Hi! My name is Gillian, I'm from New Jersey in the US. I grew up about 20 minutes from New York City and have been itching to see other parts of the world! I graduated with a degree in Digital Design, and have a strong interest in culture and nature.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I love traveling, but I am a girl on a budget! I've been working as soon as I could, saving up for a trip around the world. I love learning about other cultures, and getting experiences in cities that only the locals could recommend. I want to have authentic experiences in the cities I'm visiting, and what better way than to couch surf!

Interests

I love yoga, I try to practice every day. Otherwise, I can't get enough of nature. Hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, anything I can do to get outside makes my day that much better. I love art and music, especially festivals with unique and home-made things! I'll try just about any food (oxe tongue and shark are 2 of the strangest yet!) and I'm a sucker for a good beer or glass of wine.

• wildlife
• arts
• culture
• design
• digital design
• festivals
• dining
• wine
• beer
• yoga
• traveling
• music
• hiking
• kayaking

Music, Movies, and Books

I mostly listen to indie, classic rock and "hippie music" as my boyfriend likes to call it. I'll watch just about anything and I love fiction. I've read so many books I've lost count! One of my favorite ways of passing time. Nothing beats your own imagination.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to travel to Hawaii on a service trip with my sorority. We worked with locals and helped with farming and the preservation of native wildlife on the island. The experience changed me. I love community service and giving back, and I was so humbled by the graciousness of the people we worked with. I would do this in every country if I could afford it!!

Teach, Learn, Share

I know a lot about design, and am learning a lot about travel. I know little facts and tidbits about the most random things, because I love to learn just about anything. I am a very open person, I don't hold much back. If there was one thing I would say I have a lot to share, it would be love. I give everything I can to everyone I can, I hate seeing people upset and I will go to the ends of the earth for the people I care about.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Most of my friends say I have a unique outlook on life. I try to bring positive vibes with me everywhere I go, and I am always down for an adventure. I am kind of a free spirit, and try to encourage others to see the light in their lives. I'm hoping that my experience can help enlighten others about the incredible things they have going on in their lives, and how their generosity can affect other people in an incredibly powerful way.

Countries I’ve Visited

Barbados, Italy, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Spain, Virgin Islands, U.S.

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States