy certificate - will be happy to help with exercises for your kids but also for adults and guests!
I can make good photos - for you (portraits for example) or your home or business.
I am a writer - so I can write texts for your social media or websites in English or Russian.
I will be happy to sing songs to you too!

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Cambodia, China, Denmark, England, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Morocco, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

China, Russian Federation, Tanzania