ABOUT ME

Fun loving, open-hearted, easy going, down to earth, pragmatic. I enjoy good conversations, learning about other cultures and histories. I'm adventurous, love being a tourist in my own town, and will gladly be spontaneous and go exploring with you. I was born a vegetarian and I've never met a zucchini or leaf of spinach I didn't love. I'm an entrepreneur and I build websites for a living. I'm basically a sweat-bearded bundle of awesomeness ;-)

PHILOSOPHY

I was raised with both eastern and western philosophies, and my approach to life is spiritual and somewhat esoteric. I'm pragmatic, philosophical, intellectual, chill, non-judgmental, and love learning about other cultures and beliefs. I lead with my heart, and give really awesome hugs [voted "Best Hugs in Portland" three times running].

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I have been living the nomadic lifestyle since September '09. I've been traveling to different towns, cities and national parks around the USA and parts of Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. My quest is about meeting new people, learning their cultures and philosophies, see some really beautiful breathtaking sights, and be guided to new experiences that will open my eyes, heart and soul. This as much of a journey on the outside as it is on the inside.

As a guest:
• I'm very low-maintenance, tidy and clean, and strive to be an easy guest. I'm very independent and flexible with most arrangements.
• I'm culturally curious, love engaging in interesting conversation, and getting to know people and their lifestyles.
• I am not a "partier" but I enjoy having a good time. I'm far more interested in seeing tourist attractions, museums, going for a hike, or some other outdoor activity.
• I love the social aspect of CSing and prefer it over staying in a hotel which is kind of solitary. It's also nice to travel on a budget because I can "stretch" my money further.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

Over the last few years, I've had the pleasure of hosting people, staying with even more people, and have met other great CSers to go adventuring with wherever I am. I've stayed with plenty of people both on and off CS. I love CS because it's a great way to connect with locals and get a great feel for the place.

Interests

I'm a fan of: forests, mountains, rivers, the beach, deserts, thunderstorms and lightning, hiking, camping, ultimate frisbee, disc golf, hot springs, swimming in other people's pools and hot tubs, affectionate cats, cool dogs, colorful lizards, attempting to speak Spanish, the smell of burning wood (piñon), seeing other people smile, the smell of vanilla, homemade apple jam, humming like a tibetan monk in enclosed spaces, big loving hugs, giving and receiving great massages, watching big birds coast in the wind, magical moments late at night, relaxed mornings, siestas, creating stuff, learning to be more ambidextrous, meditating and doing yoga cuz it feels awesome.

Music, Movies, and Books

I love most kinds of music, and particularly get into Folk, Lounge, Electronic, Rock and HipHop. I don't play any instruments, but would one day love to learn. But I can do some pretty awesome throat singing (tuning), especially when in an enclosed space that has good acoustics. It kind of sounds like a cross between a didgeridoo and a tibetan monk.

Movies -- most films that everyone else likes. Not into horror films, and I have to be in a special mood for documentaries or artsy films.

Book favorites: Shogun, Cloud of Sparrows, Captain Blood, Tarzan, Shantaram, A Walk in the Woods (about hiking the Appalachian Trail), Way of the Superior Man, Ender's Game, Snow Crash, The 7th Son. I like mostly sci-fi, fantasy, historical fiction, and personal development.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Hiked across glaciers in Alaska, swam naked in the oceans of the Caribbean, pilgrimaged to shrines and temples in northern India, snorkeled in cenotes and climbed pyramids in the Yucatan, meditated at the edge of a lake at 14,000 feet.

Teach, Learn, Share

I've got computer skills and will happy to do computer training or tuning in exchange for surfing accommodations. I am a teacher of Kundalini yoga and meditation.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can cook delicious vegetarian meals, and tidy up around the house. I enjoy working with my hands in the dirt, and will gladly help you with your garden (since I don't have one of my own).

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Costa Rica, India, Mexico, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin (French part)

Countries I’ve Lived In

Costa Rica, India, United States

• 

•