Hi! I'm a friendly and respectful traveler who loves discovering new cultures through local experiences rather than typical tourist routes. I’m easygoing, tidy, and always grateful for any hospitality.

I enjoy meaningful conversations, sharing stories, and learning how people live in different parts of the world. I believe traveling is about connection, not just places. I live in Russian countryside with my big family and I'm against the war.

I'm the artist based on the field of photography (mostly portraits and self-portraits) and video. You can see my work here - https://alenazhandarova.com/ and here - https://www.instagram.com/alenavzhandarova/

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I’m here to meet locals, experience authentic culture, and make real human connections. Staying with hosts helps me understand a place much deeper than staying in hotels. I appreciate the spirit of sharing and trust in this community and I always try to give back kindness, good vibes, and respect.

I’m coming to Kyoto in 14-24 of May 2026 to participate in an intensive photobook workshop (https://reminders-project.org/en/photobookasobject2026en/) by Reminders Photography Stronghold where I’ll be developing an art book project. The program is very immersive and runs for long days, so having a calm and welcoming place / places to stay would mean a lot and truly support my creative process.

Interests

What I love most in life is walking on foot - this is how I explore the world. I like to think about spirituality and the non-randomness of everything that happens to us. I love creating, trying new things and, of course, travel.

• culture
• photography
• art
• travelling
• spirituality

Music, Movies, and Books

I really like silence, it's my basic need. I listen to the music, but very rarely.
I prefer not to watch horror or drama movies because I experience them deeply.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I was selected for the art residency in Ithaca, Greece in Septeber 2025 where I made a project about Odysseus.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share stories from my travels and artistic practice, cook something simple from my culture, and create a warm, respectful atmosphere at home. I’m also happy to exchange ideas, listen, help with small tasks, or simply share tea and conversation. I value quiet coexistence as much as meaningful dialogue, and I always treat someone’s home with care and gratitude.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Russian Federation, Spain, United States